Kenya is gearing up to launch its own digital coin, a move that could position the country at the forefront of Africa’s fast-growing financial technology revolution.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga announced the initiative on his official X page, describing it as “an ambitious step towards strengthening financial systems and supporting sustainable economic growth across Kenya, Africa and the rest of the world.”
"We are pleased to announce that Kenya Token will soon launch. A new digital asset aimed at improving our financial system and supporting economic growth. Kenya is stepping up to lead Africa into the crypto revolution, embracing digital finance and shaping a more crypto-friendly future," Raila said.
According to the announcement, the new digital asset, dubbed the Kenya Token, will be built on the Solana blockchain, chosen for its speed, scalability and low transaction costs.
The Kenya Token is being framed as more than just a cryptocurrency. Advocates say it has the potential to modernize the financial system by making digital transactions faster, cheaper and more inclusive.
By leveraging blockchain technology, the token is expected to provide new opportunities for young people and innovators in Kenya to access global financial markets, invest, trade and build digital businesses.
Raila emphasized that the token represents not just a financial tool, but a step toward economic empowerment, particularly for youth and small businesses that have often been left out of mainstream finance.
Supporters argue that Kenya’s bold step could cement its position as a continental leader in digital finance, echoing the country’s history of fintech innovation with platforms like M-Pesa.
They see the Kenya Token as part of a broader effort to create a more crypto-friendly environment and to attract investment into the country’s tech ecosystem.
As Kenya prepares for the launch, global attention is turning to Nairobi to see whether this ambitious move will pave the way for sustainable digital finance or fuel fresh controversy in Africa’s evolving crypto landscape.
