November 1, 2025

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Co-op Bank Enters Digital Credit Market with New Kamilisha Overdraft

Cooperative Bank of Kenya's Expansion to Imaara Mall Signals Growth and Accessibility

Cooperative Bank of Kenya's Expansion to Imaara Mall Signals Growth and Accessibility

The Co-operative Bank of Kenya has introduced a new unsecured digital overdraft facility called “Kamilisha”, positioning itself to compete closely with Equity Bank Kenya’s “Boostika” and Safaricom’s “Fuliza” services. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.

According to the bank, the new product allows individuals and businesses to complete transactions even when their account balance is insufficient.

The overdraft limit is up to KSh 100,000, enabling payment of bills, transfers, or purchases despite a shortfall. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.

The cost structure for Kamilisha includes a one-time access fee of 2% on the borrowed amount, a daily maintenance fee of 0.2% on the outstanding balance, and a monthly credit-life insurance premium of 0.034%.

A Co-op Bank branch.

The access cost is further subject to a 20% excise tax. For example, a customer overdrawing KSh 1,000 could incur approximately KSh 84.34 in charges if the full amount is outstanding for a month, corresponding to an effective cost of credit of about 8.43% per month. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.

The bank’s move is seen as strategically timed: the digital credit market in Kenya has been rapidly expanding, with services like Fuliza and Boostika gaining wide adoption. By launching Kamilisha,

Co-operative Bank aims to tap into the gap where customers need short-term, flexible overdraft support and diversify its product offerings. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.