NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya’s inflation rate crept slightly higher in November, hitting 2.8pc, up from 2.7pc in October, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS).
While the increase may seem modest, the report highlights shifts in the prices of key commodities that directly impact household budgets.
The slight inflationary rise is mainly attributed to higher prices for food and non-alcoholic beverages, which collectively saw a 0.6pc increase in November.
Essential staples bore the brunt of the hike: cooking oil prices surged by 3.1pc, sugar jumped by 5.3pc, and sifted maize flour climbed by 5.1pc.
“Overall year-on-year (annual) inflation rate, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), was 2.8pc in November 2024, marking a slight increase from 2.7pc in October 2024. The month-to-month inflation rate was 0.3pc in November 2024,” noted the KNBS report.
For context, Kenya’s medium-term inflation target is set between 2.5p and 7.5pc, leaving the current rate well within the desired range.
While food prices rose, households saw a slight reprieve in energy costs. The prices of electricity, water, gas, and other fuels dropped by 0.1pc.
This decline was primarily driven by a 1.1pc dip in LPG gas prices and a 0.3pc reduction in electricity costs. These changes, though small, offered some relief to families managing tight budgets.
The pricing adjustments reflect a mix of market dynamics and policy interventions. However, the ongoing food price increases may continue to overshadow such benefits for many Kenyans.
Ever wonder how inflation is measured? KNBS collects retail prices for the Consumer Price Index during the second and third weeks of each month.
Data is gathered from 50 sampling zones nationwide, including 14 in Nairobi and 36 in other urban centers. In Nairobi alone, prices are recorded in lower, middle, and upper-income areas to ensure comprehensive representation.
