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Job is not enough: TIFA reveals how Kenyans are turning to side hustles to survive
09th September, 2026 12:20 PM
Rising living costs are pushing more Kenyans to rethink how they earn and manage their money. For many households, relying on one salary or a single source of income is becoming increasingly difficult as the cost of food, transport, rent and other essentials continues to put pressure on household budgets.
A TIFA research report released on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, highlights the changing economic reality, noting that household income levels have remained relatively constant while inflation and increases in fuel prices have weakened purchasing power.
Employment is no longer the only source of income
According to TIFA, 58 per cent of Kenyan adults were working, including those engaged in self-employment, a decline from 63 per cent recorded in November 2025.
“In terms of employment, just over half of Kenyan adults are working either full- or part-time (including those in self-employment: 58%), a slight decline from that proportion in TIFA last (November, 2025) survey (63%). Yet total household income figures show that only about one-in-ten (11%) are enjoying incomes of more than Ksh 50,000/- per month, hardly any change from the figures obtained in TIFA’s two previous surveys,” the survey read in part.
“More than two-thirds of Kenyans ( 47% + 23% = 70%) mentioned the economy as the country’s “most serious problem”, whether their responses took the form of unemployment/poverty (44%) or inflation/high prices 25% = total: 69%). Aside from corruption (19%), a variety of other problems attracted negligible mentions (only about 7%),” the report added.
The figures point to a challenging employment environment, where having work does not necessarily mean having enough income to comfortably meet everyday expenses.
As a result, Kenyans are increasingly exploring additional ways of making money alongside their main jobs or businesses. Side hustles can range from selling clothes and food online to freelancing, running small businesses, offering professional services or using digital platforms to generate extra income.
For some, the additional income helps cover basic expenses, while for others it provides an opportunity to save, invest or work towards financial independence.
The rise of the Kenyan side hustle
The side hustle culture has become particularly visible among young Kenyans, with social media and digital platforms making it easier to advertise products and services without the costs associated with traditional businesses.
Someone with a full-time job can, for instance, sell products through social media after work, while a person with a particular skill can take on freelance clients during their free time.
However, balancing multiple income streams can also come with challenges. Long working hours, limited rest and the pressure to constantly find new customers can affect people’s wellbeing.
For many Kenyans, therefore, the side hustle is not simply about becoming wealthy. It is increasingly becoming a practical response to an economy where a single income may no longer stretch as far as it once did. For many households, these extra earnings provide a financial cushion, helping them respond to emergencies and manage unexpected expenses without borrowing.
