KCB Bank Kenya has partnered with Mastercard to launch the KCB Sahl Card, a Shariah-compliant payment solution designed to provide Islamic banking customers with secure, convenient and values-driven financial services.
The new card is part of KCB’s broader Sahl Banking proposition, which provides banking solutions developed in accordance with Islamic finance principles. The launch also includes the rollout of the Sahl Agency Banking network, allowing customers to access essential banking services such as deposits, withdrawals, payments and account services through a network of authorised agents.
The KCB Mastercard Sahl Card enables customers to manage their daily financial transactions while maintaining compliance with Shariah banking practices. Through the partnership with Mastercard, cardholders will also access global payment capabilities alongside lifestyle, travel and shopping benefits.
KCB Sahl Card Expands Shariah-Compliant Banking Services
The launch of the Sahl Card marks KCB’s continued expansion of Islamic banking products aimed at serving customers seeking financial solutions that align with their values and religious principles. Developed in line with Islamic finance requirements, the card allows customers to make everyday purchases and payments while supporting responsible financial management. The solution combines the convenience of digital payments with features designed to meet the needs of Islamic banking customers.
According to KCB, the partnership with Mastercard reflects the bank’s commitment to expanding access to inclusive financial products that respond to changing customer preferences.
“We remain committed to developing financial solutions that reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of our customers. The Sahl card represents an important step in expanding access to Shariah-compliant banking solutions by providing customers with a secure, convenient, and values-driven payment option that supports their everyday financial and lifestyle needs,” said Mark Mwongela, KCB Group Director, Strategy & Innovation.
The Sahl Card provides customers with a payment platform that supports local and international transactions while incorporating security features designed to protect customers against fraud and unauthorised use.
Mastercard Benefits Available Through the Sahl Card
Through the partnership with Mastercard, KCB Sahl Card holders will gain access to a range of lifestyle and travel benefits designed to enhance their banking experience. Eligible customers will have access to The Mastercard Collection, which provides exclusive privileges including selected dining experiences, travel offers and shopping benefits.
The KCB Sahl card also comes with additional features such as:
- Spend management controls to help customers track and manage expenses.
- Real-time transaction alerts for improved payment security.
- Concierge services for lifestyle and travel assistance.
- Access to selected travel, dining and shopping privileges.
The card features Mastercard’s global payment acceptance network, allowing customers to use it at millions of merchants worldwide while benefiting from secure digital payment technologies.
How to Get the KCB Mastercard Sahl Card
Customers who want to access the KCB Mastercard Sahl Card must first open or maintain a Shariah-compliant KCB Sahl account. The account can be opened through KCB branches or digital banking platforms, including the KCB Mobile App and M-Benki platform. Once the account is active, customers can apply for the Sahl Card and complete the required verification process.
KCB offers different Sahl account options to cater to various customer segments, including individuals, professionals and students. The available account options include:
- Sahl Personal Current Account: A standard Islamic banking account for individuals with a minimum opening balance of KSh2,000.
- Sahl Bankika Personal Account: An account designed for young customers and professionals with a minimum opening balance of KSh200.
- Sahl Advantage Current Account: A premium account targeting high-income customers with a minimum net income requirement of KSh100,000.
- Sahl Student Plus Account: An account designed for students with a minimum opening balance of KSh100.
After applying, customers are required to pay the applicable card issuance fee, currently set at KSh430 for card issuance or replacement. Once approved, customers can collect their card and activate it by setting their PIN through KCB digital channels or by dialing *522#.
Requirements to Apply for the KCB Sahl Card
To apply for the Sahl Card, customers must provide identification and supporting documents depending on their selected account type. The required documents include:
- A Kenyan National ID or valid passport.
- Proof of income or employer confirmation for applicable account categories.
- Student identification documents or admission letters for Student Plus applicants.
- Two referees, with at least one preferably being an existing KCB customer.
These requirements help KCB verify customer details while ensuring compliance with banking regulations and Islamic finance standards.
Jefferson Wachira is a writer at Africa Digest News, specializing in banking and finance trends, and their impact on African economies.