Most Kenyans are scaling back or skipping Christmas celebrations this year as economic pressures continue to strain household budgets, a new Infotrak poll shows.
The nationwide survey found that only 45 per cent of respondents plan to celebrate Christmas, up slightly from 40 per cent last year. However, a majority 55 per cent said they will not mark the festive season as they traditionally do.
Among those opting out, 78 per cent cited lack of money as the main reason, while others said they had lost interest in celebrations or would be working during the holiday period. Financial strain was most pronounced in Nairobi and Western Kenya, where nearly nine in ten respondents said they could not afford to celebrate.
For those who will mark the season, celebrations are expected to be modest, with more Kenyans choosing family time and prayer over costly social activities.
