The Central Bank of Kenya has licensed an additional 25 digital credit providers, increasing the number of licensed firms to 252. The update extends the bank's ongoing authorization of the sector under the Central Bank of Kenya Act and follows the licensing of 32 providers announced in April 2026. The central bank said it has received more than 800 applications since March 2022 and has been reviewing applicants' business models, consumer protection arrangements, and the fitness and propriety of proposed shareholders, directors and management. It said digital credit providers mainly lend through digital channels, including USSD, and that licensed firms had issued 8.37 million loans worth KES 150.56 billion as of May 2026. The licensing and oversight regime was introduced after public concerns about unregulated providers' high charges, unethical debt collection practices and misuse of personal information. Other applicants remain at different stages of the process, largely because required documentation is still outstanding. The Central Bank of Kenya urged those applicants to submit the pending documents so it can complete its reviews.
Central Bank of Kenya2026-07-14
Central Bank of Kenya licenses 25 more digital credit providers, bringing total to 252
The Central Bank of Kenya has licensed 25 additional digital credit providers, taking the total to 252. It said more than 800 applications have been received since March 2022, with reviews focused on business models, consumer protection and the suitability of owners and management. Other applications are still pending, mainly because documentation has not yet been submitted.