Growth in lending by commercial banks to Kenya's private sector quickened to 10.6 percent in September, up from 10.3 percent in August, the Central Bank of Kenya reported. The acceleration was driven by stronger demand for credit across multiple sectors. The Central Bank said lending expanded notably in trade, building and construction, agriculture, finance and insurance, and consumer durables.
The Monetary Policy Committee noted that private-sector credit growth remained robust at 10.6 percent in September 2026, compared to 10.3 percent in August 2026 and minus 2.9 percent in January 2025. The figures demonstrate a continued recovery in lending after the contraction seen earlier in the year. The Central Bank held its Central Bank Rate steady at 8.75 percent during its October 7 meeting.