Kenyans enter 2026 with cautious hope amid economic struggles

Parent captured at Kakamega main market after buying a school box for his child on December 31,2025. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

A section of Kenyans has expressed pessimism ahead in the New Year as they claimed tough economic times marked by high cost of living has dampened their spirits.

Interviews with a number of Kenyans in different parts of the country established that their expectations revolve around good health, economic relief and responsible leadership, following a year marked by hardship, rising costs of living and national uncertainty.