TIFA poll shows most Kenyan households still financially worse off despite minor economic gains nationwide

Most Kenyan households continue to face financial pressure despite small economic improvements, according to a new survey by Trends and Insights for Africa (TIFA).

The poll, released on Thursday, December 18, shows that many families feel worse off than when President William Ruto took office, pointing to persistent hardship in the lived economy. Data was collected between November 10 and 17, covering 2,053 adults across all 47 counties.

The survey indicates that unemployment, poverty and rising prices remain the dominant concerns for Kenyans, outweighing political, security or social issues. TIFA notes that while the pace of economic decline may be slowing, recovery has yet to translate into real relief for households.

The report further highlights deep inequalities, including continued reliance on firewood for cooking, especially in rural areas, underscoring ongoing vulnerability as the country heads toward the 2027 elections.