The Official List of CBK-Licensed Commercial Banks in Kenya

As of the latest data, there are approximately 39 licensed commercial banks operating in Kenya . The list, which includes both locally-owned and foreign-owned banks, is frequently updated by the CBK. Here is the comprehensive list of KDIC-member commercial banks, verified as of 2026 :

Below is the PDF of CBK-Licensed Commercial Banks in Kenya

list of accredited commercial banks in kenya

Above is the PDF of  CBK-Licensed Commercial Banks in Kenya

A – C

list of accredited banks in kenya

D – I

K – N

P – V

Important Note: This list reflects commercial banks that are members of the Kenya Deposit Insurance Corporation (KDIC), which means your deposits are protected up to a certain limit . Always check the official CBK website for the most current list, as new banks can be licensed and the status of existing banks can change.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About CBK-Accredited Banks

1. How many commercial banks are currently licensed by the CBK?

According to the latest CBK data, there are 39 licensed commercial banks in Kenya . The sector includes 24 privately owned, locally-based banks and 15 foreign-owned banks .

2. What is the difference between a “commercial bank” and a “microfinance bank”?

A commercial bank is a fully-fledged financial institution that offers a complete range of banking services, including checking and savings accounts, loans, and investment products. In contrast, a microfinance bank is a smaller institution focused on providing financial services to individuals and small businesses who may not have access to traditional banking . The CBK maintains separate lists for each. Examples of CBK-licensed microfinance banks include Faulu Microfinance Bank, Kenya Women Microfinance Bank, and SMEP Microfinance Bank .

3. Why has the CBK not been licensing new commercial banks?

The CBK imposed a moratorium on licensing new commercial banks on November 17, 2015. This was due to a series of governance, risk management, and operational challenges in the sector that led to the collapse of some tier-three lenders . The freeze was intended to allow the CBK to strengthen supervision and the regulatory framework of the banking sector.

4. Is the ban on new bank licenses still in effect?

No. The Central Bank of Kenya officially announced the lifting of the decade-long moratorium, effective July 1, 2025 . This significant policy shift paves the way for new players to enter the Kenyan banking market.

5. What are the requirements for a new bank to be licensed?

The decision to lift the moratorium is linked to the enactment of the Business Laws (Amendment) Act, 2024. This act significantly increased the minimum core capital requirement for all commercial banks. New entrants will now be required to demonstrate they can meet an enhanced minimum capital requirement of Sh10 billion (previously Sh5 billion) .

6. Which are the largest banks in Kenya (Tier 1)?

The largest banks, often categorized as “Tier 1” banks, are typically the top nine by asset base. These include KCB Bank Kenya, Equity Bank Kenya, NCBA Bank, Co-operative Bank, Absa Bank Kenya, Standard Chartered Bank, Diamond Trust Bank, Stanbic Bank, and I&M Bank . These institutions dominate the market in terms of assets and customer outreach .

7. How can I verify if a bank is officially accredited by the CBK?

You can visit the official CBK website, www.centralbank.go.ke, where they regularly publish updated lists of licensed institutions . Checking this source ensures you are using the most reliable and current information.

Conclusion: Choose a Safe Financial Partner

Choosing a bank that is accredited and supervised by the Central Bank of Kenya is the most important step you can take to secure your finances. The CBK plays a vital role in ensuring the stability and integrity of the country’s financial system. With the banking sector on the verge of a new chapter following the lifting of the licensing moratorium, staying informed is more critical than ever.

