KEMPER INTERMEDIATE GOVERNMENT TRUST
N-30D, 1997-09-08
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<PAGE>   1
 
KEMPER
INTERMEDIATE 
GOVERNMENT TRUST

SEMIANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30,
1997
 
                  " . . .    We favored mortgage securities
              and short-term Treasury Bonds . . . This portfolio
              composition lessened the impact of the Fed's rate
                       hike on the fund in March . . ."
 
                                                            [KEMPER FUNDS LOGO]
<PAGE>   2
CONTENTS
3
Economic Overview
5
Performance Update
7
Portfolio Statistics
8
Portfolio of
Investments
9
Financial Statements
11
Notes to
Financial Statements
13
Financial Highlights
14
Shareholders' Meeting
 
AT A GLANCE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KEMPER INTERMEDIATE GOVERNMENT
TRUST TOTAL RETURNS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR THE SIX-MONTH PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<S>                                          <C>
BASED ON NET ASSET VALUE                     2.87%
BASED ON MARKET PRICE                        9.14%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
 
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 NET ASSET VALUE AND MARKET PRICE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 AS OF     AS OF
                                6/30/97   12/31/96
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                             <C>       <C>
NET ASSET VALUE                 $ 7.79     $ 7.90
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MARKET PRICE                    $7.437     $7.125
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 DISTRIBUTION REVIEW
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
The following table shows per share distribution and yield information for the
fund as of June 30, 1997.
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                      <C>
SIX-MONTH DISTRIBUTION:                  $0.3300
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JUNE DISTRIBUTION:                       $0.0550
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANNUALIZED DISTRIBUTION RATE
(BASED ON NET ASSET VALUE):                8.47%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANNUALIZED DISTRIBUTION RATE
(BASED ON MARKET VALUE):                   8.87%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
 
Statistical Note: Current annualized distribution rate is the latest monthly
dividend shown as an annualized percentage of net asset value/market price on
the date shown. Distribution rate simply measures the level of dividends and is
not a complete measure of performance. Total return measures aggregate change in
net asset value/market price assuming reinvestment of dividends. Returns are
historical and do not represent future performance. Market price, net asset
value and returns fluctuate. Additional information concerning performance is
contained in the Financial Highlights appearing at the end of this report.
 
TERMS TO KNOW                  

DURATION Duration is a measure of the interest rate sensitivity of a
fixed-income portfolio. The longer the duration, the greater the interest rate
risk.
 
TOTAL RETURN A fund's total return figure measures both the net investment
income and any realized and unrealized appreciation or depreciation of the
underlying investments in its portfolio for the period. Total return assumes the
reinvestment of all dividends and it represents the aggregate percentage or
change in the value of an investment in the fund over the period. Total return
may be based upon net asset value or market price.
 
<PAGE>   3
ECONOMIC OVERVIEW
 
[TIMBERS PHOTO]

STEPHEN B. TIMBERS IS PRESIDENT, CHIEF INVESTMENT AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF
ZURICH KEMPER INVESTMENTS, INC. (ZKI). ZKI AND ITS AFFILIATES MANAGE
APPROXIMATELY $80 BILLION IN ASSETS, INCLUDING $45 BILLION IN RETAIL MUTUAL
FUNDS. TIMBERS IS A GRADUATE OF YALE UNIVERSITY AND HOLDS AN M.B.A. FROM HARVARD
UNIVERSITY.

DEAR SHAREHOLDER,
 
A self-regulating economy, a balanced budget agreement and a positive stock
market all have contributed to another excellent year for investors. Given the
extended length of today's bull market (which celebrated its 15th anniversary on
August 12), it is prudent to wonder whether the end is near. Our position is
that while there is a certain precariousness to today's environment, which we
will elaborate on below, we see little to suggest that there will be more than
occasional market corrections.

