Kenya is spearheading efforts to introduce new regulations to oversee cryptocurrency trading, particularly in Bitcoin, amidst rising apprehensions that the surge in virtual asset transactions could exacerbate risks associated with money laundering and terrorism financing.
A specialized technical working group, tasked with advising the Treasury on matters related to cryptocurrency, is currently in the process of formulating draft regulations for submission to the Cabinet for approval. This initiative marks a significant step in addressing vulnerabilities within the country’s financial system.
Saitoti Maika, the director-general of the Financial Reporting Centre (FRC), disclosed that a sectoral working group is actively developing a policy framework to guide the establishment of a legal infrastructure for regulating digital assets providers. He emphasized the necessity of proactive regulation, suggesting the potential establishment of a dedicated regulatory body for virtual assets.
Despite Kenya’s prominence in peer-to-peer cryptocurrency platforms, the absence of comprehensive regulations poses a significant challenge. Reports from entities like Chainalysis have highlighted Kenya as one of the leading participants in these platforms, which facilitate direct transactions between traders without centralized intermediaries.
Maika underscored the urgency of addressing these concerns, particularly in light of Kenya’s commitment to aligning with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards through the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group (ESAAMLG). Non-compliance could lead to Kenya being placed on the FATF grey list, subjecting it to increased scrutiny regarding money laundering and terrorism financing risks.
Kenya’s strategic position as a regional business hub, coupled with its extensive trade connections, elevates its vulnerability to illicit financial activities. The country’s financial landscape has witnessed rapid evolution, fueled by advancements in fintech, including mobile banking, online betting, digital credit, and cryptocurrency usage, necessitating comprehensive regulatory measures.
The FATF plenary and working group meetings in Paris will provide insights into Kenya’s progress in enhancing the integrity of its financial system. Following the completion of ESAAMLG’s assessment of Kenya’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CFT) system, FATF issued recommendations for addressing identified deficiencies.
Although Kenya has made strides in enacting regulations such as the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Regulations, 2023, and measures to combat terrorism financing, challenges persist. Issues such as the disparity between investigations and prosecutions, along with instances of dropped corruption cases, remain areas of concern.
Kenya’s proactive stance on cryptocurrency regulation reflects its commitment to safeguarding its financial integrity and mitigating risks associated with illicit financial activities. By addressing these challenges, Kenya aims to bolster its compliance with international standards and reinforce its position as a responsible financial actor on the global stage.
