The inaugural Africa Forex Trading Expo 2026 has opened in Nairobi, bringing together traders, brokers, fintech firms and payment service providers to discuss the growth of digital trading and financial technology across the continent. 

The two-day event at the Sarit Expo Centre has attracted hundreds of participants from across the financial services sector, with discussions focusing on mobile trading, artificial intelligence, blockchain technology and the infrastructure supporting forex transactions in African markets. 

Speaking during the opening session, Azelia Expo Ltd Director CPA Zack Kiratu said Africa is increasingly emerging as a significant player in global financial markets as more young Africans participate in online trading and fintech innovation accelerates. 

Kiratu noted that mobile technology and digital payment systems are expanding access to financial markets, allowing individuals to participate in forex trading from anywhere using smartphones. 

Industry experts at the event said smartphone penetration across Africa is driving a surge in mobile trading, enabling more people to access international financial markets. However, panelists also pointed to the need for stronger payment infrastructure to support smooth deposits, withdrawals and wallet transactions for traders. 

Sessions during the first day also examined global monetary policy and its impact on currency markets. Analysts explained that interest rate changes in major economies influence capital flows and are a key factor in forex market movements. 

Another discussion focused on the evolving relationship between traditional forex trading and the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Experts said the two sectors are increasingly converging, with technologies such as blockchain and stablecoins expected to improve cross-border payment systems and trading efficiency. 

Participants also attended practical workshops and masterclasses on copy trading strategies, risk management and the use of artificial intelligence in trading platforms. 

According to organisers, Kenya has more than 100,000 active retail forex traders and was the first African country to regulate online forex trading in 2017. Globally, the forex market records an estimated $9.6 trillion in daily trading volumes, underscoring the scale of the industry. 

The expo continues on Wednesday with further sessions focusing on trading strategies for beginners, fintech infrastructure supporting forex payments and the role of women in the forex, crypto and fintech sectors.