Kenya’s central bank has scheduled its next rate-setting meeting for October 7, a decision closely watched by markets as the country grapples with inflationary pressures and fiscal challenges. The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) confirmed the date in a notice published on its official website.
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) left its benchmark lending rate unchanged at 13% during its last review in August, citing a stable shilling and easing food prices. Analysts referenced by Bloomberg said the upcoming meeting will test whether the CBK prioritizes growth or maintains a tight stance to anchor inflation expectations.
The CBK’s decisions have drawn heightened attention from investors amid Kenya’s heavy debt obligations and rising global financing costs. Economists told Reuters that the bank may be cautious about easing rates too soon, given ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts and volatility in global energy prices.
The October meeting comes at a time when Kenya is also strengthening financial sector reforms and navigating international capital markets, factors that will likely influence the MPC’s outlook.