The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) is a distinguished national institution charged with the responsibility of formulating monetary policy, maintaining price stability, issuing currency, and fostering a robust and stable financial system in the Republic of Kenya. In line with its commitment to nurturing future industry leaders, the Bank has continually invested in the development of young professionals by offering a comprehensive internship program — the Central Bank of Kenya Internship Program (CBKIP).
The CBKIP is a one-year internship initiative that serves as a strategic talent development platform designed to bridge the transition between academic learning and professional engagement. It provides participants with invaluable exposure to the inner workings of both central and commercial banking operations. Through this program, interns gain real-world experience, deepen their knowledge of financial systems, and build professional networks that can help guide their future careers.
Applications are now open for qualified and passionate young professionals who wish to begin their career journey with a reputable public institution at the heart of Kenya’s financial sector. CBK is currently accepting applications for internship opportunities across a broad range of departments. Each placement promises an immersive learning experience tailored to develop key competencies, offer career clarity, and build long-term employability.
Internship Program Overview
The Central Bank of Kenya Internship Program aims to cultivate a talent pipeline of young professionals who are adequately equipped to take on employment opportunities within the broader financial services industry. The program runs for twelve (12) months, during which interns are provided with opportunities to:
- Gain hands-on experience in central banking and related operations
- Acquire specialized knowledge in their chosen fields
- Build professional relationships and access mentorship opportunities
- Develop soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving
- Clarify their career aspirations and refine long-term goals
Available Internship Opportunities
CBK has announced internship openings across the following functional areas:
- Finance
- Research
- Banking and Payment Services
- Communications
- Human Resources
- Internal Audit and Risk
- General Services
- Information Technology
Each department plays a critical role in the operations of CBK and offers interns the opportunity to contribute meaningfully while acquiring knowledge and experience in their areas of interest. Below is a detailed description of what each placement entails.
1. Finance
Interns in the Finance Department will be exposed to financial management processes within a central banking environment. They will work alongside seasoned finance professionals in areas such as:
- Budget formulation and monitoring
- Financial reporting and analysis
- Asset management
- Expenditure tracking and reconciliation
- Compliance with financial regulations and internal policies
Interns will also learn how the Bank manages public funds and ensures accountability through robust internal financial control mechanisms.
2. Research
This placement is ideal for individuals with a keen interest in economic analysis and policy formulation. Interns in the Research Department will:
- Assist in compiling and analyzing macroeconomic data
- Participate in economic modeling and forecasting
- Support the preparation of policy briefs and research papers
- Monitor regional and global economic developments
- Contribute to the formulation of monetary policy by providing empirical insights
Interns will gain exposure to the analytical tools used in economic planning and policy design at a national level.
3. Banking and Payment Services
This department provides interns with exposure to banking operations and payment systems. Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting clearing and settlement processes
- Participating in the review of payment infrastructure systems
- Assisting in the monitoring of compliance by commercial banks and other institutions
- Engaging with financial institutions to resolve payment issues
- Supporting initiatives aimed at modernizing Kenya’s payments ecosystem
Interns will come to appreciate the complexities of payment systems and their pivotal role in ensuring financial system stability.
4. Communications
Interns in the Communications Department will work on initiatives designed to promote transparency, public awareness, and stakeholder engagement. Responsibilities will include:
- Assisting in content development for internal and external communications
- Supporting media liaison and event management activities
- Drafting press releases and news features
- Monitoring media coverage and preparing reports
- Managing social media and digital communication platforms
The placement offers an excellent opportunity to explore how communications strategies are employed to support public institutions.
5. Human Resources
The Human Resources Department is responsible for staff welfare, recruitment, and organizational development. Interns will be engaged in:
- Supporting recruitment and onboarding processes
- Assisting with training and development coordination
- Maintaining HR records and databases
- Participating in staff welfare and engagement initiatives
- Contributing to the development and implementation of HR policies
Interns will gain firsthand experience in managing the most valuable resource in any organization — its people.
6. Internal Audit and Risk
This department provides critical oversight of the Bank’s operations. Interns in Internal Audit and Risk will:
- Assist in the planning and execution of internal audits
- Participate in risk assessments and control evaluations
- Help in the documentation and reporting of audit findings
- Support the implementation of risk mitigation measures
- Monitor compliance with internal policies and external regulations
This placement offers a solid foundation for a career in auditing, risk management, or compliance.
7. General Services
Interns in the General Services Department will support operational and administrative functions within the Bank. Responsibilities may include:
- Inventory and asset management
- Logistics and transport coordination
- Facility maintenance and contract management
- Procurement support and vendor relations
- Supporting corporate services to ensure smooth daily operations
This role is ideal for candidates looking to understand institutional support systems and resource management.
8. Information Technology
Interns in the Information Technology Department will be placed in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment where they will:
- Provide IT support to various departments
- Assist in systems development and testing
- Help in network administration and cybersecurity monitoring
- Support IT asset management and infrastructure maintenance
- Participate in digital transformation initiatives
This placement provides exposure to enterprise IT systems, enabling interns to enhance their technical and problem-solving skills.
Application Procedure
CBK invites applications from qualified candidates for the Internship Program. Interested applicants are required to submit their applications exclusively through the online portal provided. To apply:
- Create an applicant profile online recruitment system.
- Complete and submit your online application via the following link:
- Ensure that you upload all required documents, including:
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- A recommendation letter from your academic institution
Important Notes:
- All applications must be submitted on or before May 16, 2025.
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Only online applications will be accepted.
- The CBK is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from marginalized communities.
- Canvassing in any form will lead to disqualification.
The Central Bank of Kenya Internship Program is a remarkable opportunity to grow your career, develop critical professional skills, and contribute to the national financial system. If you are passionate about public service and financial innovation, CBKIP is the stepping stone to an exciting and impactful career path.
