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Do Kenyans really lack a savings culture?

It’s a question that comes up often: Do Kenyans really lack a savings culture?

The truth is more nuanced. Most people want to save. They try, sometimes even successfully for a short time. But pressures, both visible and invisible, make consistent saving incredibly difficult.

Take Mary, a young professional in Nairobi. She earns just enough to cover rent, food, and transport. Every month, she vows to save, yet ends up giving in to lifestyle temptations, new gadgets, weekend outings, or helping a friend in need. By the end of the month, her savings are… well, what savings?

Experts like Angela Mwirigi, Director DFS, from KCB say it’s less about a lack of discipline and more about habits clashing with reality. “You can save with any income,” she says, “but you can’t save with every lifestyle.”

Saving isn’t about depriving yourself. It’s about building habits that work with your income, no matter how irregular it may be. Automation, small micro-savings, and creating a buffer fund are simple, practical steps.

The lesson? Don’t beat yourself up. Instead, assess your lifestyle, set clear priorities, and let small, consistent habits become your financial lifeline.

Start today: Choose one small habit, maybe saving just KSh 100 per day. Watch it grow, slowly but surely. #JipangeNaKCB #ForPeopleForBetter 

Nov 27, 2025 Trending

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