The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has announced the licensing of 32 new Digital Credit Providers (DCPs), bringing the total number of licensed providers to 227.
This follows the licensing of 42 DCPs in December 2025, signaling a continued effort to regulate and monitor the digital lending space in Kenya.
In a statement released on April 14th, CBK revealed that it had received over 800 applications for DCP licensing since March 2022.
The review process, which has involved close collaboration with the applicants, focused on several key areas, including business models, consumer protection, and the suitability of proposed shareholders, directors, and management. The goal, according to CBK, is to ensure compliance with relevant laws and safeguard the interests of borrowers.
“We acknowledge the efforts of the applicants and the support of other regulators and agencies in this process,” the statement read.
Digital Credit Providers predominantly offer loans through digital platforms, including Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) codes, making access to credit more convenient for consumers. The loan products offered by licensed DCPs include education loans, development loans, short-term personal loans, asset financing, and business loans.
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As of February 2026, the licensed DCPs have issued a total of 7.5 million loans, valued at Ksh. 133.5 billion. CBK has emphasized that the public can access a full list of the 227 licensed DCPs on its official website.
CBK also urged other applicants, who are still in the process of obtaining their licenses, to submit any outstanding documentation promptly to ensure a swift review and completion of their applications.
The regulatory push to license DCPs follows concerns raised by the public about predatory practices within the digital lending sector.
Issues such as high interest rates, unethical debt collection practices, and the misuse of personal data have been at the forefront of these concerns. The licensing initiative aims to address these challenges and ensure a safer and more transparent lending environment for Kenyan consumers.
CBK has also encouraged members of the public to report any unregulated DCPs by emailing dcps@centralbank.go.ke
By Obegi Malack
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