IMF Staff Country Reports

Kenya: Staff Report for the 2018 Article IV Consultation and Establishment of Performance Criteria for the Second Review Under the Stand-by Arrangement

Publication Date:

October 23, 2018

Electronic Access:

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Summary:

This 2018 Article IV Consultation highlights that Kenya has maintained strong growth in recent years. External imbalances have narrowed, strengthening resilience to shocks. The business environment continues to improve, supporting private investment. However, a severe drought, an extended presidential election, and weak bank lending—due in part to interest rate controls—slowed growth in 2017. Kenya’s medium-term growth prospects are favorable, supported by infrastructure investment and an improving business environment. However, continued strong growth and macroeconomic stability hinge on the implementation of reforms. In addition, headwinds from fiscal consolidation and weak credit growth will weigh on economic activity in the near term.

Series:

Country Report No. 2018/295

Subject:

Banking Credit External debt Interest rate policy Monetary policy Money Public debt Revenue administration