Money Market Funds (MMFs) have become a go-to investment option for Kenyans looking to grow their savings with low risk and easy access to funds. With inflation at 2.8% in November 2024 (CIC Kenya) and bank savings rates averaging 3-5%, MMFs offer higher returns—often exceeding 14% annually—making them a smart choice for both new and seasoned investors. What makes them even more appealing in 2025 is their accessibility, with some requiring as little as KSh 100 to start. This article lists the top 10 MMFs in Kenya with the lowest minimum investments, based on performance data, affordability, and market trends as of March 18, 2025.
Why Choose MMFs with Low Minimum Investments?
MMFs invest in short-term, low-risk securities like Treasury bills, fixed deposits, and commercial paper, regulated by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA). They provide liquidity (withdrawals in 2-4 days), daily interest compounding, and returns that outpace traditional savings accounts. For Kenyans with limited capital, funds with low entry points democratize investing, allowing anyone to start small and scale up. Below, we rank the top 10 MMFs with the lowest initial investments, focusing on yields, accessibility, and investor-friendly features.
Top 10 MMFs with the Lowest Minimum Investments in 2025
1. Etica Money Market Fund
- Minimum Investment: KSh 100
- Top-Ups: KSh 100
- Yield: 15.90% p.a.
- Why It Stands Out: Managed by Etica Capital Ltd., this fund offers the lowest entry point in Kenya alongside a stellar yield. Interest is compounded daily and credited daily, with withdrawals processed in 2-3 days via M-PESA or bank transfer. Perfect for beginners testing the waters.
- How to Join: visit eticacapital.com.
2. Zimele Fixed Income Fund
- Minimum Investment: KSh 100
- Top-Ups: KSh 100
- Yield: 13.22% p.a.
- Why It Stands Out: Zimele’s savings plan keeps costs low and returns steady, targeting government securities and bank deposits. It’s ideal for small savers, with no entry fees and high liquidity.
- How to Join: Visit zimele.co.ke or use their mobile app.
3. Cytonn Money Market Fund
- Minimum Investment: KSh 100
- Top-Ups: KSh 100
- Yield: 16.61% p.a.
- Why It Stands Out: Leading the pack with the highest yield, Cytonn offers unmatched returns for a minimal entry. Its digital platform (*809#) and daily interest updates make it a favorite among tech-savvy investors.
- How to Join: Dial *809# or sign up at cytonn.com.
4. Safaricom Mali Money Market Fund
- Minimum Investment: KSh 100
- Top-Ups: KSh 100–70,000
- Yield: 15.24% p.a.
- Why It Stands Out: Backed by Safaricom, Mali integrates seamlessly with M-PESA, offering instant withdrawals to your wallet. Its 2% management fee is standard, but the convenience is unmatched.
- How to Join: Access via M-PESA app or *334#.
5. ICEA Lion Money Market Fund
- Minimum Investment: KSh 500
- Top-Ups: No minimum
- Yield: 14.00% p.a.
- Why It Stands Out: With no minimum top-up requirement, ICEA Lion offers flexibility. Withdrawals under KSh 10,000 are processed in 24 hours via mobile money, while larger amounts take 3 days to a bank account.
- How to Join: Sign up at icealion.com via DigiTrust.
6. CIC Money Market Fund
- Minimum Investment: KSh 500
- Top-Ups: KSh 500
- Yield: 14.41% p.a.
- Why It Stands Out: CIC tops Kenya’s MMF assets under management (KSh 148 billion in Q1 2024, Vasili Africa) and delivers competitive returns. It’s a secure choice for those prioritizing stability.
- How to Join: Visit ke.cicinsurancegroup.com or dial *720#.
7. Apollo Money Market Fund
- Minimum Investment: KSh 1,000
- Top-Ups: KSh 1,000
- Yield: 15.65% p.a.
- Why It Stands Out: Managed by Apollo Asset Management, this fund balances high returns with a slightly higher entry point. It invests in low-risk assets like T-bills, ensuring capital preservation.
- How to Join: Register at apollo.co.ke.
8. Old Mutual Money Market Fund
- Minimum Investment: KSh 1,000
- Top-Ups: KSh 1,000
- Yield: 14.67% p.a.
- Why It Stands Out: Known for reliability, Old Mutual offers consistent returns and easy tracking via its app. It’s a solid pick for conservative investors.
- How to Join: Visit oldmutual.co.ke or use their mobile platform.
9. Britam Money Market Fund
- Minimum Investment: KSh 1,000
- Top-Ups: KSh 1,000
- Yield: 13.73% p.a.
- Why It Stands Out: Britam’s fund provides quick withdrawals (2-3 days) and a user-friendly app, making it accessible for small investors seeking steady growth.
- How to Join: Sign up at britam.com.
10. Kuza Money Market Fund
- Minimum Investment: KSh 1,000
- Top-Ups: KSh 1,000
- Yield: 15.39% p.a.
- Why It Stands Out: Kuza offers strong returns and invests in diverse short-term securities. Its KSh 1 billion AUM milestone reflects growing trust.
- How to Join: Visit kuzaassetmanagement.com or dial .
Why These Funds Made the List
These MMFs were selected based on:
- Low Entry Barriers: Minimum investments range from KSh 100 to KSh 1,000, far below competitors like GenAfrica (KSh 500,000) or Nabo (KSh 100,000).
- High Yields: All offer double-digit returns, with Cytonn (16.61%) and Etica (15.90%) leading, despite a CBK rate drop to 11.25% in December 2024 (Business Today).
- Accessibility: Digital sign-ups via USSD, apps, or websites cater to Kenya’s mobile-first audience.
- Liquidity: Most process withdrawals in 1-4 days, ensuring funds are available when needed.
Data reflects trends from 2024 adjusted for 2025 based on market conditions like falling T-bill rates.
Tips for Investing in MMFs in 2025
- Start Small: Funds like Etica and Cytonn let you begin with KSh 100—ideal for testing the waters.
- Monitor Rates: Yields fluctuate with CBK policies (e.g., 12% benchmark in October 2024, Vocal Media). Check daily rates on fund websites.
- Diversify: Spread investments across two or three funds (e.g., Cytonn for returns, CIC for stability) to balance risk and reward.
- Watch Fees: Management fees (typically 1.5-2%) slightly reduce net returns—factor them in.
In 2025, Kenya’s MMFs with low minimum investments offer an accessible path to financial growth. Whether you’re drawn to Cytonn’s top-tier 16.61% yield or Etica’s KSh 100 entry, there’s a fund for every budget. Start today—visit the fund websites, dial the USSD codes, or download their apps to open an account. Share this guide with friends looking to invest smartly, and keep checking your chosen fund’s site for the latest rates. Your money deserves to work harder—make it happen!
