Nairobi conference to spotlight stablecoins as banks, fintechs debate future of payments

NAIROBI,Kenya,Apr 23-Africa’s financial sector is bracing for intensified debate over the future of payments infrastructure, as banks, fintechs, telecoms, and regulators gather in Nairobi for discussions centred on stablecoins, cross-border settlement, and digital finance systems.

The conversations expected at the Kenya Blockchain and Crypto Conference (KBCC 2026) on 14–15 May will largely focus on how stablecoins and blockchain-based rails are reshaping money movement across the continent, particularly in areas such as remittances, merchant payments, and treasury management.

Stablecoins;led by USDT have become a key talking point in global payments. In 2025, USDT processed more than $13 trillion in transfer volume, averaging $35 billion daily and serving an estimated 576 million users worldwide.

In Africa, adoption has been accelerating, with usage growing 18.6% year-on-year, driven by demand for faster, cheaper cross-border transactions and improved liquidity management.

Industry players say the shift reflects practical business needs rather than speculation.

“Africa, with mobile money for the last 15 years, has been at the forefront of digital wallet and digital wallet commerce,”said Pawapay CTO Dave Evans.

“The addition of stablecoin flows is a natural extension of what has always become commonplace with African consumers,Adoption will be led by businesses solving real problems on the ground.”

Fintech firms argue stablecoins are increasingly being used to reduce settlement times and foreign exchange costs, while enabling 24/7 payments.

“The true ‘Stablecoin Revolution’ isn’t about the technology itself; it’s about real-world utility and institutional-grade access,” said David Nandwa, CEO of HoneyCoin.

Regulation is also expected to feature prominently, with industry data showing improved compliance outcomes.

Tether reports working with over 310 law enforcement agencies globally and freezing more than $4 billion in illicit funds, while TRM Labs notes a 60% drop in sanctions-related activity involving stablecoins between 2024 and 2025.

“As the largest crypto exchange in Africa by trade volume,we are excited to build out our presence in the Kenyan market,” said Ben Caselin of VALR.

Participants will include senior leaders from OKX, SWIFT, VALR, Luno, and the Nairobi International Financial Centre Authority.