How the cost of living is affecting Black Friday excitement among Kenyans – report
By Nancy Marende, November 28, 2025The soaring cost of living is significantly dampening Black Friday excitement among Kenyan shoppers, according to the latest Stahili Pulse Report.
The weekly online survey, which gathered 3,047 unique responses across the regions, paints a picture of cautious spending and shifting consumer priorities.
Also watch: Kenyans struggle as cost of living remains high
According to the report released on Friday, November 28, 2025, nearly half of Kenyans are approaching this year’s Black Friday more conservatively.
44.3 per cent of respondents said they are only buying essential items, highlighting how strained household budgets have become. Another 29.2 per cent admitted that the rising cost of living has killed their excitement for the annual shopping event.
Meanwhile, 19.6 per cent stated that Black Friday has not influenced their plans at all, suggesting a group that is either financially unmoved or uninterested in sales.
Only 6.9 per cent of respondents reported shopping more to stock up, a small segment making strategic purchases in anticipation of future price increases.
Most depend on salaries
The report also reveals how Kenyans are financing their Black Friday spending: a majority, 53.8 per cent, rely on their monthly salary or savings, indicating a preference for staying within personal financial limits.
However, flexible financing options are also gaining traction: 20.9 per cent are using buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) services, reflecting their growing appeal in the local market.
Additionally, 19.3 per cent of respondents are turning to mobile loans such as Fuliza and KCB M-Pesa to make purchases. Only 6.1 per cent plan to use credit cards, consistent with Kenya’s historically low credit card usage.
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