  Bipartisan agreement to balance the federal budget by the year 2002 represents
significant progress that should benefit investors over the long term. By
reducing the burden of capital gains and eliminating certain tax loopholes, the
Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 and the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 have the
potential to meaningfully affect behavior. Now that the ceiling has been raised
on capital gains from the sale of a home, empty nesters will be more inclined to
move out of homes and into smaller condominiums. Added investment and savings
options should help boost the country's sagging savings rate. From a social
perspective, government's action to widen the difference between the taxation
rate on capital gains and on income reflects a conscious effort to encourage
capital investment. The more people and businesses can do for themselves, the
less likely they are to rely on the government, which should help restrain
federal spending.

  The maximum tax on long-term capital gains is now 20 percent versus a maximum
of approximately 40 percent on ordinary income earned by Americans in the
highest income tax brackets. This dramatic difference could have some influence
on the management of mutual funds in the future. Although few investment
decisions are based on their tax consequences, the legislation supports a "buy
and hold" approach to investing, by which a mutual fund generates investment
returns through gains on investments held 18 months or longer. Such gains are
taxed at the reduced capital gains rate. On the margin, portfolio managers
should focus on long-term investing -- the strategy that we have always
supported.

  In addition, mutual funds will gain investment flexibility with the new law's
repeal of what has been called the "short/short rule." Previously, investment
companies had been subject to a 30 percent limitation on total income arising
from the sale of securities held less than three months -- or face severe tax
consequences. The lifting of this limitation provides newer funds, in
particular, with much needed maneuvering ability.

  You can expect to hear more from Kemper about the implications of the new
legislation, and specifically about the tax reporting changes, over the next
several weeks and months. Overall, we believe that this legislation is something
the country can be proud of. It represents years of a commitment on the part of
the federal government to hold spending in check and refrain from creating new
programs. Expanding corporate revenues and profits in an extended period of low
inflation also contributed to making this investor-friendly environment
possible.

  As we look toward the end of the year, we see little to trouble us. The
economy appears to be in excellent condition. Continuing the alternatingly
fast/slow pace that we have experienced for several months, the fast-growing
first quarter was followed by a slower second quarter. Such self-regulation has
minimized any need for the Federal Reserve Board to raise interest rates again.
We don't rule out the possibility of another hike in the fourth quarter,
however.

  Inflation is very low. In spite of unemployment being the lowest we have seen
in decades, wage pressures are still manageable. For example, the United Parcel
Service strike and the earlier steel and airlines work actions represent the
most union activity we have seen in 10 years. Encouraged by the low unemployment
(and therefore high demand for workers), the unions are becoming bolder but in
the end seem ready to resolve disputes sensibly. As a consequence, wage
increases remain moderate.




 
                                                                               3
 

<PAGE>   4
ECONOMIC OVERVIEW
 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ECONOMIC GUIDPOSTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Economic activity is a key influence on investment performance and shareholder
decision-making.  Periods of recession or boom, inflation or deflation, credit
expansion or credit crunch have a significant impact on mutual fund performance.
     The following are some significant economic guideposts and their investment
rationale that may help your investment decision-making.  The 10-year Treasury
rate and the prime rate are prevailing interest rates.  The other data report
year-to-year percentage changes.


                                  [BAR GRAPH]

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   NOW (07/31/97)       6 MONTHS AGO        1 YEAR AGO          2 YEARS AGO
<S>                                  <C>                  <C>                 <C>                 <C>
10-YEAR TREASURY RATE(1)                6.22                6.42                6.64                6.49    
PRIME RATE(2)                           8.5                 8.25                8.25                8.75
INFLATION RATE(3)                       2.23                3.03                2.88                2.62
THE U.S. DOLLAR(4)                      7.32                7.67                4.26               -4.11
CAPITAL GOODS ORDERS(5)*                7.11                3.61               16.26                1.75
INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION(5)*               3.84                4.84                3.38                2.36 
EMPLOYMENT GROWTH(6)                    2.24                2.2                 2.14                2.42 
</TABLE>

(1)  Falling interest rates in recent years have been a big plus for financial
     assets.

(2)  The interest rate that commercial lenders charge their best borrowers.

(3)  Inflation reduces an investor's real return.  In the last five years,
     inflation has been as high as 6%.  The low, moderate inflation of the last 
     few years has meant high real returns.

