Kenyans are increasingly relying on mobile credit to meet basic needs, with new data showing that overdraft borrowing through Fuliza has reached a record Sh1.4 trillion.
The figures, highlighted in the latest report by Safaricom, underscore the growing financial pressure facing households across the country.
According to the report, total disbursements through Fuliza crossed the Sh1 trillion mark for the first time in the year ending March 2026.
This surge reflects a sharp rise in demand for short-term credit, driven largely by the high cost of living and stagnant incomes.
The data indicates that more than 17 million Kenyans are now using the service, a significant jump compared to previous years.
The number of users has expanded as more individuals turn to overdraft facilities to bridge gaps in daily expenses, including food, rent, school fees, and medical bills.
At the same time, repayments have also risen, suggesting that while users are borrowing more, many remain committed to clearing their balances.
However, analysts warn that the increasing dependence on mobile loans signals deeper economic vulnerabilities, particularly among low- and middle-income households.
Revenue generated from Fuliza has also grown substantially, highlighting its importance to Safaricom’s financial performance.
The service has become a key income stream for the telecom giant, even as concerns emerge about the long-term sustainability of such borrowing patterns.
Economists note that the trend reflects a shift in how Kenyans manage liquidity, with digital lending platforms becoming a primary fallback during financial stress.
They caution that without broader economic improvements, reliance on overdraft facilities could deepen household debt levels.
The latest figures paint a picture of resilience among consumers, but also raise questions about affordability and financial stability in a challenging economic environment.