While commercial banks, corporate entities and pension schemes are some of the largest investors in government securities, individuals can invest directly through the Central Bank.
If you’re interested in investing in government securities you must have a bank account with a commercial bank in Kenya, and you must open a CDS account with the Central Bank. Kenyans and foreign investors who meet these qualifications are free to invest in government securities directly with the Central Bank.
Those who do not wish to open a CDS account with the Central Bank can still invest by opening a client account with their commercial bank, which will invest on their behalf. However, while opening a CDS account is free, commercial banks typically have fees associated with client accounts.
Kenyans living abroad can invest in government securities as long as they have an active Kenyan bank account. They can open a CDS account and submit all required forms to the Central Bank via email.
Download a Step-by-Step Guide for Investing in Government Securities for Kenyan Diaspora HERE.
CDS Account Opening Form (Individual)
If you are an individual investor, print the CDS Account Opening Form and fill in all details. Ensure that all the required fields are properly completed. Instructions for completing the form can be found on the Invest in Treasury Bills and Invest in Treasury Bonds pages.
Download CDS Account Opening Form HERE.
CDS Account Opening Form (Corporate)
If you are an individual investor, print the CDS Account Opening Form and fill in all details. Ensure that all the required fields are properly completed. Instructions for completing the form can be found on the Invest in Treasury Bills and Invest in Treasury Bonds pages.
Download CDS Account Opening Form HERE.
Treasury Bills Application Form
To bid for Treasury Bills, please download the Treasury Bills Application form, found HERE. Print the form, ensure that all the required fields are properly filled in, then scan the completed form and email it to applications@centralbank.go.ke.
Treasury Bonds Application Form, Including Infrastructure Bonds
To bid for Treasury Bonds, please download the Treasury Bonds Application form, found HERE. Print the form, ensure that all the required fields are properly filled in, then scan the completed form and email it to applications@centralbank.go.ke.
For enquiries please contact Central Bank of Kenya, Financial Markets Department on 2860000/3640/3641 or send an email to applications@centralbank.go.ke.