(4)  Changes in the exchange value of the dollar impact U.S. exporters and the
     value of U.S. firms' foreign profits.

(5)  These influence corporate profits and equity performance.

(6)  An influence on family income and retail sales.

*    Data as of June 30, 1997.

  Our primary concern is the very high valuations of the stock market. All
things considered, it is difficult to see where we can go from here. With prices
at such heady levels, the market can be expected to react negatively to even
minor earnings disappointments, as we have seen in August. Kemper's response to
this market is to remain fully invested and to reduce exposure by diversifying
across a wider group of investment opportunities. Research, the first step in
stock selection, is key in this kind of a market.

  Bond markets are obviously cheered by recent events, and prospects for income
investors continue to be positive. Interest rates are stable and credit quality
has not been an issue. A dwindling supply of municipal bonds has enabled
municipal investments to outperform U.S. Treasuries.

  In such a fully valued domestic market, it can make sense to look to
international markets for their growth potential. The strength of the dollar
thus far this year has diminished returns but international opportunities look
bright.

  With this commentary as an economic backdrop, we encourage you to read the
following detailed report of your fund, including an interview with your fund's
portfolio management. Thank you for your continued support. We appreciate the
opportunity to serve your investment needs.
 
Sincerely,
 
/s/ Stephen B. Timbers
 
STEPHEN B. TIMBERS
PRESIDENT, CHIEF INVESTMENT AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Zurich Kemper Investments, Inc.
 
August 14, 1997
 
 4
 

<PAGE>   5
PERFORMANCE UPDATE

[BYRNES PHOTO]

ELIZABETH BYRNES JOINED KEMPER IN 1982 AND IS A FIRST VICE PRESIDENT. SHE HAS
BEEN PORTFOLIO CO-MANAGER OF kEMPER iNTERMEDIATE GOVERNMENT TRUST SINCE 1994.
BYRNES RECEIVED A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE FROM MIAMI UNIVERSITY AND IS A
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT.

[VANDENBERG PHOTO]

RICHARD VANDENBERG JOINED ZURICH KEMPER INVESTMENTS, INC. (ZKI) IN MARCH 1996.
HE IS SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF ZKI AND PORTFOLIO CO-MANAGER OF KEMPER
iNTERMEDIATE GOVERNMENT TRUST. VANDENBERG HAS MORE THAN 22 YEARS OF FIXED-INCOME
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE. HE RECEIVED BOTH A BACHELOR'S DEGREE AND AN
M.B.A. FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS REPORT REFLECT THOSE OF THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ONLY
THROUGH THE END OF THE PERIOD OF THE REPORT, AS STATED ON THE COVER. THE
MANAGERS' VIEWS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME, BASED ON MARKET AND OTHER 
CONDITIONS.

DURING THE SIX-MONTH PERIOD, ECONOMIC GROWTH GAINED MOMENTUM AND INTEREST 
RATES ROSE. PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ELIZABETH BYRNES AND RICHARD VANDENBERG
EXPLAIN HOW THEY ADJUSTED THE PORTFOLIO'S HOLDINGS TO MITIGATE THE IMPACT OF
THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD'S SHORT-TERM INTEREST RATE INCREASE EARLY IN THE
PERIOD.
 
Q    HOW DID THE FUND PERFORM DURING THE SEMIANNUAL PERIOD, JANUARY 1, 1997
THROUGH JUNE 30, 1997?
 
A    On a market price base, the fund gained 9.14 percent. On a net asset value
basis, the fund gained 2.87 percent. This gain bettered the 2.40 percent average
gain of the Intermediate U.S. Government Category as tracked by Lipper
Analytical Services, Inc. The category includes four closed-end funds with
similar investment objectives as Kemper Intermediate Government Trust.

Q    THERE WAS MUCH UNCERTAINTY ABOUT THE DIRECTION OF INTEREST RATES DURING THE
PERIOD. WHAT OCCURRED IN THE ECONOMY THAT CAUSED THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD (THE
FED) TO INCREASE SHORT-TERM RATES IN MARCH AND WHAT WAS ITS IMPACT ON THE
GOVERNMENT MARKET?
 
