The purpose of a CRB is to help lenders assess the creditworthiness of borrowers, thereby promoting responsible lending and reducing default risks in the financial system.
Available CRBs in Zambia
1. TransUnion Zambia
- The largest and most established CRB in Zambia.
- Provides credit reports, scores, and related analytics to banks, microfinance institutions, mobile lenders, and other financial entities.
- Also allows individuals to check their own credit reports.
2. Compuscan Zambia (now Experian Zambia)
- Offers credit bureau services, risk management tools, and analytics to financial institutions.
- Assists lenders in evaluating loan applications based on borrowers’ historical credit behavior.
Functions of CRBs
- Collect data from banks, microfinance institutions, utility companies, and other creditors.
- Maintain credit histories and assign credit scores.
- Allow financial institutions to check a borrower’s past behavior before approving loans.
- Help consumers track their own credit status and resolve discrepancies.
Why is CRB important
- CRBs improve financial transparency.
- They enable risk-based pricing—borrowers with better credit scores may get lower interest rates.
- They reduce over-indebtedness by allowing lenders to see all current loans.
Legal system
- Regulated by the Bank of Zambia under the Credit Reporting Act.
- Consumers have the right to:
- Access their credit report for free at least once a year.
- Dispute incorrect information.
- Be notified if a negative decision (e.g., loan denial) is based on their credit report.
How to check CRB status on phone
In Zambia, you can easily check your CRB (Credit Reference Bureau) status via phone using TransUnion Menyesha. Here’s how it works:
Check Your CRB Status via USSD
TransUnion offers a convenient USSD service called Menyesha, which lets you view your credit standing quickly:
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Dial *707# on your mobile phone .
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Register using your National ID (NID) when prompted.
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After registration, select the option to get your credit status.
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You’ll receive an SMS with a summary like “good” or “default,” and can request a full report or clearance certificate if needed .
Tip: This is a paid service—charged at standard USSD or premium SMS rates.
Additional Access Methods
If you’d prefer alternatives:
Online portal:- Check your credit score and reports here
- Phone & in-person:
- Call TransUnion at 0211 220 530/36/420500 or 0955 985 107/5307, or visit their Lusaka office to request your report manually
Why Use USSD?
- Instant and accessible on any mobile phone—no internet needed.
- A quick way to check if you're in good standing before applying for loans.
- Helps you catch any negative marks early and consider ordering a full report or clearance.
Next Steps
- If status shows default, follow prompts to request a credit report or clearance certificate.
- If status is good, you’re in a strong position—but it's still wise to download your full credit report annually to check for errors.
To create a credit score dispute you need to be cleared by writing a letter to the CRB.
