TIFA Survey: Finance Bill 2025 driving up living costs for majority of Kenyans
The report reveals that only a small number of citizens believe the bill will improve public services, with the majority reporting a negative impact on their finances.
A recent TIFA survey shows that Finance Bill 2025 is worsening the cost of living for most Kenyans, leaving many households struggling to meet daily expenses.
The survey, conducted between August 23 and September 3, 2025, covered 2,023 randomly selected adults across all 47 counties, capturing views on household finances, government policies, political alignment, and expectations ahead of the 2027 general election.
”New bill has increased the cost of basic goods and services (e.g., food, transport, utilities) to 82 per cent. The bill has also increased taxes on my salary or income to 31 per cent,” TIFA said on Thursday.
The report reveals that only a small number of citizens believe the bill will improve public services, with the majority reporting a negative impact on their finances.
The survey found that the new Finance Bill has reduced disposable income or savings for 21 per cent of respondents.
Many Kenyans also reported that the bill has made it harder to run or sustain businesses, a challenge indicated by 19 per cent of those surveyed.
Finance Bill 2025 has additionally increased the cost of living by 16 per cent through adjustments meant to fund or enhance public services, such as health, education, and security. About 12 per cent of respondents said the bill forced them to delay or cancel personal plans, including school, travel, and investment projects.
Overall, 65 per cent of Kenyans reported being negatively affected by the bill, 31 per cent said they were not affected, while 3 per cent were unsure of its impact.
TIFA’s survey also looked at how these economic pressures relate to political views and opinions on the Broad-Based Government (BBG).
The findings provide insight into why citizens hold contrasting views about the government pact, aside from identity-based factors.
TIFA cautioned that subsequent political and economic developments may have shifted public opinion, but said the results reflect a reliable snapshot of Kenyan attitudes during the survey period.
