The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has announced the cancellation of the authority granted to Bank Al-Habib Ltd (BAHL) of Pakistan to operate a Representative Office in Kenya.
The revocation, made under Section 43 of the Banking Act, is effective from May 15, 2025.
The move follows a strategic decision by BAHL to rationalize its foreign operations, leading to its voluntary exit from the Kenyan market.
The bank had been operating in Kenya since April 9, 2018, when it received authorization from CBK to establish a Representative Office in the country.
Bank Al-Habib, headquartered in Karachi, Pakistan, is a well-established commercial bank providing a wide range of services, including retail and corporate banking, as well as international trade finance.
The Kenyan office functioned primarily as a marketing and liaison hub, connecting the parent bank with local clients and supporting its international affiliates.
In a statement, CBK confirmed that the closure is part of BAHL’s broader international strategy and not the result of regulatory or financial challenges.
The bank has coordinated its exit in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
The Central Bank emphasized that the withdrawal of BAHL’s Representative Office does not affect Kenya’s broader financial stability or banking sector.
Kenya continues to host several international banks and financial institutions, underlining its role as a regional financial hub.
CBK assured the public and stakeholders that it remains committed to maintaining a strong and resilient banking sector, with appropriate oversight for both domestic and foreign institutions operating in the country.
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