The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has announced the extension of operating period for the Kenya Electronic Payment and Settlement System (KEPSS) by four hours during business days effective July 1, 2025. 

In a statement on Wednesday, CBK said KEPSS operating times have been revised from the current 8:30AM–4:30PM to 7:00AM–7:00PM. 

“Following extensive consultation with participants of the system and in alignment with the objectives outlined in the National Payments Strategy 2022–2025, the KEPSS operating hours will be revised from the current 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. to the new schedule of 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on all business days with the exception of public holidays and weekends,” read the CBK statement in part.

KEPPS is a crucial component of the Kenyan National Payments System that enables real-time gross settlement of large value transactions between commercial banks and other authorized participants and is managed by the Central Bank of Kenya. The system ensures the finality and irrevocability of transactions through the use of settlement accounts held by participants at the CBK.

According to CBK, the enhancement is aimed at improving the efficiency, accessibility, and resilience of Kenya’s payments ecosystem.

“By enabling earlier initiation and later completion of large-value and time-sensitive payments, this move will support the country’s transition towards a 24/7 digital economy,” CBK noted.

The CBK further explained that the extension is in line with global best practices, as central banks around the world are modernizing their payment systems to enhance regional integration and improve the interoperability of cross-border payments.

The bank pointed out that the extension will enhance convenience as businesses, government institutions, and financial institutions will have greater flexibility to process payments. This will in turn, improve cash flow management and consequently reduce end-of-day settlement risks.

CBK also mentioned that the new strategy will support a round the clock economy as the longer operational hours will bridge the gap between traditional banking hours and the demands of a modern economy, facilitating seamless transactions across time zones and increasing the competitiveness of Kenya as a regional financial hub.

“By expanding the time window for settlements, CBK reinforces its commitment to greater financial inclusion, allowing more individuals and entities to engage in the formal financial system with ease,” CBK said.

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