The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has licensed an additional 25 Digital Credit Providers (DCPs), bringing the total number of licensed digital lenders in the country to 252.
In a statement on Tuesday, July 14, CBK said the licences were granted under Section 59(2) of the Central Bank of Kenya Act.
“The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) announces the licensing of an additional 25 Digital Credit Providers (DCPs). This is pursuant to Section 59(2) of the Central Bank of Kenya Act (CBK Act).
“This brings the number of licensed DCPs to 252, following the licensing of 32 DCPs announced in April 2026,” read the statement in part.
The regulator noted that it has received more than 800 applications from digital credit providers since March 2022 and has been working closely with applicants to ensure they meet the regulatory requirements before receiving approval.
CBK explained that the review process focuses on applicants’ business models, consumer protection measures, and the fitness and propriety of proposed shareholders, directors and management.
“The focus of the engagements with DCPs has been inter alia on business models, consumer protection and the fitness and propriety of proposed shareholders, directors and management.
“This is to ensure adherence to the relevant laws and, importantly, that the interests of customers are safeguarded. We acknowledge the efforts of the applicants and the support of other regulators and agencies in this process,” CBK stated.
The regulator added that digital credit providers primarily offer loans through digital platforms, including Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) channels.
CBK revealed that, as of May 2026, licensed digital lenders had issued more than 8.37 million loans valued at approximately Ksh150.56 billion, underscoring the sector’s growing role in expanding access to credit.
The bank said some applicants are still undergoing the licensing process, with many awaiting the submission of additional documentation. It urged them to submit the outstanding requirements promptly to facilitate completion of the review process.
CBK also encouraged members of the public to report any unregulated digital credit providers through its official email, saying the move is part of ongoing efforts to protect consumers.
