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
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ABSA Bank of Kenya Ltd
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Access Bank Kenya PLC
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African Banking Corporation Limited (ABC Bank)
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Bank of Africa Kenya Limited
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Bank of Baroda (Kenya) Limited
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Bank of India (Kenya)
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Citibank N.A Kenya
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Commercial International Bank (CIB) Kenya Limited
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Consolidated Bank of Kenya Limited
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Co-operative Bank of Kenya Limited
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Credit Bank Limited
D – I
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Development Bank of Kenya Limited
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Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) Kenya Limited
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DIB Bank Kenya Limited
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Ecobank Kenya Limited
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Equity Bank Kenya Limited
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Family Bank Limited
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Guaranty Trust Bank (K) Limited (GTBank)
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Guardian Bank Limited
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Gulf African Bank Limited
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Habib Bank A.G Zurich
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I & M Bank Limited
K – N
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KCB Bank Kenya Limited
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Kingdom Bank Limited
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M-Oriental Bank Limited
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Middle East Bank (K) Limited
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National Bank of Kenya Limited (NBK)
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NCBA Bank Kenya Plc
P – V
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Paramount Bank
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Premier Bank Limited
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Prime Bank Limited
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SBM Bank (K) Limited
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Sidian Bank Limited
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Stanbic Bank Kenya Limited
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Standard Chartered Bank Kenya Limited
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UBA Kenya Bank Limited
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Victoria Commercial Bank Limited
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.
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.
