Central Bank of Kenya./FILEThe Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has licensed 27 additional Digital Credit Providers (DCPs), pushing the total number of licensed firms to 153. This follows the licensing of 41 DCPs in June 2025.
CBK said it has received more than 700 applications since March 2022 and continues to review them closely.
The regulator explained that engagements with applicants have focused 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,” CBK said in a statement issued on September 4.
The bank also acknowledged the efforts of applicants and the support of other regulators and agencies in the licensing process.
Digital Credit Providers offer loans through mobile and online platforms, including USSD codes.
Their products range from education and development loans to short-term personal loans, asset financing, and business loans. As of June 2025, licensed DCPs had disbursed 5.5 million loans worth Sh76.8 billion.
CBK noted that the latest 27 licensed providers can be found on its website. Other applicants remain in the pipeline, mostly awaiting the submission of required documentation.
“We urge these applicants to submit the pending documentation expeditiously to enable completion of the review of their applications,” the statement added.
The regulator also invited members of the public to report unregulated providers through [email protected]
CBK said the licensing and oversight of DCPs was prompted by growing public concern over predatory practices by unregulated lenders.
These included high costs, unethical debt collection methods, and the abuse of personal da
