Nairobi, Kenya – January 30, 2026 – Kenya’s forex market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 100,000 active retail traders and a daily trading volume of USD 9.6 trillion, a 28% increase since 2022. To address concerns and promote financial literacy, industry leaders convened at a press briefing to distinguish legitimate investment from gambling and chart a pathway for Africa’s digital trading future.
Speaking at the briefing, Mr. Zack Kiratu, Director of Azelia Expo Ltd., emphasized that forex trading is a “strategic, skill-based investment” requiring education, technical analysis, and risk management. Dr. Peter Onyango, CEO of Empire FX, highlighted Kenya’s pioneering role in forex regulation, noting that the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) ensures licensed brokers maintain segregated client accounts and provide clear risk warnings.
The CMA has introduced reforms to enhance safety, transparency, and consumer protection, including suitability checks, leverage caps, and mandatory risk tutorials. These changes aim to align Kenya’s forex market with global best practices and adapt to local realities like high data costs and mobile-first usage.
The Africa Forex Trading Expo 2026, scheduled for March 10-11 at Sarit Expo Centre, Nairobi, will provide hands-on training, connect traders with regulated brokers, and foster dialogue between industry players and regulators. Themed “Smart Money, Smart Africa: The Future of Forex & Digital Trading,” the event aims to promote financial literacy and responsible trading practices.
Industry experts predict AI-powered tools will transform retail platforms, offering predictive insights and risk management features. With smartphone penetration exceeding 50% and robust internet infrastructure, Kenya is poised to lead Africa’s digital trading revolution.
As Kenya’s forex landscape evolves, educated traders who combine regulatory protections with responsible AI use are best positioned to succeed. “The question is no longer whether Africans will participate in global markets, but whether they’ll do so with the knowledge to succeed,” said Ms. Brenda Bett, Head of Operations at Empire FX.
Addressing Kenya’s Youth Employment Crisis
The call for forex literacy comes against the backdrop of Kenya’s persistent youth unemployment challenge. With over 75% of the population under 35 and the formal sector absorbing fewer than half of the 800,000 young Kenyans entering the job market annually, the panelists argued thatalternative income pathways have become increasingly critical.
The speakers outlined several advantages forex trading offers young Kenyans: low barriers to entry with modest starting capital, flexibility to trade from anywhere with a smartphone and internet connection, a 24-hour market compatible with other work or studies, and the potential for passive income generation.
However, they cautioned that these benefits only materialize with proper education. Industry statistics indicate that 70-80% of retail traders lose money – primarily due to lack of training, poor risk management, and emotional trading decisions.
Africa Forex Trading Expo 2026: Bridging the Knowledge Gap
The panelists announced that the Africa Forex Trading Expo 2026 will address these challenges head-on. Themed “Smart Money, Smart Africa; The Future of Forex & Digital Trading”, the two day event will provide hands-on training, connect traders with regulated brokers and PSPs, and foster dialogue between industry players and regulators.
The expo will feature live trading demonstrations, expert panel discussions, workshops for both beginners and experienced traders, and exhibition booths from licensed brokers, Crypto Exchanges, Payment Service Providers, and fintech companies. Pre-event activities include an IB (Introducing Broker) cocktail on 9th March and a Gala Dinner on 10th March.
Empire FX was confirmed as Main Sponsor of the event, with Xelans Markets joining as Platinum
Sponsor.
