27/07/2026
π¨ Important Regulatory Alert from the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE)! πͺπΉπ»
The NBE has just issued a new Public Notice on Virtual Assets, and it is a major update for anyone in the tech or finance space.
What you need to know:
The NBE has clarified that its ban is no longer just about cryptocurrencies (like Bitcoin). The prohibition now applies to any digital representation of value used for payment, investment, or exchange.
Unless expressly authorized by the NBE, the following activities are strictly prohibited in Ethiopia:
π Exchanging virtual assets for fiat currency (Birr).
π Transferring or holding (custody) virtual assets.
π Providing financial services related to the sale of digital assets.
The NBE warns that engaging in these unregulated activities exposes individuals and businesses to severe legal risks, fraud, and financial losses.
At Kiya & Associates Law Office, we help FinTech companies and investors navigate these complex digital regulations safely. Stay compliant and protect your business! βοΈ