TIFA poll: Nearly two-thirds of households say life is still worse since Ruto was elected president
By K24 Digital Reporter, June 4, 2026Fresh survey findings have revealed that many Kenyan households continue to struggle economically despite signs of gradual improvement in public perceptions, with nearly two-thirds saying their financial situation remains worse than it was after the 2022 general election.
According to new findings by Trends and Insights For Africa (TIFA), 64 per cent of households said their economic situation or that of their families is worse compared to the period immediately after the last election. Only 19 per cent reported improvements, while 18 per cent said their situation remained unchanged.
The latest findings suggest that although the proportion of Kenyans reporting deteriorating conditions has gradually reduced from 75 per cent in May 2025 to 64 per cent in May 2026, the improvements have remained modest and have not significantly changed the wider economic picture.
“Economic sentiment remains fragile, with nearly two-thirds of households still reporting that they are worse off compared to the last election,” TIFA stated.
The findings further indicate that while economic perceptions have improved slightly over the last year, many households are yet to feel tangible benefits in their daily lives.
TIFA noted that the percentage of those reporting improved conditions rose from 10 per cent in May 2025 to 19 per cent in May 2026, suggesting modest gains.
However, the report observed that such changes have not translated into broader confidence among households.
“While the proportion reporting deterioration has gradually declined over time, gains remain modest and have not yet shifted the broader economic narrative at the household level,” the report noted.
Tax burden emerges as a major concern
The findings mirror another TIFA survey released this week which identified taxation as the biggest concern facing Kenyans.
According to the report, only seven per cent of Kenyans said taxation had improved their lives while 74 per cent said it had made life worse.
The report described taxation as “the clearweakest-performing area with overwhelmingdissatisfaction.”
Economic concerns were also found to dominate public thinking, with 47 per cent identifying inflation, high prices and taxes as the country’s biggest challenge.
Rising costs continue to shape public mood
The survey further linked economic pressure to wider public dissatisfaction and declining confidence in governance institutions.
According to TIFA, around 74 per cent of Kenyans believe the country is heading in the wrong direction, compared to only 14 per cent who believe Kenya is moving in the right direction.
The findings suggest that for many households, concerns over taxation, unemployment and the cost of living continue to shape economic experiences and public outlook.
“Cost-of-living pressures are increasingly shaping public sentiment and perceptions of national well-being,” the report stated.