• Kenya plans to launch a digital platform to automate external debt payments, improving transparency and reducing processing delays.
• External debt totals roughly $42 billion, nearly half of the country’s public debt.
• The platform integrates key systems, including Meridian debt management and the Central Bank exchange-rate system.

Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo disclosed the initiative on January 27, following a project briefing attended by officials from the Budget Office, Auditor General, and World Bank representatives.

The system is scheduled to go live on Monday, February 2, 2026, with a one-month parallel run to ensure a secure transition.

The platform will integrate several core components: the Meridian debt management system, the Central Bank of Kenya’s exchange-rate system, and the Treasury’s payment request and approval processes.

This architecture will automate the entire payment chain—from instruction generation to approval and execution—replacing manual workflows with secure digital processes.

Chris Kiptoo said the platform “should reduce delays and errors while improving oversight of the country’s financial obligations.”

Kenya’s external debt stood at about 5.5 trillion shillings ($42 billion) at the end of 2025, nearly half of its total public debt, which exceeds 11 trillion shillings.

Fitch Ratings highlighted growing financing needs and stressed the importance of efficiently managing external borrowing in 2026.

The digital platform aims to accelerate transaction processing, enhance transparency, and improve public fund traceability. It should also facilitate coordination among government agencies and strengthen financial oversight.

The Treasury acknowledges potential cybersecurity risks in moving to a fully digital system.

Officials must safeguard against intrusions, fraud, and technical failures. Protecting sensitive data and ensuring system resilience will be critical to guarantee reliable and uninterrupted debt service.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de BERRY QUENUM