NAIROBI, Kenya Dec 29 – Kenyans living in the northeastern part of the country have expressed the highest optimism that 2024 will usher in better prospects.
According to research firm TIFA, 7 in 10 Kenyans in that area are anticipating an improvement of fortunes as compared to 2023 and 2022.
Following closely, the Rift Valley region stands as the second most optimistic, with 68 percent believing in a positive turn for 2024.
Maggie Ireri, the CEO of the firm, interpreted the optimism as a shared confidence in positive changes and advancements anticipated in the forthcoming years.
“Policymakers and leaders may find value in understanding and aligning with the
aspirations of the populace as they work towards shaping policies and initiatives for the nation,” she said.
Overall, the survey conducted between November 25, 2023, and December 9, 2023, indicated that 61 percent of Kenyans are optimistic, foreseeing improvements in 2024 compared to the year 2022.
“This positive outlook among most Kenyan citizens signifies a hopeful perspective on the future. It reflects a collective belief in positive changes or advancements anticipated to unfold in the coming years,” Ireri said.
The survey further revealed that 7 out of 10 Kenyans believe that 2023 presented more challenges than the previous year.
Ireri disclosed that respondents generally characterized the state of affairs in 2023 as “worsening.”
“Respondents expressed that the cost of living, economic conditions, employment prospects, and access to loans were worse than the previous year,” she said.
The survey revealed significant dissatisfaction with the challenges of 2023, particularly in the regions of Nyanza at 76 percent and Nairobi at 74 percent.
Out of the 1,587 respondents, 87 percent identified the cost of living as a major factor contributing to the perceived difficulties of the year.
“This perception aligns with reality, evident in the noticeable price rise for essential household items, electricity, fuel, and more,” Ireri said.
Other factors contributing to the perceived difficulty of 2023, as listed by respondents, included economic concerns (81 percent), worries about employment opportunities (65 percent), challenges in accessing credit or loans (53 percent), and concerns about the political climate (47 percent).
President William Ruto, sworn in on September 13, 2022, following his victory in the August presidential polls, pledged to improve Kenya’s prosperity and improve living conditions.
While a significant number of Kenyans perceive him as having fallen short of his commitment, President Ruto asserts that his administration is steadfast in steering the country toward economic improvement and reducing the cost of living.
