81% of Nairobi residents very concerned about rising prices, TIFA finds

A new survey conducted by TIFA Research has revealed that 81% of Nairobi residents are very concerned about the rising prices of essential goods and services. The survey, released on August 20, 2026, found that high costs of food, fuel, transport, and other household necessities are putting pressure on household budgets. Concern was particularly high among people aged 35 and above (91%) and women (84%).

The survey showed that 62% of respondents identified high living costs, including transport, fuel, food, and education, as a major financial challenge. Another 19% pointed to constrained incomes due to low earnings, poor business performance, and unemployment. TIFA warned that households have little capacity to absorb further price increases, which could deepen financial hardship and reduce consumer spending.

Transport costs rose the fastest among the three categories, with a 15.6% increase, adding pressure to commuting and moving goods. The survey also highlighted the high price sensitivity of Nairobi's ride-hailing users. Only 27% of ride-hailing users were aware of the government's proposed minimum fare policy, and 42% expected the policy to negatively affect passengers through higher costs.

Additionally, 60% of ride-hailing users said they would switch to alternatives like matatus if fares increased significantly, demonstrating that passenger demand is highly price-sensitive.