Kenya Interest Rate — 2026 Central Bank Data & Outlook
Kenya's central bank interest rate was 16.59% in December 2024, up from 13.59% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 13.59%.
Kenya's central bank interest rate stands at 16.59% as of December 2024. Over the latest readings, the central bank interest rate has moved within a band of 9.00% to 36.24%. The most recent figure of 16.59% is up from 13.59% a year earlier, and is 3.00% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 168 economies tracked on this platform, Kenya ranks #25 on central bank interest rate by latest value. It rose from 13.59% in the previous year, and compares with a year-earlier 13.59%.
What's driving it
The policy rate is set to balance inflation against growth and employment; it rises to restrain demand and falls to support it.
Recent readings
| Period | Central bank interest rate |
|---|---|
| Dec 2024 | 16.59% |
| Dec 2023 | 13.59% |
| Dec 2022 | 12.34% |
| Dec 2021 | 12.08% |
| Dec 2020 | 12.00% |
| Dec 2019 | 12.44% |
| Dec 2018 | 13.06% |
| Dec 2017 | 13.67% |
Data: The World Bank — World Development Indicators (CC BY 4.0) Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Central Bank Interest Rate in Kenya (2026)?
Kenya's central bank interest rate was 16.59% in December 2024, up from 13.59% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 13.59%.
Is the central bank interest rate rising or falling in Kenya?
It rose in the latest reading — 16.59% in December 2024 versus 13.59% a year earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is central bank interest rate?
It measures the benchmark policy rate set by the central bank, which steers borrowing costs across the economy.