A    Signs of stronger economic growth and concerns of potentially higher
inflation led to the Fed's 0.25 percent interest rate tightening. The market was
volatile throughout the first several months of the period as it debated the
likelihood and timing of a Fed intervention.
 
  In early 1997 strong economic reports surfaced. A stronger-than-expected
employment report indicated a rise in average hourly earnings and an increase in
hours worked. These indicators suggested solid Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
growth, which registered higher-than-expected for the fourth quarter. This
relatively strong GDP figure indicated to the market that the Fed would likely
raise interest rates to slow the economy. In February, Greenspan stated again
that financial assets might be overvalued. Specifically, Greenspan referenced
the level of wage inflation and suggested that recent productivity advances may
not be able to offset the current level of wage increases. The Fed did move to
increase short-term rates by 0.25 percent in March. This was considered a
preemptive move aimed at slowing growth in the economy to maintain a low rate of
inflation. Remember, excessive growth in the economy indicates the potential for
higher inflation. Inflation is negative for bond investors as it erodes the
"real" value of fixed-income investments.
 
  By the end of April, however, signs of more modest growth began to surface and
inflation remained benign. This helped fixed-income investments begin to gain
back some of the ground they had lost earlier. As a result, market yields began
to fall again. Government securities performed well for the remainder of the
period.
 
 

                                                                               5
<PAGE>   6
PERFORMANCE UPDATE
 
Q    HOW DID YOU PREPARE THE FUND FOR THE POSSIBILITY OF A FED INTEREST RATE
INCREASE?
 
A    We were positioned defensively at the start of the year. The fund's
duration was relatively short compared to its peers. Duration is a measurement
of a fund's sensitivity to interest rates--the shorter the duration, the less
sensitive the fund is to interest rate changes. We favored mortgage securities
and short-term Treasury bonds because these types of securities tend to
outperform intermediate- and long-term Treasuries in a rising interest rate
environment. This portfolio composition lessened the impact of the Fed's rate
hike on the fund in March.
 
Q    HAVE YOU MADE FURTHER ADJUSTMENTS IN THE PORTFOLIO SINCE MARCH?
 
A    As it was clear that economic growth would moderate and inflation would
remain in check, we reduced our position in short-term Treasuries and mortgages
in favor of intermediate- and long-term Treasuries. Longer-term Treasuries
generally perform well in a moderate or declining rate environment, which is
what we experienced the last few months of the period.
 
Q    WHAT IS YOUR OUTLOOK FOR THE ECONOMY AND THE GOVERNMENT BOND MARKET?
 
A    Our outlook for the market is optimistic. Growth in the economy has slowed
since the Fed's intervention in March. Inflation remains benign and economic
growth remains moderate. At this point in time, it appears unlikely that the Fed
will adjust interest rates. This is a positive environment for the government
bond market and the fund.
 
Q    WHAT WOULD NEED TO HAPPEN TO ALTER YOUR OUTLOOK?
 
A    If the economy takes off, the Fed would most likely be aggressive with rate
increases, which could hurt the bond market until growth truly slows and rates
stabilize. However, based on the current data, we don't expect a surge in
economic growth.
 
 6
 
<PAGE>   7
PORTFOLIO STATISTICS
 
PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION*
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            ON 6/30/97              ON 12/31/96
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                         <C>                     <C>
MORTGAGES                                       42%                      52%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LONG-TERM GOVERNMENTS                           22                       --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INTERMEDIATE-TERM GOVERNMENTS                   10                       28
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SHORT-TERM GOVERNMENTS AND CASH
EQUIVALENTS (ONE YEAR OR LESS)                  26                       20
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               100%                     100%
</TABLE>
 
                                            [PIE CHART]              [PIE CHART]
                                            ON 6/30/97               ON 12/31 96
AVERAGE MATURITY
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         ON 6/30/97               ON 12/31/96
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>                      <C>
AVERAGE MATURITY                          6.3 YEARS                6.2 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
 
* Portfolio composition is subject to change.
 
