Kenya's Forex Reserves Decline for 3rd Consecutive Week, Puts Slight Pressure on Shilling
Kenya's foreign exchange reserves have declined for the third consecutive week, dropping to USD 15.155 billion as of August 20, 2026. Despite the dip, the Central Bank of Kenya maintains that the reserves remain adequate to cover imports, even as the shilling faces minor depreciation.
Why it matters
Fluctuations in forex reserves and currency value are critical indicators of Kenya's economic stability and its ability to manage international trade obligations.
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TUKO.co.ke journalist Japhet Ruto has over eight years of experience in financial, business, and technology reporting, offering insights into Kenyan and global economic trends.
Kenya's foreign exchange reserves fell for a third week running, according to data published by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) in its weekly bulletin on Friday, August 22, 2026.
Kenya's forex reserves have fallen again. Photo: William Ruto. Source: Facebook PAY ATTENTION: TUKO is in WhatsApp Channels now! Subscribe and read news in your favourite messenger.
The CBK reported that usable reserves stood at USD 15,155 million (KSh 1.961 trillion) as of August 20, equivalent to 6.3 months of import cover.
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