KCB and Mastercard Launch Sahl Credit Card to Expand Shariah-compliant Payment Solutions
July 8, 2026 | Nairobi, Kenya
Mark Mwongela, KCB Plc Group Director Strategy and Innovation (left) and Shehryar Ali, senior vice president and country manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands at Mastercard (right), during the launch of the Sahl Card.
Nairobi, Kenya; 8 July 2026: KCB in collaboration with Mastercard has launched the Sahl Credit Card, a Shariah-compliant payment solution designed to provide customers with a convenient, secure, and tailored way to manage their spending while accessing exclusive lifestyle and travel benefits.
The milestone highlights KCB’s commitment to offering inclusive financial solutions that respond to the diverse needs of its customers. Developed in line with Islamic finance principles, the card enables customers to make everyday purchases and payments while remaining aligned with their values and financial preferences.
The Sahl Card offers a range of benefits tailored to modern lifestyles, particularly for customers seeking Muslim-friendly travel and lifestyle experiences. Mastercard World Elite and Gold Credit Cardholders will enjoy access to exclusive offers on accommodation, dining, shopping, and leisure experiences enabled through Mastercard’s global network.
Speaking during the launch, KCB Group CEO, Paul Russo said, "At KCB, 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."
On his part, Shehryar Ali, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands, Mastercard, added, “At Mastercard, we are committed to powering an inclusive digital economy where every individual and community can pay with confidence. Our collaboration with KCB Bank gives consumers a payment solution built around their values and lifestyle. By combining our global network with KCB's deep local expertise, we are connecting the Islamic banking community to the experiences and passions that matter most to them.”
Eligible cardholders will have access to The Mastercard Collection, a premium suite of curated dining, travel, and lifestyle experiences available to World Elite Mastercard cardholders. Through this offering, customers can enjoy exclusive privileges, including access to exceptional culinary moments, unique travel benefits, and handpicked experiences designed to enrich their everyday lives, both locally and globally, where available. Additional features include spend management controls, transaction alerts, concierge services, and an Islamic-themed card design that reflects the values of its target market.
At the same time, KCB unveiled the Sahl Agency banking which will allow customers to deposit funds, withdraw cash, make payments and access essential banking services through trusted agents within their own communities without compromising the very principles that guide their daily financial decisions.
About Mastercard
Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.
