OPM consultant Martin Slough during the findings presentation.

Nairobi, 31st May, 2013 - Findings from a mid-term review of the second phase of the Kenya credit information sharing initiative (KCISI) project were today presented to representatives of commercial banks, deposit taking micro-finance institutions (DTMs) and other financial services providers who have been sharing credit information.

FSD Kenya had contracted Oxford Policy Management (OPM) to undertake the review from 20th May 2013 to 31st May 2013. The results were presented at a breakfast event by Mr Martin Robert Slough, a banking advisor with OPM. Participants afterwards discussed the key findings during a Q&A session facilitated by FSD's Head of Inclusive Growth Mr James Kashangaki.

Among these, the consultants observed that overall, the credit sharing mechanism had been received positively by lenders who found it useful in encouraging regular loan repayments and for mitigating credit risks. However, outreach to the general public had not been effective and perceptions remain largely negative towards the initiative. Although a concise communications strategy for the project was completed in October 2012, the consultants were of the view that an action plan and budget were needed to launch a cost effective 'big bang' publicity campaign once full file sharing for banks and DTMs becomes law. To read the rest of the findings, please click on the links below to download OPM's presentation and learn more about the KCISI project.

Besides FSD Kenya, the KCISI is supported by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), USAID and the Kenya Bankers' Association (KBA).

• OPM's presentation on the credit information sharing project mid-term review

• Visit KCISI's website for more information on the project