The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has extended the operating hours for the Kenya Electronic Payment and Settlement System (KEPSS). Starting July 1, 2025, KEPSS will now operate from 7 am to 7 pm on business days. Previously, the system ran from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, limiting early and late-day transactions.
This change is part of CBK’s efforts to modernize Kenya’s financial systems. It also aligns with the goals of the National Payments Strategy 2022–2025. According to CBK, this adjustment will improve the efficiency, accessibility, and resilience of the payments ecosystem.
Boosting a Digital Economy
KEPSS is essential for processing large-value and time-sensitive payments in real time. Extending the hours will allow businesses to handle urgent transactions earlier and later in the day. This supports Kenya’s transition to a 24/7 digital economy.
In its June 18, 2025 statement, CBK emphasized that longer hours will reduce settlement risks and improve cash flow management. Furthermore, these changes enhance the flexibility of cross-border transactions. They also promote financial inclusion, benefiting small businesses and individuals.
The Role of ISO 20022
In October 2024, CBK migrated KEPSS to ISO 20022, an international financial messaging standard. This shift enabled faster settlement times, better liquidity management, and streamlined processes. ISO 20022, introduced in 2004, uses XML to enable seamless communication between financial systems.
This migration has strengthened Kenya’s role as a regional financial hub. It also positioned the country to meet global standards in payment infrastructure.
National Support for the Changes
National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi highlighted this transition during the 2025 budget reading. He announced that KEPSS would move toward 24/7 settlement capability starting in July. This commitment reflects the government’s dedication to a modern, efficient financial system.
CBK Governor Dr. Kamau Thugge affirmed that longer hours will make payment management easier for businesses. This change also reduces settlement risks and boosts cash flow efficiency in various sectors.
Aligning with Global Trends
Extending KEPSS operating hours aligns Kenya with international best practices. Many countries are modernizing their payment systems to support economic growth. By improving its systems, Kenya remains competitive as a financial leader in East Africa.
CBK’s adjustments also support broader financial inclusion goals. Extended hours will encourage more businesses to adopt digital payment solutions. This brings Kenya closer to becoming a fully digital economy.
Read: Treasury Reverses Proposal to Block CBK from Managing T-Bills and Bonds
Looking Forward
As KEPSS transitions to 24/7 settlement capability, CBK plans to continue enhancing the national payment infrastructure. These changes are essential for meeting the evolving needs of Kenya’s economy.
The new hours are a key step toward reducing risks and improving efficiency. They will also help businesses, individuals, and institutions manage payments effectively.
Conclusion
Extending KEPSS hours is a milestone for Kenya’s financial sector. This move, supported by ISO 20022, positions Kenya as a leader in regional financial modernization. With these changes, the country is set to achieve its vision of a fully digital, 24/7 economy.
