UBA Kenya (United Bank for Africa) Loans, Eligibility & Rates

UBA Kenya offers a range of tailored loans for individuals and businesses, focusing on quick access, competitive terms, and minimal security for short-term needs.

1. Unsecured Short Term Overdraft

This product suits individuals needing quick cash without collateral, ideal for covering short-term gaps like emergencies or payroll. Maximum limit stands at KES 2 million per customer with a revolving tenor of up to 30 days and turnaround time (TAT) of 14 days. Existing UBA customers qualify after three months of account activity, while new clients need one month plus 12 months of certified bank statements from elsewhere—no security required, making it accessible for salaried professionals in Nairobi.​

Rates remain competitive and tied to market conditions, often floating based on the Central Bank of Kenya's benchmark. Businesses in facility management or cleaning services, common in Kenya's service sector, frequently use this for operational cash flow. Apply via branch or app for swift approval, emphasizing steady income proof.

2. Short-Term Business Loan

Designed for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), this loan addresses working capital needs like inventory or repairs in property maintenance. Applicants must hold a UBA account for at least one month, with new clients submitting 12 months of certified statements. It supports Kenya's vibrant SME landscape, from pest control firms to appliance repair shops in Nairobi County.​

Terms feature flexible repayment aligned with business cycles, with rates competitively priced against peers like KCB or Equity Bank. No heavy collateral for smaller limits, focusing on cash flow viability. This makes it popular for seasonal demands in cleaning or security services.

3. Personal Loan - Direct (Check-off)

Targeted at civil servants whose salaries process outside UBA, this check-off loan simplifies payroll deductions for reliability. Key eligibility includes confirmed employment, valid Kenyan ID, recent payslips, and a completed application form—age typically 21-60 years. Fast processing and competitive interest rates appeal to public sector workers funding home repairs or education.

Repayment stretches up to 48 months, with equity contribution sometimes required based on amount. It's collateral-free for most, prioritizing salary stability over assets. In Kenya's context, this aids middle-income earners in facility-related personal upgrades, like ventilation systems or electrical fixes.

4. Long-Term Loans

Suited for large corporates, multinationals, and government entities, these loans fund expansions or infrastructure in sectors like real estate maintenance. Eligibility demands strong financials, audited accounts, and business track record; multi-jurisdiction support fits cross-border firms. Repayment extends to seven years in multiple currencies, with options like bridge financing or syndications.​

Rates are negotiated competitively, often lower for high-volume clients, plus extras like cash management. Kenyan businesses in property services leverage this for scaling pest control or repair operations across counties.

5. Asset Finance Loan

This finances purchases like vehicles or equipment, using the asset as collateral—perfect for service providers buying cleaning machines or repair tools. Terms include 3-24 months tenor, maximum KES 1.395 million (about $12,500), with interest on accessed amount only. Salaried applicants need steady income proof; quick TAT suits urgent needs.​

Risk-based pricing keeps costs low for low-risk borrowers, common in Nairobi's appliance repair market. It supports entrepreneurship by lowering entry barriers for tools safe for health-focused cleaning.

Application Process

Start by visiting ubakenya.com or a Nairobi branch like the Westlands one. Download forms online, gather ID, payslips, statements, and employer letter. For salary-domiciled accounts, approval speeds up; digital apps via Leo Chatbot or mobile banking accelerate unsecured options. TAT varies: 14 days for overdrafts, longer for secured.

Credit Reference Bureau (CRB) checks are standard; clear status boosts chances. Fees include 1% management for some, plus insurance on assets.

Interest Rates and Fees

UBA Kenya's rates float with market changes, typically 13-20% per annum for personal loans, lower for business (10-16%). Overdrafts tie to CBR + margin (around 12-15%). No hidden charges beyond arrangement (1-2%) and ledger fees. Compare via CBK site; UBA often undercuts for loyal clients.

Eligibility Tips for Kenyans

Prioritize six months' good banking history. Self-employed need turnover proof; businesses, six months' statements. Age 21+, Kenyan resident or citizen. Avoid defaults via pesalink repayments. Tailor to needs: overdraft for quick cash, long-term for growth.

Why Choose UBA Kenya Loans?

Pan-African reach ensures stability, with Leo AI for 24/7 queries. Flexible for service industries—cleaning firms fund fleets, repair shops buy diagnostics. Competitive edges include no-security options and multi-currency for imports. In February 2026's economy, with inflation steady, UBA supports Nairobi's property maintenance boom.

Digital integration via app cuts visits; diaspora remittances qualify some. Risks like rate hikes exist, but fixed portions mitigate. Consult advisors for personalized fits, ensuring loans boost—not burden—finances.