A new survey has revealed that only 5 percent of Kenyans never experience financial stress, highlighting the widespread economic pressures affecting households.
The Tala 2025 MoneyMarch report found that while some Kenyans remain optimistic about their financial future, the majority continue to grapple with financial anxiety.
The report indicates that 12 percent of Kenyans feel constantly stressed about their finances, while 2o percent experience financial pressure frequently. Additionally, 45 percent report occasional stress, and 18 percent say they rarely worry about their financial situation.
Despite these challenges, 46 percent of Kenyans remain hopeful about their financial future, while 41 percent have a neutral outlook.
Retirement Plans and Financial Aspirations
Even amid financial strain, 58 percent of Kenyans aim to retire in their fifties, with 76 percent already having a retirement savings plan.
However, factors such as high expenses, irregular income, uncertainty, and lack of financial literacy continue to hinder many from saving adequately for retirement.
The report also highlights Kenyans’ financial priorities over the next five years, with many striving for business growth, home ownership, emergency savings, and education funding.
Most Kenyans dedicate between 11 and 20 percent of their income to investments, particularly in SACCOs, chamas, retirement funds, real estate, stocks, and cryptocurrency.
Shifting Income Sources and Digital Investments
The findings also point to a decline in full-time employment as the main source of income, with more Kenyans venturing into business ownership. However, financial constraints have limited participation in side hustles, as the high cost of living consumes disposable income that would typically be invested in business ventures.
Additionally, digital investment platforms continue to gain traction, with fifty-seven percent of Kenyans having invested through them. However, concerns such as low income, fear of loss, lack of trusted platforms, and insufficient financial knowledge prevent many from fully embracing digital investment opportunities.
Despite the economic difficulties, the report underscores Kenyans’ resilience and their commitment to securing a better financial future through strategic planning, investments, and alternative income sources.
