The Financial Inclusion Fund has introduced a new method for Hustler Fund borrowers to repay their loans using Safaricom Bonga Points. This initiative, launched in July 2026, aims to improve loan recovery rates amid reduced government funding.

Background

As of March 2026, the Hustler Fund faced a default rate of 15%, amounting to approximately Ksh12.5 billion. With government allocations shrinking from Ksh20 billion at inception to just Ksh300 million in the 2025/26 financial year, the fund increasingly depends on repayments to sustain operations.

How the Bonga Points Repayment Works

Safaricom customers collectively hold Bonga Points valued at Ksh3.6 billion, many of which remain unused. By converting these points, borrowers can reduce their loan balances without needing cash.

The current conversion rate is five Bonga Points to one Kenyan shilling, meaning about 2,500 points can clear a Ksh500 loan.

Repayment Steps

  • Dial *254# on your Safaricom line.
  • Select the Hustler Fund menu, then Personal Loan.
  • Choose Repay Loan, then Pay for Self or Pay for Other.
  • Select Bonga Points as the payment option.
  • Review your outstanding balance and available Bonga Points.
  • Enter the repayment amount within your points’ value.
  • Confirm and enter your M-Pesa PIN to complete the transaction.

After payment, you will receive an SMS confirmation with your updated loan balance.

Important Considerations

  • Ensure you have enough Bonga Points to cover the repayment amount.
  • Points used must belong to the Safaricom line performing the transaction.
  • Keep track of your remaining points for future use.
  • Consistent repayments still influence eligibility for higher loan limits.

Benefits for Borrowers and the Fund

This option helps borrowers convert everyday phone usage into loan repayments, easing the burden of cash repayments on tight days. For the fund, it introduces a practical recovery channel that supports sustainability amid reduced government support.

Within the first week of rollout, the Bonga Points repayment option recovered Ksh3 million.

If you have an outstanding Hustler Fund loan and unused Bonga Points, dial *254# to access this convenient repayment method and reduce your loan balance instantly.