Cryptocurrency is rapidly gaining ground in Kenya, with many people turning to digital assets as an alternative investment or a way to send and receive money across borders.
Among the many platforms available, Binance stands out as one of the most popular and trusted cryptocurrency exchanges.
But for many Kenyans, understanding how Binance works and how to use it safely and effectively remains a challenge.
If you’re new to the crypto world and wondering how Binance works in Kenya, this beginner’s guide is tailor-made for you.
I’ll walk you through the basics, from what Binance is and how it operates, to how you can register, verify your account, deposit funds via M-Pesa, and trade securely from the comfort of your home.
Whether you’re looking to invest in Bitcoin, explore altcoins, or just understand how crypto trading works, this guide will give you all the key steps.
Let’s start with the basics.
What is Binance?
Binance is a global cryptocurrency exchange that allows users to buy, sell, and trade a wide range of digital assets. Launched in July 2017 by Changpeng Zhao (commonly known as CZ), Binance quickly rose to become one of the world’s leading crypto platforms due to its user-friendly interface, high liquidity, and low trading fees.
Initially, Binance was headquartered in China but it has relocated several times due to regulatory challenges and now operates globally without a single central location.
The platform offers access to hundreds of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Binance Coin (BNB), and many others.
In Kenya, Binance has grown increasingly popular because it supports mobile money options like M-Pesa, making it easier for locals to deposit and withdraw funds.
Additionally, Binance provides services such as spot trading, P2P (peer-to-peer) trading, futures, staking, and savings, all accessible through a mobile app or web browser.
How to Register and Verify Your Binance Account in Kenya
Getting started with Binance in Kenya is quite straightforward. Whether you’re using a smartphone or a computer, the process of registration and verification is user-friendly and only takes a few minutes.
Here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown to help you create your Binance account and complete identity verification (KYC) successfully.
Step 1: Visit the Official Binance Website or Download the App
To start, go to the official Binance website www.binance.com or download the Binance app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Make sure you’re on the correct platform to avoid phishing scams. You can also change the language and currency settings to English (Kenya) and KES for a more personalized experience.
Using the app is often more convenient in Kenya, especially for M-Pesa users, as the mobile interface simplifies deposits and trading.
Step 2: Click on “Register” and Enter Your Details
Click the “Register” button on the home page. You’ll be asked to sign up using your email address or mobile number. Choose whichever method you’re comfortable with.
Next, create a strong password. Ensure your password contains a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters for better security.
Once entered, you’ll receive a verification code via email or SMS. Enter this code to verify your contact info and proceed.
Step 3: Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
For security reasons, Binance requires users to set up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). You can use Google Authenticator or SMS-based 2FA.
2FA helps protect your account from unauthorized access. Every time you log in or withdraw funds, you’ll be prompted to enter a code from your 2FA app or phone.
This is especially important in Kenya where mobile phishing scams and SIM swaps are becoming more common.
Step 4: Complete Identity Verification (KYC)
After account setup, you must complete KYC (Know Your Customer) to unlock full access—especially for features like P2P trading and higher withdrawal limits.
Go to your dashboard and click on “Verify”. You’ll be asked to provide personal details like your full name, ID/passport number, and residential address.
Then, upload a clear photo of your national ID or passport, and a selfie to verify your identity. Binance will review your information and approve your account within minutes or up to 24 hours.
Step 5: Link M-Pesa or Bank for Deposits (Optional at This Stage)
After verification, you can choose to link your M-Pesa or bank account through Binance P2P when you’re ready to trade or deposit funds.
While this isn’t required during registration, having your payment method ready makes the trading process faster and more seamless.
How to Deposit Money to Binance Using M-Pesa in Kenya
One of the biggest advantages of using Binance in Kenya is the ability to fund your account using M-Pesa, the country’s most popular mobile money service.
Binance makes this process smooth through its Peer-to-Peer (P2P) platform, allowing you to buy crypto directly from verified sellers using M-Pesa.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you deposit money to Binance using M-Pesa.
Step 1: Open the Binance App or Website and Log In
Start by logging into your verified Binance account using the app or desktop site.
Make sure your 2FA is active to keep your account secure. Once logged in, go to the “P2P Trading” section located on the homepage or under the “Trade” menu.
