The Credit Information Sharing Association of Kenya (CIS Kenya) has received the green light from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) to roll out a new digital tool that promises to improve the accuracy of credit data in the country.
The tool, known as CIS ValiData, has been developed to help credit providers like banks and lenders clean and check their data before sending it to Credit Reference Bureaus (CRBs).
By doing this, the tool aims to reduce common errors, improve data quality, and strengthen trust in Kenya’s credit reporting system.
CIS ValiData has already gone through a pilot phase where it was tested by a wide range of credit providers, including commercial banks, which make up more than 80% of Kenya’s credit market.
The results showed fewer data mistakes and better compliance with reporting standards, boosting confidence in the tool across the financial industry.
“This is a big milestone for us,” said Jared Getenga, CEO of CIS Kenya. “With ValiData, we’re helping institutions take more responsibility for their data, which leads to better credit decisions, more access to loans, and progress towards Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals.”
The tool works like a “data proofreader,” checking records for accuracy and completeness before they are shared with CRBs. Only data that meets a quality threshold set at 80% is submitted.
It also offers automated submissions, instant feedback, and reports, making the process quicker and more efficient.
Raimond Molenje, CEO of the Kenya Bankers Association, called ValiData a “game-changer,” saying it will help lenders make better, risk-based decisions and open up affordable credit for more individuals and small businesses. He added that this directly supports financial inclusion.
The development of the tool started back in 2013 and has evolved from a simple data hub concept into a secure, on-premise solution that respects data privacy. It was funded in part by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation through FSD Kenya.
CRBs have also welcomed the move. Gideon Kipyakwai, CEO of Metropol CRB, said the tool will help ensure the data they receive is accurate and consistent, leading to more reliable credit scores and fairer credit reports for everyone.
CIS Kenya says this is just the beginning. Plans are already underway to improve the tool further adding features like handling consumer disputes and connecting with Open Banking systems to enrich the data CRBs receive.
Adah Mukubi, CIS Kenya’s Head of Communications and Partnerships, thanked the many partners who supported the tool’s development, including FSD Kenya, the Kenya Bankers Association, the Digital Financial Services Association of Kenya (DFSAK), and the CRBs.
“This success shows the power of teamwork in building a stronger, more inclusive credit system,” she said.
With CBK’s approval now in place, CIS Kenya is preparing for a full rollout of the ValiData tool, along with training programs to help credit providers make the most of it.
