A recent Infotrak survey reveals that approximately 60 percent of Kenyans will not celebrate Christmas or New Year festivities due to financial difficulties. The survey highlights the impact of rising living costs, with a predominant 86 percent indicating insufficient funds as the primary reason. Economic strain is widespread across the country, affecting various demographics and regions.
A recent survey conducted by Infotrak on December 20 reveals significant economic difficulties faced by many Kenyans during this festive season. Approximately 60 percent of respondents indicated they do not plan to celebrate Christmas or New Year’s festivities due to financial constraints. The study sampled 606 adult Kenyans from all 47 counties, with a notable 86 percent citing insufficient funds as the main reason for their decision. This prevailing financial strain affects various demographics, including age, gender, and region.
The survey indicates a concerning trend in rising living costs, which have dampened holiday activities across the nation. In Nairobi, total respondents reported facing financial difficulties, with 100 percent acknowledging economic hardship. The North Eastern region exhibited a similar trend, with 91 percent encountering financial challenges, while 83 percent of individuals from the Rift Valley also expressed concerns regarding their economic situations.
Alongside economic reasons, 10 percent of participants indicated a lack of interest in the holiday season contributed to their decision. Six percent stated they would be working through the holidays, while others attributed their non-participation to religious beliefs or personal circumstances, such as not having family to celebrate with or the burden of financial obligations like school fees.
The survey employed Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI), achieving a 96 percent response rate with a margin of error of ±4.001 percent at a 95 percent confidence level. The methodology ensured representation across the eight regions of Coast, North Eastern, Eastern, Central, Rift Valley, Western, Nyanza, and Nairobi, aligning sample sizes proportionally with regional populations. As living costs continue to rise, many households struggle to partake in traditional festivities.
The survey conducted by Infotrak addresses the pressing economic challenges that have markedly influenced social behaviors in Kenya during the holiday season. Rising living costs and financial constraints are leading to diminished participation in festive celebrations among the population. The insights from this survey shed light on the economic realities that overshadow cultural festivities and social interactions, highlighting the need for broader discussions around economic conditions and support systems within the country. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for policymakers, researchers, and social services as they address the issues impacting citizens’ quality of life.
The Infotrak survey highlights a significant portion of the Kenyan population abandoning holiday celebrations due to economic constraints, with 60 percent of individuals opting out this year. The overarching financial strain, compounded by soaring living costs, prompts urgent considerations regarding economic support and community welfare. These findings emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and strategies aimed at alleviating the economic pressures faced by households, particularly during culturally significant periods.
Original Source: mwakilishi.com
