Global cryptocurrency exchange Binance hosted a community event in Kenya, bringing together regulators, industry leaders, and crypto enthusiasts to discuss the country’s evolving digital economy. The event underscored Kenya’s expanding role in the global blockchain space and highlighted Binance’s commitment to fostering innovation in the region.
Among the key speakers was Eng. John Tanui, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, who emphasized Kenya’s growing position in the global digital economy and the importance of supporting emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and cryptocurrency.
“Two major global things that are attracting attention today are AI and Crypto,” Tanui said. “We are happy as a country that we are facilitating young people to explore these opportunities. We are here to learn from this community and are truly impressed by the Kenyan Virtual Assets Chamber, which has a wealth of knowledge. We are working with stakeholders and partners like Binance to ensure we align with existing programs and upskilling initiatives.”
Related Stories:
Tanui also stressed the need to expand digital access to ensure that all regions of the country can benefit from Kenya’s growing tech ecosystem.
“We don’t want to limit these opportunities—whether in established or developing areas. We want to connect more regions so that no one is left out,” he said. “We commend Binance and the community and are ready to work with you to unlock opportunities and cement Kenya as the ‘Silicon Savannah,’ a global hub for tech. We believe Kenya can rank even higher in global innovation, and we are committed to working with agencies, private sector companies, and young people to uplift them. Our country is blessed with immense talent, especially in technology, and we want to make Kenya the go-to destination for tech investment.”
Binance’s Expanding Role in Kenya
The event also featured Rachel Conlan, Binance’s Chief Marketing Officer, who highlighted Kenya’s rapid adoption of digital assets and Binance’s ongoing investment in financial literacy and blockchain education.
“Kenya’s progress in digital finance is a model for the entire continent,” Conlan said. “The level of enthusiasm and engagement from the community, regulators, and business partners here has been truly inspiring. We are thrilled to be part of this journey and to work closely with key stakeholders to ensure the long-term success of crypto adoption and the digital economy.”
Binance has been investing in crypto education initiatives, including its Crypto School program, which offers locally tailored courses on cryptocurrency and blockchain. Binance Academy also continues to provide educational resources to help users make informed financial decisions.
At the event, Tony Olendo, Co-Founder of Vifi Labs, emphasized the need for a Kenyan Shilling-backed stablecoin, arguing that it could strengthen the local crypto ecosystem and offer greater financial sovereignty. Meanwhile, Larry Cooke, a Binance spokesperson, explained the role of the Virtual Assets Chamber in advocating for regulatory clarity and industry growth.
“The Virtual Assets Chamber is working tirelessly to ensure that there is a supportive framework for virtual assets and crypto-related industries in Kenya and beyond,” Cooke said. “This effort is crucial to the growth of the market.”
Binance continues to engage with regulators in Kenya and across Africa, seeking to develop policies that encourage innovation while ensuring investor protection and long-term industry sustainability. With Kenya’s tech sector rapidly evolving, the company’s efforts signal a broader push toward integrating blockchain technology into the country’s expanding digital economy.