Getting Licensed as a Digital Credit Provider in Kenya

The Central Bank of Kenya (Digital Credit Providers) Regulations, 2022 (the Regulations) were published on 18^th March 2022 under Section 57 of the Central Bank of Kenya Act. Prior to 2022, many digital credit providers (DCPs) — often accessible via mobile apps or USSD platforms — operated without a licence in Kenya. There was therefore an urgent need by the CBK to regulate digital lending businesses — filling a regulatory gap created by the rapid growth of digital credit platforms that had operated with little formal oversight.

The recent Gazette Notice Vol. CXXVIII—No. 6 dated 6 January 2026, confirmed the licensing   of an additional 42 digital credit providers by the Central Bank of Kenya, bringing the total number of licensed DCPs to 195 (press release accessible here). This article explores the key elements of the DCP licensing process and the practical considerations for stakeholders looking to enter this space, in recognition of the continued growth of the Kenyan digital economy.

The Licensing Process: Step by Step

The CBK has integrated the application process online, where anyone desirous of obtaining the DCP licence can create a user account at https://gdi.centralbank.go.ke/ui/submitdcprequest.  

Once the account has been created, a formal application has to be made to the CBK by filling the prescribed forms (Form CBK DCP 1, Form CBK DCP 2 and Form CBK DCP 3). The aforesaid forms, being in the nature of Declarations will need to be attested by a Commissioner for Oaths

Additionally, you will need to provide the following documents:

1. Certified copy of the certificate of incorporation and company particulars (shareholders and directors details);

2. Certified copy of the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Company and any Parent Companies;

3. Description of the information and communication technology system to be used in your operations and an independent assurance on the systems;

4. Description of delivery channels or platforms to be deployed;

5. An agreement with a telecommunication or other service provider for provision of the channel or platform for the provision of digital credit;

6. Your policies and procedures on:

a)      Anti-­Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT);

b)      Data protection;

c)      Consumer redress;

d)      Credit policy, code of ethics and market conduct;

e)      Pricing model and parameters;

f)       Corporate governance;

7. Description and evidence of sources of funds;

8. non-­refundable application fee of Ksh.5,000; and

9. certificate of good conduct, tax compliance certificate and credit reference bureau report for significant shareholders, directors, chief executive officer and senior officers.

If the CBK is satisfied that the applicant meets the requirements of these Regulations, it may grant a licence within sixty days of submission of a complete application. The CBK reserves the right to require additional documentation and information where necessary

The issuance of the licence is subject the payment of a licence fee of Kshs 20,000 renewable annually

Navigating Kenya’s Digital Licensing Landscape

The Kenyan digital economy presents vast opportunities—spanning digital lending, virtual assets, secure communications, and more. However, success in these sectors is inseparable from regulatory compliance. Licensing not only legitimises operations but provides trust, operational stability, and access to customers and financial markets.

As regulators continue to refine and enforce frameworks—seen in the surge of licensed digital credit providers and the introduction of modern digital asset laws—entities operating in this space must align with evolving standards.

Get In Touch

Whether you’re planning to launch a digital lender, a virtual asset platform, or another form of digital service provider, our legal team can guide you through every step of the process—from regulatory strategy and application preparation to compliance and post-licence obligations.

For queries or consultations, please contact us through the details provided on this website