The latest Kenya Polls Spotlight – Have Your Say! survey has given Kenyans a platform to voice their views on the most urgent challenges facing the nation and the priorities they believe leaders should focus on in the coming year. The results offer a timely reflection of the issues shaping everyday life and the expectations citizens hold for governance and development.
Corruption Leads as the Biggest Concern
According to the findings, 44.12% of respondents identified corruption as Kenya’s most pressing challenge. This highlights the widespread frustration with how corruption continues to undermine public trust, weaken institutions, and slow down progress across all sectors. The message from citizens is clear: accountability and integrity in leadership must remain top priorities.
The Strain of the Rising Cost of Living
The cost of living (26.47%) was the second most significant concern, with many Kenyans feeling the weight of high food, fuel, and household expenses. When asked to evaluate the government’s performance in managing this issue, a majority rated it poorly: 41.18% very poor and 20.59% poor. Only a small fraction gave positive ratings, pointing to a need for stronger policy measures to cushion households against economic pressures.
Unemployment Remains a Persistent Challenge
Unemployment (20.59%) was also cited as a key national issue, particularly reflecting the struggles of young people seeking opportunities in a competitive job market. The survey further revealed that job creation and economic growth (55.88%) were seen as the most important priorities for leaders in the next 12 months. This underscores the urgent demand for sustainable employment strategies, entrepreneurship support, and private sector growth.
Other Issues: Healthcare, Education, and Accountability
While fewer respondents highlighted poor healthcare and education services (8.82%), these areas remain critical to Kenya’s long-term development. Additionally, 20.59% of respondents emphasized combating corruption and enhancing accountability as an immediate priority, reaffirming the link between good governance and national progress.
What the Demographics Say
The survey included a diverse group of respondents, with 58.82% male and 41.18% female. Most were drawn from Nyeri (41.18%) and Nairobi City (26.47%), alongside smaller contributions from Meru, Kwale, Kilifi, Kiambu, Laikipia, Kajiado, and the diaspora. This distribution reflects both urban and regional perspectives, though future surveys will aim to include broader county representation.
What This Means for Kenya’s Future
The message from the survey is clear: Kenyans are calling for integrity in governance, stronger economic management, and inclusive growth. Citizens want leaders who will prioritize job creation, fight corruption decisively, and improve essential services like healthcare and education. By listening to these voices, policymakers can better align their strategies with the real needs of the people.
At its core, this survey is a reminder that citizen voices matter. For Kenya to achieve sustainable progress, leaders must remain accountable and responsive to the priorities of the people they serve.