This archive report was first published on 20 December 2019.
Kenya: 'How We Plan to Spend During This Christmas Season' ¶
Published on December 20, 2019
As the holiday season approaches, many Kenyans are bracing themselves for the financial strain that comes with it. A 2013 study by Ipsos-Synovate found that 74 per cent of Kenyans planned to spend more over Christmas on items like travel, clothes, mobile phones and food.
Clinton Ongeri, a 26-year-old entrepreneur, has learned from past mistakes. In 2015, he went on a spending spree, only to find himself financially strained in January 2016. He now budgets carefully, allocating funds for travel, food and airtime.
"I have long realised that social media is just about façades," Clinton says. "I have seen my friends suffering from debts because they were struggling to portray a certain lifestyle."
Jackline Achieng', a 22-year-old salesperson, also learned from her past experiences. In 2017, she spent excessively, only to find herself broke in January 2018. She now budgets and saves, with a plan that runs up to April 2019.
"I have to be careful not to exceed my budget," Jackline says. "If my friends call me to go to a concert or eat out at a place I cannot afford, I just make up an excuse - say I am busy or not around and let it slide."
Faith Amatuva Mulupi, a 27-year-old carpet designer, has also found herself overspending during the festive seasons. This year, she wants to put in extra efforts to navigate within her budget.
"I tried to plan in all the past years but I think something just happens in December and the plans fly out of the window," Faith says. "This year, I am minimising on gift-buying and also just being realistic and working within my budget."