                                                                               7
 
<PAGE>   8
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS
 
KEMPER INTERMEDIATE GOVERNMENT TRUST
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS AT JUNE 30, 1997 (UNAUDITED)
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   COUPON                     PRINCIPAL
    U. S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS                TYPE                RATE         MATURITY      AMOUNT      VALUE
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>                       <C>             <C>           <C>         <C>
U.S. TREASURY                         Notes                     8.125-9.25%        1998        $55,500    $ 57,445
SECURITIES - 72.3%                                              8.00               1999         22,000      22,815
(Cost: $196,510)                                                8.75               2000         22,240      23,793
                                      Bonds                     13.75              2004          7,450      10,482
                                                                9.125-10.375       2009         10,242      12,165
                                                                12.75              2010          2,495       3,462
                                                                12.00              2013          3,700       5,206
                                                                12.50-13.25        2014         37,105      56,036
                                      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                           191,404
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GOVERNMENT NATIONAL                (a)Adjustable rate           6.00-7.00          2027         12,000      12,234
MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION                  mortgages                 7.125              2022          5,334       5,485
- - 16.5%                                                         7.00             2022-2026       5,190       5,101
(Cost: $42,492)                       Pass-through              7.50             2022-2025      19,644      19,749
                                      certificates              9.00             2016-2025       1,097       1,167
                                      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                            43,736
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FEDERAL NATIONAL                      Collateralized mortgage
MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION                  obligation                6.25               2022         10,000       9,608
- - 15.7%                               Pass-through              7.00-7.50          2027         32,000      31,923
(Cost: $40,442)                       certificates
                                      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                            41,531
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FEDERAL HOME LOAN                     Collateralized mortgage   6.50               2012          5,000       4,908
MORTGAGE CORPORATION                  obligations               6.25-7.00          2021         22,000      21,559
- - 10.0%
(Cost: $25,103)
                                      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                            26,467
                                      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      TOTAL INVESTMENTS--114.5%
                                      (Cost: $304,547)                                                     303,138
                                      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      LIABILITIES, LESS CASH AND OTHER ASSETS--(14.5)%                     (38,409)
                                      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      NET ASSETS--100%                                                    $264,729
                                      ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 NOTES TO PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
(a) The coupon rates on these securities vary with a selected index at specified
    intervals and the rates shown above are the effective rates on June 30,
    1997. The dates shown represent the final maturity of the obligations.
 
Based on the cost of investments of $304,547,000 for federal income tax purposes
at June 30, 1997, the gross unrealized appreciation was $3,774,000, the gross
unrealized depreciation was $5,183,000 and the net unrealized depreciation on
investments was $1,409,000.
 
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
 
 8
 
<PAGE>   9
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

JUNE 30, 1997 (UNAUDITED)
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                                <C>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 ASSETS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investments, at value
(Cost: $304,547)                                                   $303,138
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash                                                                  1,064
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Receivable for:
  Investments sold                                                    4,709
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Interest                                                            5,064
===========================================================================
    TOTAL ASSETS                                                    313,975

- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Payable for:
  Investments purchased                                              49,029
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Management fee                                                        177
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Custodian and transfer agent fees and related expenses                 11
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Trustees' fees and other                                               29
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Total liabilities                                                49,246
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSETS                                                         $264,729
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Paid-in capital                                                    $313,456
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Accumulated net realized loss on investments                        (47,318)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net unrealized depreciation on investments                           (1,409)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSETS APPLICABLE TO SHARES OUTSTANDING                        $264,729
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE, $.01 PAR VALUE
($264,729 / 33,996 shares outstanding)                                $7.79
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
 
See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.
 
