The currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling, abbreviated as KES. The shilling has been in use since the 1960s, following the country's independence. It is subdivided into 100 cents and is issued in various denominations of coins and banknotes. The Central Bank of Kenya is responsible for issuing and regulating the currency. The shilling's value can fluctuate against other currencies in the foreign exchange market, influenced by factors like inflation, economic performance, and political stability. The Kenyan shilling plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, facilitating trade, investment, and everyday transactions.