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The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has issued four new licenses in a move aimed at deepening and diversifying Kenya’s capital markets, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance transparency, innovation, and financial inclusion.
In the latest approvals, CMA granted a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) Manager License to Africa Logistics Properties Limited (ARML).
The license will enable the establishment of a REIT focused on Kenya’s logistics and industrial real estate sector, supporting the Government’s Affordable Housing Agenda and promoting real estate development through capital market financing.
In addition, Cinemark Consult Limited received authorization as an Authorised Securities Dealer (ASD). The firm aims to broaden market access for underserved segments, including retail investors, the diaspora, and high-net-worth individuals, contributing to the Authority’s goal of fostering financial inclusion.
The Authority also approved a Coffee Broker License for Wareng Coffee Marketing Agency Limited, under the Capital Markets (Coffee Exchange) Regulations, 2020.
The agency, owned by the Uasin Gishu Coffee Farmers’ Co-operative Union Limited, will trade coffee on behalf of farmers in Uasin Gishu and neighboring counties.
CMA said the move is expected to enhance value chain efficiency and empower coffee farmers through transparent and regulated coffee trading.
Additionally, Victoria Wealth Management Limited has been licensed as a Wealth Manager.
The firm will offer wealth management services such as treasury bond and bill trading, access to unit trusts through licensed fund managers, offshore open-ended funds, and portfolio management. Its focus will be on high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors seeking diversified investment options.
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Speaking on the approvals, CMA Chief Executive Officer FCPA Wyckliffe Shamiah said the move reflects the Authority’s drive to expand the market’s depth and innovation capacity.
“The Authority remains committed to facilitating innovation, diversification, and market deepening in Kenya’s capital markets,” said Shamiah. “The approval of these licenses demonstrates our focus on enabling new products and participants that expand access to investment opportunities, enhance transparency and strengthen investor confidence.”
He added that the new licenses align with the national agenda of leveraging capital markets for economic growth.
“By supporting these entities, the Authority continues to advance the national agenda of mobilizing capital for development while safeguarding investor interests through robust regulation,” Shamiah stated.
