Crypto Use in Kenya: Everyday Payments Possible?
Can Kenyans Buy Bread with Crypto? Experts Discuss Everyday Use of Digital Assets
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Nairobi, Kenya – As cryptocurrency adoption continues to rise in Kenya, many wonder if digital assets can be used for everyday transactions, such as buying bread at the local supermarket. Experts at the Africa Tech Summit 2025 weighed in on how crypto is bridging the gap between digital and traditional finance.
Kenya, ranked among Africa's top countries for crypto trading, has seen a surge in blockchain engagement, driven by its tech-savvy youth. Mobile money platforms like M-Pesa have further paved the way for digital finance, making crypto adoption a natural progression.
Stablecoins: The Solution to Crypto Volatility
Derrick Bundi, founder of Pretium, explained that stablecoins—such as USDT, USDC, and cUSD—offer a practical solution by maintaining a fixed value. "We enable direct payments using stablecoins for goods and services at supermarkets, grocery shops, and petrol stations, just like regular currency," Bundi said.
Through the Pretium app, users can make payments directly to M-Pesa tills and Paybills without converting crypto to Kenyan Shillings first. This innovation simplifies transactions while shielding merchants from handling cryptocurrencies directly.
Bridging the Gap Between Crypto and Traditional Finance
Sharon Tum, East Africa Regional Manager at Yellow Card, clarified that while cryptocurrencies are not legal tender in Kenya, platforms like Yellow Card act as digital asset exchanges. "Think of it as a forex bureau. You bring your USDT, we convert it to Kenyan Shillings, and you can spend as you wish," she explained.
Tum emphasized that Kenya's regulatory environment is evolving to accommodate digital assets and establish a legal framework for crypto services.
The Future of Crypto Payments in Kenya
While crypto cannot yet be used directly for supermarket purchases, platforms like Pretium and Yellow Card are closing the gap by facilitating seamless conversions and stablecoin payments. As regulatory frameworks solidify and technology advances, everyday crypto transactions in Kenya could soon become a reality.
