NAIROBI, Kenya– Mounting public dissatisfaction over Kenya’s economic trajectory could weigh on investor confidence, as a new Infotrak Voice of the People poll reveals that citizens overwhelmingly attribute the cost-of-living crisis to domestic taxation and governance failures.
The study shows that 79% of Kenyans believe the cost of living is higher than last year, with 70% describing it as “High” or “Very High.”
The majority (40%) blame heavy taxation for the crisis, compared to just 19% who cite global economic shocks. This sharp perception gap suggests investors face an increasingly restive market where fiscal measures are viewed as punitive rather than enabling.
“The public’s top five concerns cost of living, unemployment, SHIF/SHA, corruption, and education costs are all rooted in economic hardship and social welfare,” Infotrak said.
The report warns that without credible interventions to stabilize prices and improve social protection, consumer spending will remain constrained.
Rising discontent, particularly among older demographics and urban populations, could further strain demand across key sectors, including retail, housing, and financial services.
“Policy efforts must be seen to aggressively tackle these core livelihood issues. Failure to stabilize prices and clarify SHIF implementation will continue to fuel public anxiety,” the poll noted.
For businesses, the findings highlight both risk and opportunity. On one hand, weak purchasing power and distrust in government policy may dampen growth.
On the other, sectors that directly address affordability such as low-cost healthcare, education financing, and consumer goods stand to benefit if firms align with shifting household priorities.
Economists argue that unless the administration recalibrates its fiscal stance and improves governance, Kenya risks not only heightened domestic unrest but also reduced attractiveness to foreign investors wary of policy instability.
The poll underscores that restoring trust in government’s economic management is now as critical to business and investment as it is to household survival.
