Kenya Approves 42 Digital Lenders
Written by Black Hot Fire Network Team on January 5, 2026
Kenya’s digital lending space has expanded with the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) licensing 42 new Digital Credit Providers (DCPs), bringing the total to 195. This move follows previous licensing rounds in September 2025 and June, signaling the CBK’s efforts to formalize the sector. Digital Credit Providers offer services like short-term loans and financing via mobile apps and websites, and CBK data indicates over 6.6 million loans worth KSh 109.8 billion were issued by licensed DCPs as of November 2025. The CBK began regulating digital lenders in 2022 to address concerns about data abuse and unethical practices, requiring transparency, ethical debt collection, and anti-money laundering checks.
Warner Bros. Discovery and Canal+ have renewed a multi-year deal that keeps Warner Bros. Discovery channels available on DStv across Africa and parts of Europe. The agreement secures the distribution of HBO Max and several thematic channels, averting a potential blackout. While the deal strengthens Canal+’s entertainment lineup, four Paramount-linked channels—BET Africa, MTV Base, CBS Reality, and CBS Justice—will cease broadcasting on DStv by the end of December 2025.
Starlink internet service has been suspended in Uganda ahead of the country’s January 2026 elections. The move occurred after Starlink agreed to comply with the Ugandan government’s request, citing a lack of local licensing and concerns about imported hardware. Critics suggest the timing of the shutdown may be intended to limit alternative communication channels during the election period.
