Nairobi — The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has licensed an additional 32 Digital Credit Providers (DCPs), bringing the total number of approved players in the country to 227.

The move follows the approval of 42 lenders in December last year, as the regulator steps up oversight of the fast-growing digital lending sector.

CBK said it has received more than 800 applications since March 2022 and has been engaging applicants on business models, consumer protection, and the suitability of shareholders, directors, and management.

"The focus of the engagements with DCPs has been on business models, consumer protection and fitness and propriety of proposed shareholders, directors, and management," the bank said in a statement.

The regulator began licensing digital lenders after concerns over predatory practices, including high costs, unethical debt collection, and misuse of personal data.

As of February 2026, licensed DCPs had issued 7.5 million loans worth Sh133.5 billion.

CBK said remaining applicants are at various stages of review, urging those yet to submit required documentation to do so to facilitate approval.