Select your preferred currency as KES (Kenyan Shilling) so you can see sellers offering M-Pesa payments.
Step 2: Navigate to “Buy” and Choose the Cryptocurrency
In the P2P section, select the “Buy” tab and choose the cryptocurrency you want to purchase—such as USDT (Tether), BTC (Bitcoin), or BNB (Binance Coin).
You’ll see a list of sellers, each displaying the exchange rate, limits, and accepted payment method.
Look for sellers that accept M-Pesa and have a good reputation (check their completion rate and reviews).
Click “Buy” on a seller that meets your criteria.
Step 3: Enter the Amount You Want to Purchase
Next, enter the amount of Kenyan Shillings (KES) you want to use to buy crypto, or enter how much crypto you wish to receive.
Confirm that the order falls within the seller’s transaction limits, then click “Buy Now” to proceed with the trade.
You’ll be given the seller’s M-Pesa phone number to make the payment.
Step 4: Pay the Seller via M-Pesa
Open your M-Pesa menu on your phone and send the exact amount to the number provided by the seller. You can do this via:
M-Pesa > Lipa na M-Pesa > Send Money or Pay Bill (if the seller provided a Paybill number).
Once done, take a screenshot of your transaction or copy the confirmation message for reference.
Return to Binance and click “Transferred, notify seller.”
Step 5: Wait for the Seller to Release the Crypto
The seller will receive a notification that you’ve made the payment. Once they confirm the M-Pesa transaction, they’ll release the crypto to your Binance wallet.
This usually takes a few minutes, but Binance holds the crypto in escrow during the transaction to ensure security for both parties.
After the crypto is released, you’ll receive it in your Funding Wallet, and you can then move it to your Spot Wallet for trading.
How to Buy and Sell Crypto on Binance in Kenya
Once you’ve deposited funds using M-Pesa and received crypto in your Binance wallet, the next step is learning how to buy and sell cryptocurrencies.
Binance offers two main ways for Kenyan users to trade: P2P (peer-to-peer) and Spot Trading.
Below, I’ll walk you through both methods step by step.
Step 1: Choose Between P2P and Spot Trading
Binance offers flexibility depending on your trading needs:
- P2P trading is ideal if you want to buy/sell directly using M-Pesa with other users.
- Spot trading is great if you want to swap one crypto for another (like USDT to Bitcoin) using Binance’s exchange.
For beginners in Kenya, P2P is often the best starting point since it allows you to use Kenyan Shillings (KES) directly.
Step 2: To Buy Crypto via P2P, Go to the “Buy” Section
In the P2P Trading area, tap the “Buy” tab. Choose the crypto you want—like USDT, which is widely used as a stablecoin.
Scroll through the seller list, filter by M-Pesa, and check their completion rates and user reviews. Select a seller, input the amount in KES you wish to spend, and confirm the transaction.
Make payment through M-Pesa, and once the seller confirms receipt, your crypto will appear in your Binance wallet.
Step 3: To Sell Crypto via P2P, Tap the “Sell” Tab
When you’re ready to sell, go back to the P2P section and select the “Sell” tab.
Choose the crypto you want to sell, like USDT, and pick a buyer who uses M-Pesa. Enter the amount you want to sell, confirm the buyer’s rate, and proceed.
Once the buyer pays you via M-Pesa, confirm receipt of payment, then release the crypto to them.
Always double-check that the money has reflected in your M-Pesa account before releasing.
Step 4: Use Spot Trading for Crypto-to-Crypto Transactions
If you want to convert one crypto to another—say USDT to Bitcoin—go to the “Spot” section.
On the trading screen, search for the pair you want (e.g., BTC/USDT). Enter the amount you wish to buy or sell, and choose between Market (instant) or Limit (set your own price) orders.
Confirm the transaction, and your new crypto will appear in your Spot Wallet.
Step 5: Track Your Orders and Portfolio
Binance lets you track your open orders and crypto balances in real time.
To view your balances, go to “Wallet” > “Overview.” You’ll see separate wallets for Funding, Spot, Earn, and more. This helps you manage your investments effectively.
You can also view your trade history, performance charts, and even set price alerts to buy or sell at the best times.
