- 1. Is my money safe? Where does it go?
- Your money goes straight into a highly secure, locked digital wallet. The app does not touch your funds or invest them. It simply holds the weekly e.g. K100 contributions until Friday, when it automatically sends the full K1000 pool directly to that week's designated recipient.
- 2. What happens if someone in the circle pays late?
- Chilimba Circle automatically sends daily WhatsApp and SMS reminders to anyone who hasn't contributed. If a member misses the weekly deadline, the app alerts the group coordinator immediately. To keep the group moving, the coordinator can use the app to swap that person's payout week to the very end of the cycle until they catch up.
- 3. What if someone runs away after getting their e.g. K1000 payout?
- Because this app is designed strictly for close friends and family, you should only invite people you already know, see daily, and trust. To add an extra layer of safety, the app requires all members to register with a verified Mobile Money number linked to their government ID (NRC).
- 4. Are there any hidden fees or charges?
- No. Chilimba Circle is 100% free to download and use while we grow our community. You will not pay any registration fees or platform fees. The only fees you face are the standard, everyday cash-out tariffs charged by your network provider (MTN or Airtel) when you withdraw your money at a mobile money booth.
- 5. Can my relatives with basic "ka-torch" phones join?
- Yes! As long as they have an active Mobile Money number, they can participate. The group leader can add them manually using the app on a smartphone. The relative with the basic phone will receive all their payment receipts, reminders, and payout alerts via standard, free SMS text messages.
- 6. Can we change who gets paid first if there is an emergency?
- Yes. If a family member faces a sudden emergency (like unexpected school fees or a medical bill), the group coordinator can use the "Swap Round" button. If both members agree, their payout weeks can be swapped instantly within the app.