Guardian Bank Kenya SWIFT code is the unique code required for international transactions with Guardian Bank Limited. The 8-character version is GUARKENA, while the extended 11-character version is GUARKENAXXX. Sometimes it may appear as GUARKENA XXX, but the correct way to write it is GUARKENAXXX without spaces.
The official registered head-office address for this SWIFT code is:
Guardian Bank Limited, Guardian Centre, Biashara Street, Nairobi, Kenya.
A SWIFT/BIC code is structured into four segments:
- GUAR → bank code (Guardian Bank)
- KE → country code (Kenya)
- NA → location code (Nairobi)
- XXX → branch code (head office)
This breakdown shows that GUARKENA identifies Guardian Bank in Nairobi, Kenya. Adding XXX makes it the complete 11-character SWIFT code: GUARKENAXXX, pointing to the head-office branch.
Quick reference (copy-ready):
- 8-character SWIFT/BIC: GUARKENA
- 11-character SWIFT/BIC: GUARKENAXXX
- Bank: Guardian Bank Limited
- Address: Guardian Centre, Biashara Street, Nairobi, Kenya
- Usage: International money transfers to or from Guardian Bank Kenya accounts
When to use it
Use the Guardian Bank Kenya SWIFT code whenever you are receiving money from abroad into a Guardian Bank account or sending funds internationally from Kenya through Guardian Bank.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Writing the code with spaces (always use GUARKENAXXX, not “GUARKENA XXX”).
- Confusing Guardian Bank Kenya with other financial institutions that have similar names.
- Using the 8-character version when the transfer form specifically requires the 11-character code.
Step-by-step guide to making a transfer with Guardian Bank Kenya SWIFT code
- Confirm the recipient’s name and Guardian Bank Kenya account number.
- Enter the SWIFT code: GUARKENA (8-character) or GUARKENAXXX (11-character).
- Provide the registered address: Guardian Centre, Biashara Street, Nairobi, Kenya.
- Select the preferred transfer currency (USD, EUR, GBP, or KES).
- Agree on how fees will be covered (sender, recipient, or shared).
- Fill in the purpose of the payment (e.g., business, remittance, tuition fees).
- Double-check all details before confirming the transfer.
- Save your transaction confirmation and share the reference with the recipient.
Final checklist
✔ Recipient’s account details accurate
✔ Correct SWIFT code entered (GUARKENA or GUARKENAXXX)
✔ Bank address included if required
✔ Purpose of payment clearly written
✔ Transfer fees agreed
By using the Guardian Bank Kenya SWIFT code correctly, you ensure that your international transfers are processed quickly, securely, and without unnecessary delays.








