Blockchain forum in Nairobi to focus on policy reforms

• Kenya Blockchain and Crypto Conference (KBCC) 2025 returns for its third edition in Nairobi seeking to tackle innovation, mass adoption and policy reforms.
• The June 12-13 forum comes at a pivotal moment for the Kenyan blockchain space as the recently tabled Finance Bill 2025 proposes a cut in Digital Asset Tax (DAT).
• This is from 3% to 1.5%, signaling responsiveness to industry concerns and ongoing public-private dialogue.

Kenya is set to host one of Africa’s most influential gatherings in the blockchain and digital asset space as the Kenya Blockchain and Crypto Conference (KBCC) 2025 returns for its third edition in Nairobi. Powered by Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, KBCC 2025 to be held at the A.S.K Dome in Nairobi, between June 12–13, will bring together over 1,500 participants from across the continent.

They include developers, regulators, banks, fintechs, startups, global protocols and policy shapers—under this year’s theme dubbed “Driving blockchain innovation and mass adoption.”

The two-day summit is aimed at empowering innovation and policy alignment in the country and the region. Key sessions will include blockchain for business, institutional adoption and regulation.

With over 500 policy and industry stakeholders, the first session will focus on regulation, compliance and practical adoption of blockchain across sectors such as finance, government and trade. The summit will also focus on building on chain: Scaling Web3 Solutions, a developer track targeting more than 800 web3 builders.

It will also have a Startup Track for 100 early-stage founders, featuring demo sessions, workshops and a startup pitch showcase.

Strong industry backing

In addition to Binance, KBCC 2025 is supported by a growing list of official sponsors, including: Bitget, Sumsub, Busha, Tether, Telcoin, Lisk DAO, Base, Bybit, Kotani Pay, MexC, Payd and Project Mocha.

Strategic partners include the Association of Fintechs in Kenya, the Digital Financial Services Association of Kenya (DFSAK), Virtual Assets Chamber of Commerce and key ecosystem collaborators across the continent.

Speakers will include Andrew Letting-Africa Growth Lead, Bitget, Saruni Maina (Regional Operations Lead – Africa, Binance) Eng. Andrew Masila – Research, Development and Innovation Lead, Safaricom, Tim Theuri- Executive Head of Cybersecurity, M-Pesa Africa and Tatenda Chinodakufa – Business Development Manager, Africa, Sumsub.

Others are Nickson Omondi- Manager, Digital Economy Tax Office, Kenya Revenue Authority, Dr. Bright Gameli – Founder, Africahackon, Allan Kakai – Director,Virtual Assets Chamber of Commerce and Nathaniel Luz , president, Africa Stablecoin Network.

Read also: Can BRICS’s 17; blockchain currency bid usher in a new era of economic freedom?

Policy momentum: Finance Bill 2025 & VASP regulation

KBCC 2025 comes at a pivotal moment for the Kenyan blockchain space as the recently tabled Finance Bill 2025 proposes a reduction in the Digital Asset Tax (DAT) from three per cent to 1.5 per cent, signaling responsiveness to industry concerns and ongoing public-private dialogue.

Additionally, the long-anticipated Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP) Bill has been formally tabled in Parliament, aiming to establish a regulatory framework for digital asset businesses in Kenya.

The bill outlines requirements for licensing, compliance, consumer protection and anti-money laundering, positioning Kenya to become a regulated hub for blockchain innovation.

KBCC 2025 will provide a timely forum for unpacking these developments and aligning ecosystem stakeholders—including regulators, developers, and financial institutions—on how to foster innovation while ensuring compliance and sustainability.

A platform to shape Africa’s blockchain future

“At KBCC 2025, our focus is on education for mass adoption. We’re inviting businesses, innovators and everyday citizens to engage with blockchain technology and explore its practical value,” said Sheila Waswa, CEO of Chasing Mavericks and Events Lead for KBCC 2025.

Bitget CEO Gracy Chen noted that Africa’s role in the global crypto economy is evolving rapidly, and Kenya is at the center of this transformation.

“KBCC 2025 reflects the region’s growing appetite for innovation, regulation, and real-world blockchain adoption. At Bitget, we believe in building the tools, partnerships, and ecosystems that empower communities to take control of their financial futures. We are proud to support this important gathering as it fosters dialogue and drives action for sustainable Web3 growth across the continent,” Chen said.

As Africa’s blockchain ecosystem matures, robust identity verification and compliance frameworks become critical to fostering trust and enabling mass adoption, says Tatenda Chinodakufa, Regional Business Development Director for Africa at Sumsub.

“At KBCC 2025, we will explore how innovative KYC/AML solutions can strike the balance between regulatory compliance and seamless user onboarding, ensuring Africa’s Web3 growth is both secure and scalable. Kenya’s progressive steps with the VASP Bill set a precedent for the continent and we’re excited to collaborate with regulators and builders to shape this future.”

Read also: Blockchain in Governance: Enhancing Transparency and Trust in Public Systems