Binance and Virtual Assets Chamber applaud progress on Kenya's crypto regulation
Published on: June 11, 2025 05:28 (EAT)
Binance, the world’s leading blockchain ecosystem by volume, and the Virtual Assets Chamber (VAC) spoke with members of the media in Nairobi this week to reinforce their support for inclusive, innovation-driven crypto regulations in Kenya.
Applauding the progress made through the Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) Bill, the two organisations called for a balanced and innovation-focused approach to taxation that can unlock the full potential of Kenya’s emerging crypto economy.
The joint press conference, led by Larry Cooke, Binance’s Head of Legal for Africa, and Allan Kakai, Director of VAC, celebrated the VASP Bill as a major step forward while encouraging continued refinement to ensure that tax policy supports sustainable growth and innovation.
Cooke and Kakai commended ongoing efforts to bring clarity to the digital asset space but noted that aligning tax policy with this forward momentum is key to ensuring that Kenya doesn’t miss the opportunity to become Africa’s digital asset hub.
Their comments come a day before their joint appearance at the Kenya Blockchain & Crypto Conference (KBCC), where the two leaders will engage in a fireside chat exploring the broader regulatory outlook. The media engagement helped deepen the conversation, offering clarity on why collaborative policymaking is vital for Kenya’s digital future.
“We are committed to working with policymakers to carve out regulations that are suitable for companies operating in Africa and users based in Africa,” said Larry Cooke. “While the VASP Bill is a welcome move, the current tax approach risks slowing progress. We’ve proposed a model that encourages industry growth, protects everyday users and avoids overburdening users.”
“Kenya is already leading the way with proactive policymaking,” added Cooke. “With smart, enabling tax policies, it can become the epicentre of blockchain innovation on the continent.”
Both leaders reiterated their shared vision of Kenya becoming the capital of crypto in Africa, a hub capable of supporting companies that serve all 54 African countries and over 300 million people.
“With the right regulations, those that promote innovation, attract investment, and expand economic opportunity, Kenya can lead the continent,” said Allan Kakai. “Positive policies will unlock job creation, increase government revenue, and bring more traditional finance players into the space.”
“Partnering with local experts like the VAC has been incredibly important to Binance,” added Cooke. “Our work with Allan and his team has helped ensure that regulatory conversations are grounded in local realities and global best practice.”
“This is Kenya’s moment,” said Kakai. “We’re proud to contribute to a framework that balances opportunity, responsibility, and long-term growth.”
Both parties also emphasised the importance of sector-wide education for users, professionals, and enforcement bodies alike.
“Education is critical,” said Kakai. “Binance is leading in this space, but we all need to ensure that lawyers, accountants, and regulators are empowered. The entire ecosystem must be supported for responsible growth to happen.”
Kakai concluded by underscoring Kenya’s broader influence on the continent. “The frameworks being developed here could become the gold standard, not just for Africa, but globally.”
The Binance–VAC partnership reflects a sustained commitment to helping shape a regulatory landscape that fosters growth, protects users, and positions Kenya at the forefront of the global digital finance economy.