Safaricom Clarifies Why Some M-Pesa Users Have Zero Fuliza Limit
Safaricom explains why frequent M-Pesa users may still have zero Fuliza limits and how repayment and credit scoring affect eligibility.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 20, 2026
2 min read
Many Kenyans rely on Fuliza as a financial backup when their M-Pesa balance falls short. However, some regular M-Pesa users find their Fuliza limit remains at zero, raising questions about eligibility criteria.
Understanding the Zero Fuliza Limit
Safaricom responded to a customer query regarding a zero Fuliza limit despite consistent M-Pesa usage and a clean record. The telecom operator explained that Fuliza credit limits are determined by an automated scoring system that evaluates multiple factors beyond transaction frequency.
Frequent M-Pesa transactions alone do not guarantee access to a Fuliza overdraft. The exact formula for credit scoring is not publicly disclosed, but it incorporates:
- Customer’s usage of Safaricom services
- Repayment history of credit products
- Duration of M-Pesa usage
Steps to Refresh Fuliza Limit
Customers with no available Fuliza limit can attempt to refresh their status by dialing *334#, choosing option 00, then selecting Refresh my limit. However, this does not promise an increase, as the final decision depends on the automated credit assessment.
Safaricom advises users to continue transacting on M-Pesa and repaying any outstanding loans promptly to improve their credit profile.
Impact of Other Safaricom Loans
Repayment behaviour on other Safaricom credit products, such as Okoa Jahazi, also influences Fuliza eligibility. Timely loan repayments enhance the chances of obtaining a Fuliza limit, though the specific weighting of these factors remains undisclosed.
In summary, customers should maintain regular M-Pesa activity, manage all Safaricom credit repayments responsibly, and allow the automated system to reassess their eligibility over time.
