CBK Announces Bank Al-Habib Exit From Kenyan Market

NAIROBI,Kenya-The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has cancelled the operating authority of Bank Al-Habib Ltd (BAHL) of Pakistan, effectively ending the bank’s presence in the country.

CBK in a statement onMonday asserted that the decision effective May 15, 2025 follows a strategic move by the bank to streamline its international operations.

“BAHL’s exit from Kenya follows a strategic decision by BAHL to rationalize its foreign operations,” CBK stated.

Bank Al-Habib was first granted permission to open a representative office in Kenya on April 9, 2018. 

Based in Karachi, Pakistan, the bank offers retail, corporate, and international trade finance services. 

Its Nairobi office mainly served as a marketing and liaison arm for the parent company and its global affiliates.

The regulator noted that the closure does not impact Kenya’s banking sector stability, as the office did not undertake banking transactions.

CBK reiterated its commitment to maintaining a stable and efficient banking system, even as global institutions reassess their regional footprints.