Jijenge Credit CEO Urges Kenyans to Boost Credit Scores Ahead of Risk-Based Lending Shift
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By John Kariuki
Jijenge Credit Limited Founder and CEO Peter Macharia Kamau has urged Kenyans to safeguard their financial future by maintaining healthy credit scores as banks prepare to roll out new risk-based lending rules.
Speaking on Friday, Mr. Kamau warned that borrowers with poor repayment histories will soon face higher borrowing costs under the Central Bank of Kenya’s (CBK) new framework, which takes effect on December 1, 2025. The model will peg all loans to the Kenya Shilling Overnight Interbank Average (KESONIA).
“A strong credit score is more than a number—it is a gateway to financial stability and opportunity,” Kamau said, noting that it guarantees better loan approval rates, lower interest charges, higher credit limits, and more favorable terms. He added that borrowers with good scores also benefit from lower insurance premiums, easier approval for rentals, and access to superior credit card reward programs.
CBK Governor Dr. Kamau Thugge has clarified that while the new framework is not designed to exclude borrowers, it will significantly raise the cost of credit for high-risk individuals. Commercial banks are expected to fully transition within the next three months.
Mr. Kamau advised Kenyans to act early by embracing financial discipline, timely repayments, and responsible borrowing. “This is the moment to ensure your credit score reflects trustworthiness. It’s not just about accessing credit—it’s about securing long-term financial security,” he said.
The shift marks a pivotal moment in Kenya’s credit market, underscoring personal responsibility as a key determinant of affordable borrowing.
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