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Lending comparison

M-Shwari vs Tala: which is right for you?

M-Shwari is built into M-PESA, requires no separate app, and rewards consistent savings behaviour with bigger loan limits. Tala is a separate app with a more involved onboarding but bigger limits for established borrowers and more flexible repayment terms.

M-Shwari

lending,*334#

Safaricom and NCBA's in-app savings and credit product, accessed entirely via M-PESA USSD.

Detail page

Tala

lending,851900

A standalone CBK-licensed mobile lender, accessed via the Tala app.

Detail page

Which is better for what

Quick guide by use case. Pick the row that matches your situation.

For a borrower who already saves via M-Shwari

M-Shwari uses your savings track record to underwrite loans, so consistent savers unlock bigger limits faster.

M-Shwari

For a borrower who does not save and just wants credit

Tala does not require savings; its underwriting uses transaction patterns alone.

Tala

For the simplest user experience

M-Shwari is dialled via M-PESA USSD with no separate app or KYC re-entry.

M-Shwari

For longer-tenor loans

Tala offers up to 30-day repayment terms; M-Shwari is locked to 30 days max.

Tala

At a glance

M-ShwariTala
Sectorlendinglending
M-PESA paybill*334#851900
Detail pageViewView

Compare lenders

Compare M-Shwari and Tala live

A small first transfer or loan application is the fastest way to see real all-in cost for your specific case.

TA

Tala

CBK-licensed

Mobile loans up to KES 50,000 in minutes. CBK-licensed.

Visit Tala
BR

Branch

CBK-licensed

Mobile loans with credit-history building. CBK-licensed.

Visit Branch

Common questions

How do I access M-Shwari?

Dial *234# from your Safaricom line and choose the M-Shwari menu. There is no separate app required.

What is Tala's repayment paybill?

Tala's repayment paybill is 851900.

Which has lower interest?

M-Shwari's rate is fixed at 7.5% per 30-day period. Tala's rate is variable but commonly 11-15% for the same tenor, so M-Shwari is typically cheaper.

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