Bank Code
Kenyan banks are identified by a 2-digit bank code assigned by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK). Combined with a 3-digit branch code, these identifiers route interbank transfers through the Kenya Electronic Payment and Settlement System (KEPSS) and PesaLink.
At a glance
Country
Kenya
Identifier
BC
Format
2 digits
Used for
Domestic transfers
Format breakdown
01
Bank Code
1–2
Institution (e.g. 01 = KCB)
001
Branch Code
Separate
Branch identifier
How BC works
The 2-digit bank code identifies the institution (e.g. 01 = KCB, 11 = Co-operative). Branch codes are separate 3-digit numbers. M-Pesa, the dominant mobile money platform, uses phone numbers instead of bank codes for transfers.
Where to find yours
In your banking app, on your bank statement, or on the CBK's list of licensed banks.
Payment systems in Kenya
| System | Speed | Description |
|---|---|---|
| M-Pesa | Instant | Mobile money platform used by over 30 million Kenyans |
| PesaLink | Instant | Real-time bank-to-bank transfers using phone number or account |
| KEPSS | Same day | Kenya Electronic Payment and Settlement System for high-value payments |
| EFT | 1–2 business days | Automated Clearing House for batch transfers |
Major banks in Kenya
Good to know
M-Pesa dominates Kenyan payments — most people send money via phone number rather than bank codes.
Key bank codes: 01 = KCB, 11 = Co-operative, 63 = Diamond Trust, 68 = Equity.
PesaLink bridges the gap between M-Pesa and bank accounts, allowing instant bank-to-bank transfers.
Related tools
Other countries
Frequently asked questions
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