                                                                               9
 
<PAGE>   10
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997 (unaudited)
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                                    <C>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 NET INVESTMENT INCOME
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Interest income                                                         $11,225
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Expenses:
    Management fee                                                          1,060
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Custodian and transfer agent fees and related expenses                     72
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Professional fees                                                          37
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Reports to shareholders                                                    32
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Trustees' fees and other                                                   55
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Total expenses                                                        1,256
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET INVESTMENT INCOME                                                       9,969
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Net realized loss on sales of investments                                  (478)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Net realized gain from futures transactions                                 282
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Net realized loss                                                        (196)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Change in net unrealized appreciation on investments                     (2,343)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net loss on investments                                                    (2,539)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS                      $ 7,430
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
 
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
 
(IN THOUSANDS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    SIX MONTHS
                                                       ENDED              ONE MONTH
                                                     JUNE 30,               ENDED              YEAR ENDED
                                                       1997             DECEMBER 31,          NOVEMBER 30,
                                                    (UNAUDITED)             1996                  1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                 <C>                 <C>                   <C>
 OPERATIONS AND DIVIDENDS
  Net investment income                              $  9,969                1,515                20,818
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Net realized gain (loss)                               (196)                 856                (6,189)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Change in net unrealized
  appreciation/depreciation                            (2,343)              (4,740)               (2,933)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting
from operations                                         7,430               (2,369)               11,696
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Distribution from net investment income              (9,969)              (1,515)              (20,956)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Tax return of capital distribution                   (1,250)                (355)                 (462)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions to shareholders                   (11,219)              (1,870)              (21,418)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS                           (3,789)              (4,239)               (9,722)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 NET ASSETS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Beginning of period                                   268,518              272,757               282,479
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
END OF PERIOD                                        $264,729              268,518               272,757
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
 
 10
 
<PAGE>   11
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                        
1    SIGNIFICANT             DESCRIPTION OF FUND. Kemper Intermediate Government
     ACCOUNTING POLICIES     Trust (the Fund) is registered under the Investment
                             Company Act of 1940 as a diversified, closed-end
                             management investment company.
 
                             INVESTMENT VALUATION. Investments are stated at
                             value. Fixed income securities are valued by using
                             market quotations, or independent pricing services
                             that use prices provided by market makers or
                             estimates of market values obtained from yield data
                             relating to instruments or securities with similar
                             characteristics. Portfolio securities that are
                             traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued
                             at the last sale price on the exchange where
                             primarily traded or, if there is no recent sale, at
                             the last current bid quotation. Portfolio
                             securities that are primarily traded on foreign
                             securities exchanges are generally valued at the
                             preceding closing values of such securities on
                             their respective exchanges where primarily traded.
                             Securities not so traded are valued at the last
                             current bid quotation if market quotations are
                             available. Exchange traded financial futures and
                             options are valued at the settlement price
                             established each day by the board of trade or
                             exchange on which they are traded. Over-the-counter
                             traded fixed income options are valued based upon
                             prices provided by market makers. Other securities
                             and assets are valued at fair value as determined
                             in good faith by the Board of Trustees.
 
                             INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS AND INVESTMENT
                             INCOME. Investment transactions are accounted for
                             on the trade date (date the order to buy or sell is
                             executed). Interest income is recorded on the
                             accrual basis and includes discount amortization on
                             all fixed income securities and premium
                             amortization on mortgage-backed securities.
                             Realized gains and losses from investment
                             transactions are reported on an identified cost
                             basis.
 
                             The Fund may purchase securities with delivery or
                             payment to occur at a later date. At the time the
                             Fund enters into a commitment to purchase a
                             security, the transaction is recorded and the value
                             of the security is reflected in the net asset
                             value. The value of the security may vary with
                             market fluctuations. No interest accrues to the
                             Fund until payment takes place. At the time the
                             Fund enters into this type of transaction it is
                             required to segregate cash or other liquid assets
                             equal to the value of the securities purchased. At
                             June 30, 1997 the Fund had $48,988,000 in purchase
                             commitments outstanding (19% of net assets) with a
                             corresponding amount of assets segregated.
 
                             FEDERAL INCOME TAXES. The Fund has complied with
                             the special provisions of the Internal Revenue Code
                             available to investment companies for the six
                             months ended June 30, 1997. The accumulated net
                             realized loss on sales of investments for federal
                             income tax purposes at June 30, 1997, amounting to
                             approximately $47,304,000, is available to offset
                             future taxable gains. If not applied, the loss
                             carryover expires during the period 1997 through
                             2005.
 
