The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) forecasts continued stability for the Kenya Shilling against the U.S. Dollar, attributed to tightly controlled interbank lending rates. The dollar currently stands at Ksh129.41.

• The Kenya Shilling Overnight Interbank Average (KESONIA) is closely aligned with the Central Bank Rate (CBR) at 8.75 per cent, indicating a liquid and orderly banking system.
• CBK Governor Kamau Thugge highlighted this alignment as crucial for enhancing monetary policy transmission and reassuring foreign investors.
• This stability comes as the CBK retained its benchmark lending rate at 8.75 per cent to anchor domestic inflation expectations amid global pressures, though it lowered the 2026 economic growth forecast to 4.9 per cent.

Kenya and Finland have signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing cooperation in education, climate action, and digital innovation.

• The MoUs cover collaborative efforts in technical training, competency-based learning, public service digitization, and climate change resilience.
• The agreements were signed in Helsinki on Wednesday, with President William Ruto witnessing the ceremony alongside Finland's President Alexander Stubb.
• Both leaders also discussed reforms for the United Nations Security Council, advocating for greater African representation.

Kenya has awarded a massive Ksh375.4 billion contract to China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) for the upgrade and expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

• The contract value is Ksh375.4 billion (approximately $2.9 billion).
• The project is awarded to China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), a Chinese state-owned firm.
• Construction is anticipated to begin in June 2026, funded through the newly established National Infrastructure Fund (NIF).