About the Kenyan Shilling
The Kenyan Shilling was introduced in 1966, replacing the East African shilling at par, three years after Kenya gained independence.
The name 'Shilling' is a continuation of the name of the currency used in the former British East Africa.
Interesting Facts
The M-Pesa Revolution
Kenya is a global leader in mobile money. The M-Pesa service, launched in 2007, allows millions of Kenyans to transfer money and pay for goods using their mobile phones, profoundly impacting the economy.
Wildlife on Currency
The latest series of banknotes features Kenya's 'Big Five' game animals (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo), celebrating the nation's rich natural heritage.
First President Portrait
Previous series of the shilling featured the portrait of Kenya's first president, Jomo Kenyatta, a common practice for many newly independent African nations.
Historical Timeline
Kenya gains independence.
The Central Bank of Kenya is established and the Kenyan Shilling is introduced.
A new series of banknotes is issued, removing portraits of individuals and featuring Kenyan wildlife instead.
Denominations
Banknotes
Coins
Security Features
Quick Facts
- ISO Code
- KES
- Symbol
- KSh
- Numeric Code
- 404
- Subunit
- Cent (1/100)
- Introduced
- 1966-09-14
Central Bank
- Name
- Central Bank of Kenya
- Headquarters
- Nairobi, Kenya
- Founded
- 1966
- Current Governor
- Kamau Thugge (since 2023)
Economic Data
- Reserve Currency Share
- 0.0%
- Forex Volume Share
- 0.0%
- Inflation Rate
- 5.1%
- Interest Rate
- 13.00%
Exchange Rates
What Affects the KES Exchange Rate?
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