CBK Extends KEPSS Hours to Boost Efficiency in Digital Payments

The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has announced a significant extension of operating hours for the Kenya Electronic Payment and Settlement System (KEPSS), its national Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) system, a move set to enhance the efficiency of financial transactions across the country starting July 1, 2025.

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In a statement released on Wednesday, CBK noted that this follows  an 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 part of the statement.

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.

Benefits of the Extended Hours

CBK said Businesses, government institutions, and financial institutions will have greater flexibility to process payments, improving cash flow management and reducing end-of-day settlement risks.

This will facilitate seamless transactions across the  time zones and increase the competitiveness of Kenya as a regional financial hub.

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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.

Meanwhile, this extension mirrors the progressive steps taken by central banks globally to modernize their payment systems, enhancing regional integration and interoperability of cross-border payments.

CBK remains committed to ensuring that the national payments infrastructure continues to meet the evolving needs of the economy and to fostering a secure, efficient, and inclusive financial system.