Kenya Seeks Public Feedback on Draft VASP Rules and Stablecoin Backing

Kenya Seeks Public Feedback on Draft VASP Rules and Stablecoin Backing

According to Kenya’s Treasury, public comments on the 2026 VASP regulations are open until April 10, with regional forums from March 30 as the country details licensing, reserve, and fee requirements.

Fact Check
The statement is fully corroborated by primary news reports and industry association announcements in Kenya. The National Treasury, under Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, published the notice in the state-owned newspaper MyGov on March 17, 2026. The specific dates (April 10 deadline, March 30 hearings) and the $19 billion inflow figure (sourced from Chainalysis) are consistently reported across multiple authoritative outlets like TechCabal and The Block.
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Summary

Kenya’s Treasury has opened public consultation on the Virtual Asset Service Providers Regulations, 2026, with comments due by April 10, 2026, and public forums set to begin March 30 in multiple regions. The draft rules add further detail to Kenya’s developing crypto framework by setting requirements for licensing, reserves, and fees for virtual asset service providers. Finance Minister John Mbadi said the regional consultation forums will start on March 30. The broader proposal remains part of Kenya’s effort to formalize oversight of crypto-related activity, including stablecoins and other digital asset services.

Terms & Concepts
  • VASP: Virtual asset service provider, a business that offers crypto-related services such as exchange, transfer, custody, or issuance activities.
  • stablecoin: A cryptocurrency designed to maintain a relatively stable value, often by being linked to fiat currency or backed by reserve assets.