How to get a lending license in Kenya

Kenya has witnessed a meteoric rise in digital lending over the past decade. With more people using smartphones and needing easy access to loans, this sector has become a cornerstone of the country’s financial landscape.

Digital lending platforms have successfully bridged the gap for millions of Kenyans underserved by traditional banking institutions. With over 120 digital credit providers (DCPs) operating in the market, unbanked populations have access to financial services and financial inclusion has increased by over 50%.

A study conducted by the Digital Lenders Association of Kenya (DLAK) revealed that 83% of users were highly satisfied with their mobile lending experiences, and 88% expressed willingness to take out another loan in the future. These loans have been instrumental in supporting personal needs and fueling small businesses.

The seamless integration of mobile banking and fintech has transformed the loan application process into a swift and convenient affair, particularly appealing to the tech-savvy younger demographic.

Given the rapid growth and popularity of digital lending, getting a lending license in Kenya has become a strategic necessity for businesses seeking to tap into this growing market.

Also read: Best loan management software for Kenyan lenders: Lendsqr vs. Presta

Requirements for obtaining a digital credit provider (DCP) license in Kenya

To address concerns over the rapid growth of digital lending and its associated challenges, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) introduced the Central Bank of Kenya (Digital Credit Providers) Regulations, 2022. These regulations mandate licensing for all digital credit providers (DCPs) operating in Kenya.

To get a lending license in Kenya, your application must be accompanied by these documents:

Corporate information

• A certified copy of the certificate of incorporation of the digital credit provider.
• A certified copy of the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the proposed digital credit provider.
• Notification of the proposed digital credit provider’s registered business address.
• A certified copy of the Memorandum and Article of Association of any corporate body with a significant shareholding (at least 10%) in the digital credit provider.
• A certified copy of the constitutive documents of any unincorporated person with a significant shareholding (at least 10%) in the digital credit provider.

Business operations and technology

• A detailed description of the information and communications technology system for use.
• A description of the delivery channels or platforms for deployment.
• A comprehensive outline of credit products and services, including terms and conditions.
• Evidence of an agreement with a telecommunications or other service provider for the provision of a channel or platform.

Risk management and compliance

• The proposed digital credit provider’s Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) policies and procedures.  
• The proposed digital credit provider’s data protection policies and procedures, including a Certificate of Registration as a Data Controller/Data Processor.
• A detailed description and evidence of the sources of funds for investment in the digital credit provider.
• A corporate governance policy emphasizing ethics, integrity, risk management, and legal compliance.
• A comprehensive credit policy, code of ethics, and market conduct guidelines, including borrower credit limits as per CBK requirements.
• The proposed digital credit provider’s pricing model and parameters.

Once you have all this information, submit the completed application and required documents to the CBK for review and wait for approval.

Fit and proper assessment

• The CBK will conduct a thorough “Fit and Proper” test on directors, significant shareholders, and senior employees to assess their suitability for managing the digital credit provider.
• Failure to meet the criteria may lead to the disposal of shares or disqualification from holding any office in a digital credit provider.

Featured read: How to get started as a lender in Kenya

Challenges and considerations

The digital lending landscape in Kenya, while promising, presents several challenges that you must navigate as a potential lender.

Intense competition: The digital lending market is highly competitive, with many businesses vying for customers. To succeed, new lenders must offer unique products or exceptional service to stand out.

Regulatory requirements: Lenders must follow strict rules set by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK). This includes protecting customer data and ensuring fair lending practices. Staying compliant is necessary to avoid penalties or losing the business license.

Economic uncertainty: Economic factors like inflation and changes in consumer spending can impact borrowers’ ability to repay loans. Lenders must prepare for these fluctuations to protect their business.

Get your lending license the right way

Getting a lending license in Kenya is a big step for anyone wanting to start a lending business. It’s important to plan carefully and know all the rules set by the government.

To succeed, you need to always prioritize compliance with CBK regulations to ensure long-term sustainability., understand the market, and offer something different to your customers. You also need to be ready for changes in the economy that can affect how people pay back loans.

By doing all these things, you can build a successful lending business that helps people in Kenya. When you need a loan management software to scale your business, simply send a message to [email protected] and we’ll help you get started.