Average digital loan jumps to Sh16,341 as more Kenyans borrow for food, fees

In December 2025, Kenyans borrowed an average of 16,341 sh from digital lenders regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), up 17.4% from Sh13,917 a year earlier. The increase indicates a rising reliance on micro-loans for essential needs like food and school fees. The data shows a significant growth in average loan size, reflecting increased dependence on digital borrowing for daily survival.