44% of Kenyans Say Unemployment and Poverty Are the Country’s Biggest Problems

Unemployment and poverty have emerged as Kenyans’ leading national concerns, with 44 per cent of respondents in a new TIFA survey identifying them as the country’s biggest challenges.

The survey, conducted by Trends and Insights for Africa (TIFA) between 13 and 26 June 2026, found that unemployment and poverty had returned to the top of the list after inflation and rising fuel prices briefly took precedence earlier in the year. TIFA said the impact of the fuel price increases seen in April and May had since eased, allowing concerns over jobs and household incomes to regain prominence.

Inflation and high taxation were cited by 25 per cent of respondents. Corruption was identified by 19 per cent, while 7 per cent named poor leadership as a major concern. Other issues included limited access to healthcare, insecurity, political and ethnic tensions, and threats to peace and stability.

The survey also found that perceptions of household finances have worsened since the 2022 election. Nearly two-thirds of respondents said their household economic situation had deteriorated during that period.

Only 58 per cent of Kenyans surveyed said they were engaged in full-time or part-time work, including self-employment. Just 11 per cent reported earning more than KSh50,000 a month, highlighting the limited access to higher-paying employment.

TIFA said the findings could have political implications if living standards do not improve significantly over the next year.