The National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) has suspended the issuance of new licences to non-deposit-taking financial service providers that offer lending services, in a move aimed at strengthening standards and sustainability in the sector.
The six-month suspension took effect on August 24, 2026, according to BNR. The central bank recently introduced Regulation No. 96/2026 of July 7, 2026, governing non-deposit-taking financial service providers and replacing the previous regulatory framework.
Non-deposit-taking financial service providers offer financial services such as lending without accepting deposits from the public. BNR regulates and supervises the sector as part of its broader mandate to promote a sound and stable financial system.
According to the notice, the temporary suspension is intended to give BNR time to review and strengthen the framework for licensing and managing these financial services, with particular attention to operational capacity, professionalism and compliance with laws and regulations.
The suspension applies to new applications for licences to operate as non-deposit-taking financial service providers offering loans.
However, applications submitted before the suspension took effect are not affected by the decision.
Existing licensed institutions will also continue operating, provided they comply with applicable laws and regulations.
BNR said the decision is part of broader measures to ensure that financial services are delivered in a sound, sustainable and well-regulated manner.
The central bank’s regulatory framework describes non-deposit-taking financial service providers as institutions that provide alternative financial services without taking deposits from the public.