How to Withdraw Money from Binance to M-Pesa in Kenya
After buying and trading crypto on Binance, you may want to withdraw your profits to M-Pesa. This is done using P2P trading, just like when you were depositing money.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it safely and quickly in Kenya.
Step 1: Move Crypto to Your Funding Wallet
Before you can sell crypto for M-Pesa, it needs to be in your Funding Wallet.
- Open the Binance app.
- Tap on Wallet > Funding.
- If your crypto is in the Spot Wallet, tap Transfer to move it to the Funding Wallet.
- Choose the crypto (e.g., USDT or BTC) and enter the amount, then confirm.
Now your crypto is ready for P2P trading.
Step 2: Go to P2P and Tap on “Sell”
From the Binance homepage, go to the P2P section.
- Tap on the “Sell” tab at the top.
- Select the crypto you want to sell, like USDT.
- Filter the buyer list by payment method: M-Pesa and currency: KES.
Choose a buyer with good ratings, many successful trades, and who’s offering a fair rate.
Step 3: Enter the Amount and Start the Sale
Tap on a buyer’s offer and:
- Enter the amount of crypto you want to sell (or the KES amount you want to receive).
- Confirm the details.
- Tap “Sell with 0 Fee.”
Your crypto is now locked in escrow while you wait for the buyer to send payment via M-Pesa.
Step 4: Wait for the Buyer to Pay You via M-Pesa
The buyer will send the KES directly to your M-Pesa account.
- Wait for an SMS from M-Pesa confirming you’ve received the money.
- Check your M-Pesa balance to confirm.
Do not release the crypto until the money is in your account.
Step 5: Confirm and Release the Crypto
Once you confirm payment:
- Go back to Binance and tap “Payment Received.”
- Confirm once more, and Binance will release the crypto to the buyer.
The transaction is now complete, and you have successfully converted your crypto into cash via M-Pesa.
Is Binance Safe and Legal in Kenya?
If you’re new to crypto, it’s natural to ask whether using Binance is safe and legal in Kenya.
With growing concerns around scams and unregulated platforms, it’s important to understand Binance’s status in Kenya and the safety measures you can take to protect your assets.
Step 1: Understand the Legal Landscape in Kenya
As of July 2025, Kenya does not have clear regulations for cryptocurrencies, meaning crypto trading is not illegal—but it is not officially regulated either.
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has issued warnings about the risks of trading in cryptocurrencies, but many Kenyans continue to use safe platforms like Binance for trading, investing, and even remittances.
Binance operates in Kenya primarily through its P2P marketplace, which connects users directly and facilitates payments via local methods like M-Pesa.
Step 2: Binance’s Security Features
Binance is one of the most trusted exchanges globally, with multiple layers of security to protect users.
These include Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), Anti-Phishing codes, withdrawal whitelisting, and device management.
Binance also has a Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) to compensate users in extreme cases of security breaches.
As a Kenyan user, enabling 2FA and being cautious with your login credentials and emails will go a long way in keeping your funds secure.
Step 3: P2P Trading Safety in Kenya
Binance protects P2P traders through an escrow system, meaning the crypto is held by Binance until the buyer confirms the M-Pesa payment, reducing the risk of fraud.
That said, it’s important to only trade with verified users, check their ratings and trade volume, and avoid off-platform deals.
Scammers often lure users to communicate outside Binance—avoid this at all costs.
Step 4: Taxation and Future Regulation in Kenya
Currently, crypto gains in Kenya may fall under capital gains tax, but enforcement is still evolving.
Experts suggest keeping records of your trades and profits, especially as Kenya explores crypto regulation.
In the future, Binance may integrate more local compliance features, such as tax reporting tools or local partnerships.
Step 5: Final Thoughts on Legality and Safety
In summary, Binance is safe to use in Kenya—but it’s up to you to trade responsibly.
While the platform is secure, you still need to protect your personal information, only trade with trusted users, and stay updated with local laws and Binance policies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Binance in Kenya
Using Binance in Kenya is easy once you get the hang of it, but many beginners make simple mistakes that can lead to loss of funds, delays, or account issues. Here are the most common errors and how to avoid them.
Step 1: Sending Crypto to the Wrong Network
One of the biggest mistakes is choosing the wrong network when transferring crypto.