                             DIVIDENDS TO SHAREHOLDERS. The Fund declares and
                             pays dividends to its shareholders on a monthly
                             basis. The dividends are recorded by the Fund on
                             the ex-dividend date. In April 1996, the Fund
                             adopted a managed distribution policy. In the
                             current interest rate environment, the Fund intends
                             to pay a monthly distribution of $.055 per share.
                             The distribution will be made from net investment
                             income, net realized gains and, to the extent
                             necessary, paid-in capital.
 
                                                                              11
 
<PAGE>   12
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                    
2    TRANSACTIONS            MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT. The Fund has a management
     WITH AFFILIATES         agreement with Zurich Kemper Investments, Inc.
                             (ZKI), and pays a management fee at an annual rate
                             of .80% of average weekly net assets. The Fund
                             incurred a management fee of $1,060,000 for the six
                             months ended June 30, 1997.
 
                             SHAREHOLDER SERVICES AGREEMENT. Pursuant to a
                             services agreement with the Fund's transfer agent,
                             Zurich Kemper Service Company (ZKSvC) (formerly
                             known as Kemper Service Company) is the shareholder
                             service agent of the Fund. Under the agreement,
                             ZKSvC received shareholder services fees of $18,000
                             for the six months ended June 30, 1997.
 
                             OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES. Certain officers or trustees
                             of the Fund are also officers or directors of ZKI.
                             During the six months ended June 30, 1997, the Fund
                             made no payments to its officers and incurred
                             trustees' fees of $15,000 to independent trustees.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                 
3    INVESTMENT              For the six months ended June 30, 1997, investment
     TRANSACTIONS            transactions (excluding short-term instruments) are
                             as follows (in thousands):
 
                             Purchases                                  $428,948
 
                             Proceeds from sales                         456,087
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                      
4    FINANCIAL FUTURES       The Fund has entered into exchange traded financial
     CONTRACTS               futures contracts in order to help protect itself
                             from anticipated market conditions and, as such,
                             bears the risk that arises from entering into these
                             contracts.
 
                             At the time the Fund enters into a futures
                             contract, it is required to make a margin deposit
                             with its custodian. Subsequently, gain or loss is
                             recognized and payments are made on a daily basis
                             between the Fund and its broker as the market value
                             of the futures contract fluctuates. At June 30,
                             1997, the market value of assets pledged by the
                             Fund to cover margin requirements for open futures
                             positions was $3,082,000. The Fund also had liquid
                             securities in its portfolio in excess of the face
                             amount of the following short futures positions
                             open at June 30, 1997:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           FACE         EXPIRATION      LOSS AT
                                      TYPE                AMOUNT          MONTH         6/30/97
                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
                             <S>                        <C>            <C>             <C>
                             U.S. Treasury                             
                             securities                 $52,243,000    September '97   $(180,000)
                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
                             Eurodollar                  12,695,000    September '97     (11,000)
                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
                             Eurodollar                  11,962,000    December '97      (10,000)
                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
                             Eurodollar                  10,542,000    March '98         (11,000)
                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
                             Eurodollar                   8,191,000    June '98           (6,000)
                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
                             Eurodollar                   2,572,000    September '98      (1,000)
                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Total                                                 $(219,000)
                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
 
