The Kenya Bankers Association (KBA) is urging the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) to maintain the benchmark policy rate at 8.75 percent due to escalating global risks.

• The KBA cites rising global oil prices and geopolitical tensions as key external shocks posing upside risks to inflation and the Kenyan shilling.
• The lobby group, represented by the KBA Centre for Research on Financial Markets and Policy, also noted that while recent rate cuts have eased short-term interest rates, structural challenges are delaying their full impact on businesses and households.
• Pressure on the Kenyan shilling is also a concern, linked to a widening trade deficit and potential disruptions to diaspora remittances.