Kenyan fintech startup Leja has achieved a major milestone, processing $2 billion in B2B payments in 2024, less than a year after launching its B2B payments service. The achievement underscores Leja’s role in transforming financial access for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Kenya through innovative, locally tailored solutions.
Founded in 2021, Leja helps MSMEs move from traditional pen-and-paper bookkeeping to digital recordkeeping, integrating seamlessly with mobile money platforms. The Leja app enables businesses to reduce supplier payment fees, track sales, and access long-term loans—critical tools for driving growth and efficiency in underserved markets.
The company’s rapid growth reflects a 30% month-over-month increase in adoption and a 300% surge in B2B transactions within the past year, with over 1.4 million MSMEs onboarded since its inception. Notably, nearly 60% of Leja’s users are women and youth-led businesses, addressing a traditionally underserved demographic.
Leja’s Co-Founder and CEO, Tekwane Mwendwa, highlighted the transformative impact of the app. “The rapid adoption of the Leja app over the past year highlights the power of local solutions tailored to underserved markets. We’re proud to address the challenges MSMEs face, including limited access to affordable payment options and working capital financing. Many MSMEs previously relied on costly and inconvenient methods like cash, which impacted their operations.”
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Currently, only 10% of Leja’s users utilize its B2B payment feature, but the company aims to grow this to 50%, unlocking significant transaction volumes and revenue potential. On the lending side, Leja plans to expand its reach from 5% to 20% by partnering with financial institutions and NGOs to bridge the MSME credit gap.
Looking ahead, Leja plans to expand into two additional East African markets by Q2 2025, leveraging its data-driven credit scoring and payment solutions to further drive financial inclusion.
“Our mission is to close the substantial credit gap that hinders MSME growth, enabling micro-SMEs across Africa to thrive,” Mwendwa stated. “We’re committed to delivering accessible and scalable solutions while providing strong returns for our investors.”
With its innovative approach and ambitious goals, Leja is poised to continue reshaping financial access for MSMEs, empowering them to become significant drivers of economic growth in Africa.