 12
 
<PAGE>   13
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          SIX MONTHS     ONE MONTH
                                             ENDED         ENDED              YEAR ENDED NOVEMBER 30,
                                           JUNE 30,     DECEMBER 31,   -------------------------------------
                                             1997           1996        1996      1995      1994      1993
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                       <C>           <C>            <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>     
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period          $7.90          8.02         8.31      7.77      8.69      8.81
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
  Net investment income                         .30           .04          .61       .58       .63       .71
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)      (.08)         (.10)        (.27)      .56      (.87)     (.12)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations                .22          (.06)         .34      1.14      (.24)      .59
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions:
  Distribution from net investment income       .30           .05          .62       .60       .68       .71
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Tax return of capital distribution            .03           .01          .01        --        --        --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions                             .33           .06          .63       .60       .68       .71
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period                $7.79          7.90         8.02      8.31      7.77      8.69
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Market value, end of period                   $7.44          7.13         7.38      7.13      7.13      8.50
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 TOTAL RETURN (NOT ANNUALIZED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Based on net asset value                       2.87%         (.81)        4.38     15.20     (2.85)     6.90
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Based on market value                          9.14%        (2.66)       12.73      8.50     (8.36)     3.88
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS (ANNUALIZED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses                                        .95%          .95          .91       .95       .94       .92
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income                          7.52%         6.74         7.61      7.28      7.68      8.02
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets at end of period (in
thousands)                                 $264,729       268,518      272,757   282,479   264,063   295,471
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (annualized)            273%           72          577       552       497       326
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
 
NOTES: Data for the six months ended June 30, 1997 is unaudited.
 
Total return based on net asset value reflects changes in the Fund's net asset
value during the period. Total return based on market value reflects changes in
market value. Each figure includes reinvestment of dividends. These figures will
differ depending upon the level of any discount from or premium to net asset
value at which the Fund's shares trade during the period.
 
                                                                              13
 
<PAGE>   14
SHAREHOLDERS' MEETING
 
ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS' MEETING
 
On May 29, 1997, an annual shareholders' meeting was held. Kemper Intermediate
Government Trust shareholders were asked to vote on two separate issues:
re-election of the eight members to the Board of Trustees and ratification of
Ernst & Young LLP as independent auditors. Following are the results for each
issue:
 
1) Re-election of Trustees
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               For       Withheld
   <S>                      <C>          <C>
   James E. Akins           29,806,823   784,027
   Arthur R. Gottschalk     29,865,590   725,260
   Frederick T. Kelsey      29,872,526   718,324
   Dominique P. Morax       29,822,661   768,189
   Fred B. Renwick          29,820,697   770,153
   Stephen B. Timbers       29,875,896   714,954
   John B. Tingleff         29,875,745   715,105
   John G. Weithers         29,870,657   720,193
</TABLE>
 
2) Ratification of the selection of Ernst & Young LLP as independent auditors
   for the fund
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                  For              Against             Abstain
              <S>                 <C>                <C>
              30,137,137           201,300            252,412
</TABLE>


 
 14
 
<PAGE>   15
NOTES








 
                                                                              15
 
<PAGE>   16
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS
 
TRUSTEES                               OFFICERS
 
STEPHEN B. TIMBERS                     ELIZABETH A. BYRNES     
President and Trustee                  Vice President          
                                                               
JAMES E. AKINS                         CHARLES R. MANZONI, JR. 
Trustee                                Vice President          
                                                               
ARTHUR R. GOTTSCHALK                   JOHN E. NEAL            
Trustee                                Vice President          
                                                               
FREDERICK T. KELSEY                    ROBERT C. PECK, JR.     
Trustee                                Vice President          
                                                               
FRED B. RENWICK                        RICHARD L. VANDENBERG   
Trustee                                Vice President          
                                                               
JOHN B. TINGLEFF                       PHILIP J. COLLORA       
Trustee                                Vice President          
                                       and Secretary           
JOHN G. WEITHERS                                               
Trustee                                JEROME L. DUFFY         
                                       Treasurer               
                        
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LEGAL COUNSEL                 VEDDER, PRICE, KAUFMAN & KAMMHOLZ
                              222 North LaSalle Street
                              Chicago, IL 60601
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SHAREHOLDER SERVICE AGENT     ZURICH KEMPER SERVICE COMPANY
                              P.O. Box 419066
                              Kansas City, MO 64141-6066
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AGENT  INVESTORS FIDUCIARY TRUST COMPANY
                              127 West 10th Street
                              Kansas City, MO 64105
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INVESTMENT MANAGER            ZURICH KEMPER INVESTMENTS, INC.
                              222 South Riverside Plaza  Chicago, IL 60606
                              www.kemper.com
 
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KIGT - 3 (8/97)   1036370
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