Since the beginning of 2025, Kenya has faced significant economic challenges, leading to the closure of numerous companies, while others have ceased operations for undisclosed reasons.
This article reviews the companies that have shut down or exited Kenya since the start of 2025.
List of Companies That Have Shut Down
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CMC Motors
On January 17, 2025, CMC Motors Group announced its decision to cease all operations in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, marking the end of its 40 years of business in the region.
The Group cited rising operational costs that made its operations unsustainable.
“This decision follows a thorough evaluation of the business in light of sustained market challenges, including economic pressures, currency depreciation, and rising operational costs,” stated part of their announcement.
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Al-Habib
Bank Al-Habib, a Pakistani bank, officially exited Kenya, with its representative office in Nairobi closing on May 15, 2025.
This decision came after a strategic review by the bank to streamline its foreign operations, as confirmed by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).
Also Read: List of 5 Kenyan Companies with Establishments Outside Kenya
The CBK formally cancelled the bank’s operating authority, effective May 15, 2025.
“The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) announces the cancellation of the authority granted to Bank Al-Habib Ltd (BAHL) of Pakistan to operate the BAHL Representative Office in Kenya, pursuant to Section 43 of the Banking Act,” stated the CBK.
The closure ended the bank’s seven-year presence in Kenya, which began in April 2018 when it was authorized to establish a representative office.
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Caltex House Service Station Limited
After decades of service to motorists in Kenya, Caltex House Service Station Limited is set to be dissolved, according to a government notice issued on June 5, 2025.
The announcement, listed under Gazette Notice No. 7420 by the Registrar of Companies, states that Caltex House Service Station Limited (Company No. C. 12484) will be struck off the official register in three months unless any objections are raised.
The notice was issued by Deputy Registrar of Companies Hiram Gachugi under Section 894(3) of the Companies Act (Cap. 486).
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D.T. Dobie
D.T. Dobie, one of Kenya’s oldest automotive firms, is officially shutting down as a corporate entity after being placed under liquidation by the High Court.
The court appointed Mark Gakuru as the official receiver, and creditors have been directed to submit their claims by September 15, 2025. This marks the end of D.T. Dobie as a standalone company after more than 75 years of operation in Kenya.
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However, the closure does not signify the end of its business operations. In April 2023, D.T. Dobie’s assets and operations were merged with CFAO Motors Kenya, a move aimed at consolidating automotive services under one umbrella.
Since then, CFAO Motors has continued to provide the vehicle brands, servicing, and parts that D.T. Dobie was known for. In summary, while D.T. Dobie is legally winding up through liquidation, its operations and legacy continue under CFAO Motors Kenya.
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