Introduction
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has licensed 29 more digital credit providers (DCPs), expanding the pool of regulated digital credit providers in Kenya to 281. The regulator announced the approvals in a press release dated September 30, 2026.
The new licences follow 25 approvals that CBK announced in July 2026. The latest round was issued under Section 59(2) of the Central Bank of Kenya Act.
Licensing of Digital Credit Providers in Kenya Reaches 281
CBK has received more than 900 applications since the licensing regime began in March 2022. Of these, 281 have now been licensed.
The regulator says it has worked closely with applicants throughout the review process. It also acknowledged the support of other regulators and agencies in assessing the applications.
Many applicants remain in the pipeline. According to CBK, these are at different stages of review, and most are waiting to submit required documentation.
What CBK Examines Before Granting a Licence
CBK’s engagements with applicants have focused on three areas: business models, consumer protection, and the fitness and propriety of proposed shareholders, directors and management.
The regulator states that these reviews are meant to ensure compliance with the relevant laws. They are also meant to protect the interests of customers.
CBK has previously explained why it began licensing and supervising DCPs. The regime followed public concerns about predatory practices by unregulated lenders. Those concerns centred on high borrowing costs, unethical debt collection practices, and the abuse of personal information.
Ksh 165.1 Billion in Loans Issued by Licensed DCPs
Licensed DCPs have built a substantial lending book. As of August 2026, they had granted 9,596,509 loans valued at Ksh 165.1 billion, according to CBK.
These lenders operate mainly through digital channels, including Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) codes. Their products cover education loans, development loans, short-term personal loans, asset financing and business loans.
This range shows that licensed digital lenders serve both consumer and business borrowing needs, not only short-term personal credit.
Public Reporting of Unregulated Lenders
CBK continues to invite the public to report unregulated DCPs. Reports can be sent to the regulator at dcps@centralbank.go.ke.
This channel forms part of CBK’s wider effort to separate licensed operators from lenders operating outside the regulatory framework.
CBK has urged applicants still under review to submit their outstanding documentation promptly. The regulator says this will allow it to complete its assessment of the remaining applications, so further licensing announcements are likely as those reviews conclude.