The past decade has seen an increase in loan lending apps in Kenya. A simple google search lists over 50 such apps, alongside numerous news of policy violations, data breaches, trauma, humiliation and debt-shaming. In countries where most are locked out of bank loans, the allure of unregulated lenders promising instant unsecured loans with flexible repayment plans either for emergencies or business investments is hard to pass on. Upon installation, access to users’ private information e.g contacts, messages and locations supposedly used to assess loan eligibility, end up getting exploited by rogue lenders when borrowers default, with disastrous mental and social consequences.

Therein lies the problem. We are seeking to raise social media awareness on the need for regulation in the East African region. This will be done by making consumers aware of acts of government e.g Kenya’s THE DATA PROTECTION ACT. No. 24 of 2019, and what it stipulates as regards user data and its processing by third parties. Moreover, shining a spotlight on this matter may save customers the mental anguish and humiliation associated with their practices.

After the session we will set up an online platform where aggrieved citizens can share their experiences with these lenders, sharing proof of policy violations that could then be used as evidence in class action suits should the need arise. Moreover, participants could consent to keeping in touch with the cause and monitoring the impact the session will have.