Forex Trading Industry Opens Kenya’s Youth to a USD 9.6 Trillion Global Market
By Peace Muthoka
Kenya’s forex trading industry is rapidly gaining ground as young people seek new income pathways in a tight job market. However, industry experts say myths and poor information still keep many youths from tapping into a global market valued at USD 9.6 trillion daily.
During a press briefing held on January 30, 2026, in Westlands, Nairobi, forex industry leaders called for urgent financial education. They said interest in forex trading continues to rise, with more than 100,000 Kenyans now actively trading.
Globally, forex trading volumes have grown by 28 per cent since 2022. This growth has opened fresh opportunities for retail traders. At the same time, it has increased risks for those entering the market without proper skills.
The briefing also marked the announcement of the Africa Forex Trading Expo 2026. The event will take place on March 10 and 11 at the Sarit Expo Centre. Yet speakers stressed that the real challenge goes beyond hosting expos.
Many young Kenyans still see forex trading as gambling. According to experts, this perception discourages serious learning and long-term participation in the industry.
Zack Kiratu, Director of Azelia Expo Ltd, said forex trading depends on skill, not luck. He explained that traders rely on market analysis, economic data and global news. He added that discipline and emotional control separate successful traders from struggling ones.
Kiratu noted that gambling relies purely on chance. In contrast, forex traders use strategies and risk management tools. He said these skills are learnable and improve with training and experience.
The discussion then turned to regulation, where Kenya continues to lead in Africa. In 2017, the country became the first on the continent to regulate online forex trading through the Capital Markets Authority.
Speakers said this decision boosted confidence in the local forex industry. It also positioned Nairobi as a regional trading hub.
Empire FX Chief Executive Officer Dr. Peter Onyango said regulation protects traders. He explained that CMA-licensed brokers must safeguard client funds and operate transparently. He said this sets forex trading apart from unregulated betting platforms.
Dr. Onyango added that authorities have stepped up enforcement. The CMA continues to shut down illegal brokers while educating the public on licensed firms. He said education and regulation must go hand in hand.
These conversations come as youth unemployment remains a major concern. Each year, about 800,000 young Kenyans enter the job market. Many struggle to find formal employment.
Experts said forex trading offers an alternative. Young people can start with small capital and trade using mobile phones. They can also trade alongside work or studies due to the market’s flexibility.
Still, the speakers issued a caution. Without training, losses are common. Industry figures show nearly 80 per cent of retail traders lose money. Poor risk management remains the main cause.
Empire FX Head of Operations Brenda Bett said Africa’s digital trading space is changing fast. She noted that forex trading now intersects with fintech and cryptocurrency.
Bett said Kenya’s strong internet coverage and mobile money systems give it an advantage. She added that access is no longer the biggest barrier. Knowledge now determines success.
Thomas from Xelans Markets agreed. He said Africa’s presence in global forex markets continues to grow. However, he stressed the need for trusted and regulated platforms.
Organisers said the Africa Forex Trading Expo 2026 will help close the knowledge gap. The event will feature training sessions, live trading demonstrations and direct engagement with regulators and brokers.
Pre-event activities will include an Introducing Broker cocktail on March 9 and a gala dinner on March 10. Empire FX will sponsor the event, with Xelans Markets as a platinum sponsor.
As the forex trading industry expands in Kenya, experts say young people face a clear choice. With education and regulation, forex trading can build wealth. Without them, the risks remain high in a complex global market.