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Last updated on: August 11, 2026

New information gained / new value takehome

  • Always check the official CBK website for the most current list, as new banks can be licensed and the status of existing banks can change.
  • Why has the CBK not been licensing new commercial banks?
  • The CBK imposed a moratorium on licensing new commercial banks on November 17, 2015.
  • Is the ban on new bank licenses still in effect?
  • This significant policy shift paves the way for new players to enter the Kenyan banking market.
  • What are the requirements for a new bank to be licensed?
  • This act significantly increased the minimum core capital requirement for all commercial banks.
  •  New entrants will now be required to demonstrate they can meet an enhanced minimum capital requirement of Sh10 billion (previously Sh5 billion) .
  • Checking this source ensures you are using the most reliable and current information.
  • Conclusion: Choose a Safe Financial Partner Choosing a bank that is accredited and supervised by the Central Bank of Kenya is the most important step you can take to secure your finances.
Verified Content

This content was developed using AI as part of our research process. To ensure absolute accuracy, all information has been rigorously fact-checked and validated by our human editor, Alex Munene.

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Educational Communication and Information Technology is an important subject for...

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What is Educational Communication and Information Technology? Educational Communication and Information Technology refers to the application of communication principles and technological tools in educational settings. It helps teachers deliver information effectively and enables learners to access, process, and share knowledge through different channels. The subject includes communication processes, instructional media, computer applications, internet services, multimedia, e-learning, and digital educational resources. Why are Educational Communication and Information Technology past papers important? Past papers help students practise answering examination questions and become familiar with different question formats. They can also help learners identify areas that need more revision and improve their ability to manage examination time. Practising Educational Communication and Information Technology past exam papers alongside course notes can make preparation more organised. Which topics should students revise? Students should revise the main topics covered in their syllabus. These may include: Meaning and importance of communication in education Elements and models of communication Barriers to effective communication Verbal and non-verbal communication Instructional media and teaching aids Computer applications in education Internet services and digital learning resources Multimedia and e-learning Educational broadcasting Advantages and challenges of educational technology These topics provide a useful starting point for Educational Communication and Information Technology revision questions. What is the communication process? The communication process involves the exchange of information between a sender and a receiver. The sender develops a message, selects a channel, and transmits the information. The receiver interprets the message and may provide feedback. In a classroom, for example, a teacher explains a concept, learners listen and interpret the information, and their questions or responses provide feedback. What are the main elements of communication? The main elements include the sender, message, encoding, channel, receiver, decoding, feedback, and context. Noise can interfere with the process and affect understanding. Students should know the functions of these elements because they are useful when answering Educational Communication and Information Technology exam questions. What is the difference between verbal and non-verbal communication? Verbal communication uses spoken or written words to convey information. Examples include classroom discussions, lectures, textbooks, and written instructions. Non-verbal communication involves conveying meaning through gestures, facial expressions, posture, eye contact, and other visual signals. Teachers often use both forms to explain concepts and interact with learners. What are the barriers to effective communication? Communication barriers are factors that prevent a message from being transmitted or understood clearly. Examples include language differences, poor listening, unclear explanations, excessive classroom noise, cultural differences, and technical difficulties. Teachers can reduce these barriers by using clear language, encouraging questions, choosing suitable communication channels, and checking learners’ understanding. What is instructional media? Instructional media refers to materials and resources used to support teaching and learning. Examples include charts, diagrams, maps, models, photographs, audio recordings, videos, projectors, and computers. The appropriate teaching aid depends on the lesson objectives, subject content, learners’ needs, and available resources. How does information technology support education? Information technology supports education by helping users create, store, process, retrieve, and share information. Computers, mobile devices, digital platforms, and internet services can support research, classroom teaching, communication, assessment, and access to learning materials. However, effective use requires suitable resources, digital skills, and appropriate planning. What is e-learning? E-learning is the delivery or support of learning through electronic and digital technologies. It may involve virtual classrooms, online lessons, learning management systems, electronic textbooks, recorded lectures, and online assignments. Students preparing Educational Communication and Information Technology questions and answers should understand the meaning, benefits, and limitations of e-learning. What are the advantages and disadvantages of educational technology? Educational technology can improve access to information, support interactive lessons, encourage collaboration, and provide flexible learning opportunities. 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For essay questions, students should introduce the topic, explain each main point clearly, provide relevant examples where appropriate, and finish with a conclusion. Conclusion Preparing with Educational Communication and Information Technology past papers, exam questions, revision notes, and textbooks can help students develop

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