Kenya’s cryptocurrency market continues to expand, supported by high mobile penetration, widespread use of mobile money platforms such as M-PESA, and a youthful population keen on digital finance. With the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) moving toward a clearer regulatory framework, including the 3% Digital Assets Tax (DAT), local traders are increasingly evaluating the best crypto exchange platforms in Kenya.
Below are some of the best crypto platforms in Kenya currently attracting users.
Binance
Binance remains one of the most popular crypto exchange platforms in Kenya. As the world’s largest exchange by trading volume, it supports over 350 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. Its peer-to-peer (P2P) marketplace enables direct trades in Kenyan Shillings (KES) via M-PESA, Airtel Money, and bank transfers.
Binance charges spot trading fees of 0.1%, which can be reduced when paying with Binance Coin (BNB). Features include futures trading with up to 125x leverage, staking, and an NFT marketplace. Security is a priority, with cold storage for 98% of funds, two-factor authentication, and a Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU). While the platform offers extensive functionality, its complex interface may challenge beginners.
Bybit
Bybit is gaining traction among experienced Kenyan traders for its advanced trading features and deep liquidity. The platform supports spot trading, perpetual futures, and options with leverage of up to 100x. It offers trading bots, a demo account, and analytics through TradeGPT.
For spot trading, fees start at 0.1%, while futures transactions charge 0.055% (taker) and 0.02% (maker). Bybit also supports peer-to-peer trading for KES, though its payment options are fewer compared to Binance. The platform emphasizes security with proof-of-reserve audits and multi-signature wallets. Its features are well-suited to seasoned traders, but may be less friendly to newcomers.
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KuCoin
KuCoin is one of the best crypto platforms in Kenya for traders seeking variety, offering access to more than 900 cryptocurrencies. It provides margin trading, futures, and passive income through KuCoin Earn, which supports staking, lending, and savings accounts with competitive returns.
Trading fees start at 0.1% for common coins, with discounts available for higher-tier users. KES transactions are supported through bank transfers. Security includes proof-of-reserves audits and multi-layer encryption. KuCoin’s mobile app and interface are simple enough for beginners, but it is especially appealing for users interested in diversifying into less common tokens.
Busha
Busha, a Nigerian-based crypto exchange expanding into Kenya, is designed for simplicity and accessibility. The platform supports popular assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT, with an emphasis on user-friendly trading. Its integration with M-PESA and mobile money services makes it convenient for Kenyan users.
Busha’s platform offers recurring buy options for dollar-cost averaging, low trading fees, and instant KES deposits. While it lacks advanced trading tools, it is well-suited for beginners looking for straightforward crypto access.
Paxful
Paxful is a peer-to-peer marketplace widely used in Kenya thanks to its flexibility. It supports over 350 payment methods, including mobile money, bank transfers, and even gift cards. Its escrow system helps secure trades, though users must take care to verify counterparties.
The platform charges sellers a 1% fee but allows buyers to trade crypto without direct fees. However, it supports only Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether, limiting diversification. Paxful’s strength lies in its accessibility and adaptability for local payments.
Yellow Card
Yellow Card has grown rapidly across Africa, with a strong presence in Kenya. The exchange supports major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum and integrates with M-PESA and bank transfers. Deposits attract service fees of around 1% for bank transfers and 2% for mobile money.
The platform is simple to use and offers customer support in English and Swahili. While its coin selection is limited compared to Binance or KuCoin, Yellow Card is focused on accessibility, education, and compliance within African markets.
Jefferson Wachira is a writer at Africa Digest News, specializing in banking and finance trends, and their impact on African economies.