A new survey by Infotrak Research & Consulting has revealed that most Kenyans anticipate higher school fees in 2026. The recent survey shows that 61% of respondents believe school fees will increase, while 11% expect no change, 21% foresee a reduction, and 7% remain uncertain. This means that School fees are among the top challenges that Kenyans are grappling with
The survey further highlighted economic anxieties, with 61% of respondents predicting an overall rise in the cost of living. Only 21% expect expenses to ease, 10% anticipate stability, and 8% were unsure.
Unemployment emerged as another pressing concern, with 59% of respondents fearing joblessness will worsen in 2026. In contrast, 23% believe the situation will improve, 11% expect it to remain unchanged, and 8% were uncertain.
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The survey revealed mixed expectations about the year ahead. Twenty-nine per cent of respondents believe 2026 will be better than 2025, citing hopes of an improving economy, stronger personal finances, and continued peace. Another 25% expect conditions to remain the same, while 16% predict a worse year. Thirty per cent said they do not know what to expect.
Among those who expressed optimism, 35% pointed to expectations of economic growth, 22% anticipated improvements in their personal financial situations, and 21% credited peace and stability as reasons for hope. On the other hand, nearly half of those who expect 2026 to be worse cited fears of economic decline. Thirty-four per cent worried their personal finances would deteriorate, 16% believed their businesses would suffer, 15% feared job losses or retrenchment, and 6 per cent pointed to the possibility of drought as a driver of pessimism.
By Masaki Enock
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