Kenya continues to rely heavily on traditional cheque payments in 2025, with paper based instruments processing more than Sh200 billion in transactions every month, even as digital payment methods expand rapidly across the country and the rest of Africa. This ongoing reliance persists despite Kenya’s global reputation as a leader in mobile money adoption and real time electronic payments.
Data from the Central Bank of Kenya shows that in the eleven months to November 2025, cheques handled an average of Sh201.44 billion per month, bringing the total value for the period to approximately Sh2.215 trillion. Corporate institutions, government agencies, and large businesses remain the main users of cheque payments, particularly for supplier settlements, contract obligations, and high value transactions.
Kenya’s payment ecosystem has evolved significantly over the past decade. Mobile money platforms, agency banking, and real time interbank transfers now handle trillions of shillings annually. In 2024, mobile money agent transactions alone exceeded Sh8 trillion, reflecting widespread adoption for everyday payments such as utilities, retail purchases, and peer to peer transfers.
Despite this digital growth, cheques continue to serve a specific role in the financial system. Many businesses prefer cheques because they provide physical documentation, formal approval processes, and clear audit trails. A senior Sacco executive explained in a December 2025 industry briefing that “while individuals have embraced mobile payments, most large supplier and institutional payments still rely on cheques due to familiarity and internal control requirements.”
The Central Bank of Kenya has acknowledged this dual system in its National Payments Strategy. The regulator has noted that while digital channels are expanding, a gradual transition is necessary to avoid excluding businesses and individuals who still depend on cheque based transactions. Rather than eliminating cheques, Kenya has focused on improving clearing timelines and strengthening oversight of paper based instruments.
Across Africa, several countries are moving faster to phase out cheques. Burkina Faso eliminated cheque use in public financial operations starting in October 2025, citing inefficiencies and the availability of electronic alternatives. Other countries such as Zambia and Seychelles have also shifted toward fully digital payment systems to improve speed, transparency, and cost efficiency.
In contrast, Kenya has chosen a more measured approach. Banks continue to invest in faster cheque clearing systems while expanding digital infrastructure. This allows businesses to maintain traditional payment methods while gradually adapting to electronic alternatives.
Economists note that the persistence of cheques reflects Kenya’s diverse economic structure. Large corporations, construction firms, and public institutions often require formal payment instruments that align with procurement and compliance processes. At the same time, households and small businesses increasingly rely on mobile money for convenience. The coexistence of paper based and electronic systems reflects a balance between innovation and inclusion in one of Africa’s most dynamic financial markets.
