Cryptocurrency
IMF Urges Kenya to Enhance Cryptocurrency Regulations
Thursday. January 9 at 2:00 PM
1 min. readThe International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recommended that Kenya establish a transparent and consistent regulatory framework for the cryptocurrency market to safeguard consumers and tackle risks associated with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT). In a technical assistance report released on Jan. 8, the IMF emphasized the need for updated regulations in Kenya, as the current laws do not effectively govern crypto markets, leading to an increase in scams and illicit activities. The IMF advised Kenya to align its crypto regulations with international standards, such as the Bali Fintech Agenda, FATF Recommendations, and the FSB Global Regulatory Framework. Short-term recommendations include data analysis and collaboration among regulatory bodies, while medium to long-term suggestions involve implementing a legal framework and enhancing supervisory resources. The IMF also stressed the importance of engaging with foreign regulators to manage risks from international exchanges operating in Kenya.