Kenya’s foreign exchange reserves rose to US$14.7 billion (about KSh1.9 trillion) in October 2026, giving the country a stronger buffer to meet its international payment obligations.
In its November 2026 Kenya Economic Update, the World Bank reported that the reserves were sufficient to cover 5.9 months of imports, comfortably above the statutory minimum of four months.
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) recorded reserves of US$14.702 billion as of October 6, 2026, up from US$12.394 billion at the end of 2025.
The increase gives the country more capacity to pay for essential imports such as fuel, medicine and machinery, while helping cushion the economy against external financial shocks.
Foreign exchange reserves are also important in managing pressure on the shilling. The CBK can use them to meet foreign currency demand and support stability in the exchange market when necessary.
The improved position comes at a time when global economic uncertainty has increased pressure on import-dependent economies. The World Bank warned that higher fuel prices and rising transport costs linked to tensions in the Middle East could affect Kenya’s external position.
Kenya’s current account deficit widened by 59.4 per cent in the 12 months to August 2026, largely due to higher import costs and a deteriorating trade balance.
Despite these pressures, the country’s foreign exchange reserves remained above the required threshold, providing a cushion as the government meets its external payment obligations.
The latest figures point to stronger foreign exchange buffers, although the World Bank cautioned that external risks remain a concern for the economy.
