The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has licensed an additional 32 digital credit providers (DCPs), bringing the total number of approved lenders to 227.

In a press release dated Tuesday, April 14, 2026, CBK said the new licences were issued under Section 59(2) of the Central Bank of Kenya Act.

The statement stated that the move builds on an earlier round of approvals in December 2025 and reflects ongoing efforts to formalise digital lending in the country.

“The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) announces the licensing of an additional 32 Digital Credit Providers (DCPs). This is pursuant to Section 59(2) of the Central Bank of Kenya Act (CBK Act). This brings the number of licensed DCPs to 227 following the licensing of 42 DCPs announced in December 2025,” CBK stated.

CBK said that since March 2022, it has received more than 800 applications.

The bank said it has been working closely with applicants looking at their business models, governance structures, and how well they follow consumer protection rules.

CBK stated that this is to ensure adherence to the relevant laws and, importantly, that the interests of customers are safeguarded.

“CBK has received more than 800 applications since March 2022 and has worked closely with the applicants in reviewing their applications. The focus of the engagements with DCPs has been on business models, consumer protection, and fitness and propriety of proposed shareholders, directors, and management,” CBK noted.

“We acknowledge the efforts of the applicants and the support of other regulators and agencies in this process.”

DCPs carry out their lending activities digitally, including through Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) codes.

Total loans issued

The bank also stated that as of February 2026, licensed digital lenders had issued approximately 7.5 million loans worth Ksh133.5 billion, underlining their growing role in expanding access to credit.

However, the regulator cautioned that several applicants are still under review, largely due to incomplete documentation.

CBK urged these firms to expedite their submissions to facilitate the licensing process.

“Loan products include education loans, development loans, short-term personal loans, asset financing, and business loans. As of February 2026, licensed DCPs had granted 7.5 million loans valued at Ksh133.5 billion,” CBK stated.