Kenya’s official foreign exchange reserves rose to USD 15.25 billion (approximately KSh 1.98 trillion) in the week ending 10 September 2026, reversing a three-week decline.
Data from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) weekly bulletin show reserves increased by USD 371 million from USD 14.88 billion recorded on 3 September.
Key Numbers This Week
| Metric | 10 Sept 2026 | 3 Sept 2026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex Reserves | USD 15.253 billion | USD 14.882 billion | +USD 371 million |
| Import Cover | 6.3 months | 6.1 months | +0.2 months |
| KSh Equivalent | ≈ KSh 1.98 trillion | ≈ KSh 1.93 trillion | +≈ KSh 48 billion |
The current level comfortably exceeds the CBK’s statutory requirement of at least four months of import cover and the East African Community’s 4.5-month target.
Still Below July Peak
While the rebound is welcome, reserves remain slightly below the all-time high of about USD 15.4 billion reached in late July 2026. That peak was driven largely by proceeds from the government’s partial sale of Safaricom shares.
Shilling Holds Steady
The Kenyan shilling stayed broadly stable during the week, trading around KSh 129.44 to KSh 129.45 against the US dollar. A stronger reserve buffer gives the CBK more room to manage short-term currency pressure and settle external payments without friction.
Why It Matters
Healthy forex reserves help:
- Support shilling stability
- Give importers confidence when settling dollar invoices
- Reduce the risk of sudden balance-of-payments stress
For businesses and consumers, the improved buffer lowers the chance of sharp currency swings that would feed into higher prices of fuel, food and imported goods.
Read also:CBK Infrastructure Bonds: What Kenyan Investors Should Know
Bottom Line
Kenya’s foreign exchange reserves rebounded strongly to USD 15.25 billion in the week ending 10 September 2026, ending a three-week slide. Import cover improved to 6.3 months, well above the legal minimum. The shilling remained steady, and the CBK continues to hold a comfortable external buffer.
Sources:
Xinhua – Kenya forex reserves rebound to 15.25 bln USD (12 September 2026);
People Daily;
Tuko;
Central Bank of Kenya Weekly Bulletin (week ending 10 September 2026).