Kenya's Central Bank licenses 25 new digital lenders, total rises to 252

On July 14, 2026, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) announced the licensing of an additional 25 Digital Credit Providers (DCPs), bringing the number of approved digital lenders in the country to 252. The approvals were made under Section 59(2) of the Central Bank of Kenya Act.

CBK said it has received more than 800 applications since the licensing framework began in March 2022 and that each application is assessed for business model soundness, consumer‑protection measures and the fitness and propriety of shareholders, directors and senior management. The latest batch follows earlier approvals of 32 DCPs in April 2026 and previous licensing rounds dating back to December 2025.

The regulator highlighted that licensed DCPs primarily operate through mobile apps and USSD codes, offering a range of loan products such as education loans, short‑term personal credit, asset financing and business financing. By expanding the list of vetted lenders, CBK aims to broaden financial inclusion while curbing predatory lending practices and safeguarding borrowers.