Africa’s Crypto Shift: What Ghanaians Should Expect Next
Nigeria Turns Regulation Into Taxation
Nigeria has taken a bold step by bringing cryptocurrency under its existing tax framework. The new rules will take effect in January 2026.
A 10 percent capital gains tax applies to profits from selling crypto held over time. Income tax between 7 and 24 percent is charged on frequent trading, staking, or other activities considered business income.
There’s also a 7.5 percent VAT on exchange service fees and on payments for goods or services made with crypto.
Licensed platforms must keep accurate records and report transactions to the tax authorities. This move integrates crypto into Nigeria’s formal financial oversight and targets both individuals and businesses.
Kenya: A Strong Legal Framework
Kenya has passed its Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP) Bill, 2025, positioning itself as a regulatory leader in East Africa.
The law gives joint oversight to the Central Bank of Kenya and the Capital Markets Authority, rather than creating a separate regulator.
Platforms must register locally, maintain physical offices, appoint Kenyan board representatives, segregate client funds, and undergo annual audits.
They must also comply with strict KYC and AML rules, use real-time monitoring systems, and report suspicious transactions.
Kenya’s Treasury has the power to issue further rules on stablecoins, tokenized assets, capital requirements, and operational standards for trading platforms.
The law also prioritizes consumer protection, requiring clear fee disclosures, risk warnings, and fair dispute resolution processes.
Ghana: What to Expect Next
Ghana’s Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill is still in draft form. However, Nigeria and Kenya provide a clear picture of what’s coming.
Ghana is expected to adopt a licensing regime similar to Kenya’s, with local registration, compliance checks, and oversight by multiple regulators such as the Bank of Ghana and the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Once regulation is in place, taxation will likely follow Nigeria’s model. This includes capital gains tax on long-term holdings, income tax on trading and staking, and VAT on crypto services and payments.
As the e-Cedi project progresses, Ghana is also expected to issue targeted rules for stablecoins and tokenized assets. Oversight will likely involve several agencies, which means businesses and individuals should start preparing for structured compliance.
The Bottom Line
Nigeria is moving forward with a clear taxation model. Kenya has established a strong legal framework. Ghana is next in line.
Crypto activities in Ghana will soon be regulated, monitored, and taxed like traditional finance.