Public consultation on Kenya's VASP Regulations closes; final rules expected Q2

Public participation on the Draft Virtual Asset Service Providers Regulations 2026 closed on 10 April 2026, keeping Kenya on track to operationalise VASP licensing in 2026. The regulations, drafted with the CBK and CMA through a multi-agency task force, cover licensing, capital, solvency and insurance requirements under the VASP Act 2025. Final regulations were expected in Q2 2026, pending Cabinet approval, as at our coverage date.

Once final rules are published, the licensing process and the Act's section 47 deadline of 4 November 2026 converge, meaning existing VASPs will be applying for licences and demonstrating compliance within a compressed timeframe. Operators that had not begun compliance work ahead of the final regulations face a shortened window to complete it.