List of the 42 newly licensed Digital Credit Providers

The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has licensed 42 new Digital Credit Providers (DCPs), bringing the total number of regulated digital lenders in the country to 195.

CBK Governor Kamau Thugge announced the new licences through a gazette notice dated January 9, 2026. He said the approvals were issued in line with Regulation 5 (4) of the Central Bank of Kenya (Digital Credit Providers) Regulations, 2022.

CBK recently said the licensing exercise is aimed at addressing concerns over predatory practices by unregulated digital lenders. These include high interest rates, unethical debt collection methods and misuse of customers’ personal data.

Since March 2022, the regulator has received more than 800 applications. Each application is assessed based on the viability of the business model, consumer protection measures and the suitability of shareholders, directors and management.

Licensed digital credit providers mainly operate online, including through mobile apps and USSD platforms. They offer products such as education and development loans, short-term personal loans, asset financing and business loans.

As of November 2025, licensed digital lenders had issued about 6.6 million loans worth KSh 109.8 billion.

CBK said other applicants are still at different stages of the licensing process, with many yet to submit the required documents.

The regulator urged members of the public to report unlicensed digital lenders through official CBK channels to help protect consumers from abusive practices.