Challenges Facing the Development of Islamic Banking. Lessons from the Kenyan Experience

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges facing the development of Islamic banking in Kenya. The research designed for study was a case study approach focusing on four Islamic compliant banks in Kenya. These are: - First Community Bank; Gulf African Bank; Dubai Bank; Kenya commercial Bank Ltd and Barclays Bank Ltd. The population of the study consisted of 33 customers, who were the holders of accounts in the respective banks and 11 managers. Sample data collected by use of questionnaires administered by the researcher and a research assistant. Data analysis method used is based on the quantitative approach using descriptive statistics: mean, mode, and median. Frequency tabulations and cross tabulations were used to bring out the finding of the study. The study revealed Islamic banking compliant was driven by religious compliance and customers need being met. It also revealed that continuous review and improvement of shariah compliant products together with diversifying market niche will lead to drastic development and marketing of Islamic banking products. From the study the following conclusions were drawn: firstly, the factors that influence development of Islamic banking products in Kenya are purely religious compliance and customers need being met.

Keyword: Islamic Banking.