This archive report was first published on 21 June 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the global economy, Kenyans are feeling the pinch. According to a recent study by Infotrak research firm, nearly half of the country's population is relying on food donations to sustain themselves.
The study, which was conducted across all 47 counties, shows that the pandemic has pushed majority Kenyans to the edge, with many struggling to make ends meet. The survey reveals that 47% of the country's population cannot afford basic needs such as food and are now depending on donations.
What's more, the poll shows that more than half of employed Kenyans are now earning reduced salaries, thereby reducing their purchasing power. The crisis appears to have hit the informal sector harder than any other, with most people unable to make ends meet as they did before.
The rent crisis facing most urban Kenyans is real, with 63% of Kenyans saying they are unable to pay their rent on time while 60% say they are unable to pay their rent in full. The study also showed that the COVID-19 pandemic presented a personal finance dilemma at 41% while 35% felt that the pandemic presented both personal health and personal finance dilemma.
1200 respondents participated in the research that was conducted between May 28th and 2nd June this year.
