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| HELB Chief Executive Officer Geoffrey Monari |
The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has denied viral social media claims that it plans to freeze the bank accounts of over 316,000 loan defaulters, terming the reports as fake and misleading.
In a statement released on Sunday, June 8, HELB clarified that no such measure is being taken, labeling the widely circulated post as a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation among Kenyans. The agency urged beneficiaries and the public to rely on its official communication channels for accurate updates.
“Relax, your bank account is safe! That viral post saying HELB is freezing accounts? Pure fiction & misinformation! Let’s not stress over fake news. Check HELB’s official page for the real tea,” read the statement shared on the board’s verified social media handles.
The false report, which originated from a popular page on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), alleged that HELB was seeking parliamentary approval to freeze the accounts of defaulters in an effort to recover Ksh35 billion in unpaid student loans.
The post sparked widespread concern and debate online, with hundreds of Kenyans expressing anger and disbelief at the purported move.
The controversy comes in the wake of recent remarks by HELB Chief Executive Officer Geoffrey Monari, who told Parliament’s Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education that the board was exploring partnerships with law enforcement to trace loan defaulters, particularly those employed both locally and abroad.
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| File image of HELB offices |
Monari emphasized that the goal was to promote a culture of responsibility and ensure the sustainability of the fund for future students in need.
“This is not just about finance. It's about fostering a sense of responsibility and patriotism among those who have benefited from the funds,” Monari stated. “Compliance ensures we can support future generations from needy backgrounds.”
However, HELB walked back on the CEO’s comments just a day later, asserting that no police officers would be deployed to pursue loan defaulters. Instead, the agency appealed to the goodwill and civic duty of borrowers.
“HELB is not sending law enforcement officers after loan defaulters. This is a call to your heart, not your fear,” the board clarified. “When you repay your loan, you’re not just clearing a debt; you’re giving another Kenyan the chance to learn, grow, and rise.”
The board continues to encourage loan beneficiaries to meet their repayment obligations, emphasizing that their contributions help sustain financial support for future generations of students.
HELB is calling on the public to verify any news or updates through its official website and social media pages to avoid falling victim to misinformation.
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