The Kenya Bankers Association (KBA) recent upgrades to the Automated Clearing House (ACH), managed by both the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and KBA, has started bearing fruit with one of the Kenyan banks, Barclays Bank of Kenya, enabling same-day cheque clearances.
Currently, it takes three working days for cheques to clear.
Banks use the ACH system to electronically transfer funds and carry out direct debit instructions. The system is also used to verify, settle, and transmit cheques.
Speaking on the upgrade, KBA said:
“With the upgrade, mandates for the entire industry will be centrally managed via the ACH, resulting in more accurate mandates, faster processing times and improved security. It is also expected that the seamless integration will increase uptake from customers and service providers, including utility companies and other institutions that bill for services on a recurring basis. To benefit from automated direct debits, service providers can apply at a bank for an originator code which customers will use to authorise the payments.”
Barclays Kenya now offers same-day clearance of cheques.Barclays Bank of Kenya has already informed its clients that it will be effecting same-day cheque clearances from one Barclays account to another, which is seen as a first-mover in the use of this new upgraded service. More banks are expected to follow soon.
The new system will also enable faster clearance of foreign currency cheques. Currently, it takes seven days to clear such cheques. The upgrade will enable clearance within two days.
BitcoinKE has previously showcased an instant cheque clearing system powered by a private blockchain that makes it possible for cheques to be cleared more efficiently and safely using smart contracts. The sample cheque clearing system, powered by the Aeternity Blockchain can be seen below:
[VIDEO] Showcasing a Clearing & Settlement System on the Blockchain by @AeternityA. Video by @BitcoinKE #BlockchainKE #BitcoinKE pic.twitter.com/Rp7nrtDrIo
— BitKE (@BitcoinKE) November 22, 2018
