Rwanda and Kenya Sign Kigali Declaration to Allow Fintechs Operate Across Borders

Rwanda and Kenya have signed the Kigali Declaration on Fintech License Passporting, a new agreement that will make it easier for fintech companies to operate across both countries.

The declaration was signed during the Inclusive FinTech Forum 2026 in Kigali. It introduces a system called license passporting, where a fintech licensed in one country can operate in the other without going through the full licensing process again.

Making Fintech Expansion Easier

For many fintech startups in Africa, expanding into another country can be complicated. Companies often need to apply for a new license, meet different regulatory requirements, and go through long approval processes.

With this new agreement, a fintech licensed in Rwanda will now be able to expand into Kenya more easily. The same applies to Kenyan fintech companies that want to operate in Rwanda.

This approach helps reduce regulatory barriers and makes it faster for startups to grow across the region.

Supporting Financial Innovation

The agreement is expected to encourage innovation in digital financial services. It can also improve cross-border payments and help more people access modern financial tools.

Fintech companies will be able to scale their solutions faster, while regulators from both countries continue to collaborate on supervision and compliance.

A Step Toward Regional Financial Integration

The Kigali Declaration is part of a broader effort to strengthen digital finance across East Africa. By working together, Rwanda and Kenya are creating a more connected fintech ecosystem.

If successful, this model could inspire other African countries to adopt similar frameworks, helping build a more integrated and inclusive financial system across the continent.