Effect Of Islamic Finance On Performance Of Commercial Banks In Kenya

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to establish the effect of Islamic finance on the performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The study was guided by three specific objectives which are to; establish the effect of Mudaraba loans on commercial banks’ financial performance in Kenya, assess the effect of Ijara products on commercial banks’ financial performance in Kenya and assess the effect of Murabaha contracts on commercial banks’ financial performance in Kenya. This study used a descriptive research design. The study was undertaken in the two completely established Islamic commercial banks in Kenya as well as the 5 conservative banks offering partial Islamic commercial banking. Secondary data was used for this study. This means that the data used was quantitative in nature. The researcher used financial performance data for the years 2015-2019. Descriptive statistics was utilized to organize Data. To scrutinize the data, descriptive analysis such as standard deviation, frequencies, mean, as well as percentages were utilized. Additionally, Pearson correlation as well as multiple regressions which are inferential statistics were utilized. So as to come up with a reliable model for this survey the researcher carried out appropriate diagnostic tests. The study established that Murabaha is the most common Islamic finance products though the Ijara was also significant. The findings also showed strong positive relationship between Murabaha and bank performance. From the study findings it was evident that there was a positive effect of Ijara on bank performance. Mudaraba had a positive insignificant effect on bank performance. Based on the findings, the study concluded that the Islamic finance affected bank performance with some having a positive significant effect and others insignificant effect. The study recommended that commercial banks in Kenya should sensitize its customers on the need to promote partnership through financing business ideas. Also among the most recommended measures put in place is by selecting key financial and other indicators to monitor programs based on the statutory requirements on Islamic banking products. Developing systems for managing future performance based on the statutory requirements is also highly recommended.