For example, if you’re withdrawing USDT from Binance, you may see options like TRC20, ERC20, or BEP20.
If you send USDT using the wrong network, your funds could be lost forever.
Tip: Always confirm the correct network with the wallet or exchange you’re sending to. For P2P or M-Pesa transactions, you usually don’t need to worry about this—only when transferring between wallets or platforms.
Step 2: Releasing Crypto Before Confirming M-Pesa Payment
Many new users release crypto before the money reaches their M-Pesa account.
NEVER RELY ON JUST A MESSAGE FROM THE BUYER OR A SCREENSHOT. ALWAYS CHECK YOUR M-PESA BALANCE OR CONFIRMATION SMS BEFORE TAPPING “RELEASE CRYPTO.”
Once released, the transaction is complete, and you CANNOT get the crypto back if it was a scam.
Step 3: Trading with Unverified or Low-Rated Users
Binance P2P shows you ratings and success rates of buyers and sellers. Many beginners skip checking this and end up with delayed or failed transactions.
Tip: Only trade with users who have:
- A high completion rate (90% or more),
- Many completed trades (hundreds or thousands),
- A green verified badge.
Step 4: Using Third-Party Apps or Fake Binance Links
Scammers often create fake Binance apps or phishing websites to steal login details.
Only download the Binance app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store, and always double-check the website address: www.binance.com.
Avoid clicking on Binance links sent to you on WhatsApp, Telegram, or Facebook.
Step 5: Ignoring 2FA and Security Settings
If you don’t enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), your account is vulnerable to hacks.
Also, avoid logging into your Binance account using public Wi-Fi or shared devices. Always log out after use, and never share your login info.
Binance also allows you to lock withdrawals and get alerts for unusual login attempts—turn these features on in your Security Settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Using Binance in Kenya
Q: Can I use M-Pesa to fund my Binance account directly?
A: No, Binance does not support direct M-Pesa deposits into your account. However, you can use Binance P2P to buy crypto from other users who accept M-Pesa as a payment method. This is the most common and convenient method for Kenyans.
Q: Is it legal to use Binance in Kenya?
A: Currently, using Binance in Kenya is not illegal, but it’s also not regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya. You can trade and use the platform freely at your own risk. Always stay updated on any future policy or tax changes related to crypto.
Q: Are there Binance agents or offices in Kenya?
A: No, Binance does not operate a physical office in Kenya. Everything is handled online through the website or app. Be cautious of people claiming to be Binance agents—there are no official agents for deposits, trades, or account support in Kenya.
Q: What’s the best crypto to buy with Kenyan Shillings (KES) on Binance?
A: The most popular crypto to buy with KES via P2P is USDT (Tether) because it’s a stablecoin and easy to use for trading or saving. Once you have USDT, you can convert it to other coins like Bitcoin or Ethereum using Binance’s spot market.
Q: How long does it take to receive M-Pesa after selling crypto on Binance?
A: Once the buyer on P2P sends the payment, you usually receive it within 1–5 minutes. However, some sellers may delay. Always trade with verified buyers who have a high success rate to ensure faster transactions.
So, is Binance Right for You as a Kenyan Beginner?
If you’re looking to get started with cryptocurrency in Kenya, Binance is one of the best platforms to begin your journey.
It’s globally trusted, offers access to hundreds of digital coins, and—most importantly for Kenyan users—it supports M-Pesa through its Peer-to-Peer (P2P) marketplace.
From easy registration and verification, to secure deposits and withdrawals, Binance provides a flexible and user-friendly experience for both beginners and experienced traders.
While the crypto market in Kenya remains unregulated, thousands of Kenyans continue to benefit from Binance as a tool for investing, saving, and even sending money across borders.
That said, it’s crucial to use the platform wisely:
- Trade only with verified users.
- Never release crypto before confirming M-Pesa payment.
- Always double-check the trading network.
- Keep your account secure with 2FA.
With the right knowledge and caution, Binance can open a world of opportunities—right from your smartphone in Nairobi, Kisumu, Eldoret, or anywhere in Kenya.
Ready to explore crypto safely and smartly?
👉 Sign up on Binance today and join the growing number of Kenyans taking control of their financial future through digital assets.