Kenya is set to attract approximately Sh25.8 billion ($200 million) in fresh investments after the Nairobi International Financial Centre (NIFC) certified 15 additional firms, raising the total number of registered entities to 16. The development marks another step in the country’s drive to establish Nairobi as Africa’s premier financial hub, with more certifications expected by mid-July.
The newly accredited companies operate in sectors including digital finance, artificial intelligence, climate and carbon markets, investment management, healthcare, fintech, and capital markets innovation. Their combined investments are projected to generate more than 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, reflecting growing confidence in Kenya’s investment climate and regulatory framework.
The latest firms to receive certification are Bupa Global Insurance Limited, Etica Capital Limited, Giraffe Bioenergy Limited, Valr Capital Limited, ReportsAI Limited, Afrex Technologies Limited, Onfon Mobile Limited, JPH Investments Limited, Nairobi Pesa City, Mzizi Court Limited, Uhuru Heights Limited, Zurit Consulting, Assnture Afrique Limited, BoC Technologies Limited and Africa First Exchange (A1X).
NIFC Chief Executive Daniel Mainda said the certifications underscore investors’ trust in Kenya’s long-term vision of becoming Africa’s leading international financial centre.
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According to Mainda, each newly certified company represents a strong endorsement of Kenya’s economic future, helping to build an ecosystem that encourages capital mobilisation, supports innovation and promotes sustainable investment.
He added that the Centre’s objective extends beyond licensing firms, with a broader focus on directing investment into productive sectors, creating employment opportunities and accelerating the commercialisation of innovation.
Several of the certified companies are developing solutions in digital assets, tokenised securities, virtual asset-enabled cross-border payments, stablecoin infrastructure and artificial intelligence-driven financial services.
Others are advancing climate finance initiatives through projects centred on afforestation, bioenergy and carbon credits, supporting Kenya’s green growth agenda while attracting additional investment.
The NIFC is also prioritising the growth of private equity, venture capital, startup financing and fund domiciliation as part of efforts to deepen the country’s financial markets.
Beyond certifying firms, the Centre has expanded its global footprint by signing cooperation agreements with the Qatar Financial Centre, Astana International Financial Centre and Casablanca Finance City, strengthening Nairobi’s access to international capital markets.
The latest developments follow Cabinet approval for Kenya to host the Secretariat of the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AAMFI), a move expected to reinforce Nairobi’s position in mobilising investment and shaping Africa’s financial landscape.
The NIFC has further enhanced collaboration with key financial regulators, including the Central Bank of Kenya, the Capital Markets Authority, the Insurance Regulatory Authority, the Retirement Benefits Authority and the Nairobi Securities Exchange, as it works to build a globally competitive financial ecosystem.
Mainda said the Centre remains committed to attracting international investors, creating high-quality jobs and positioning Nairobi as Africa’s preferred destination for finance, innovation and investment.
