Entrepreneur's Corner

Kenya’s Middle Class is Significant Enough to Steer The Political Direction Of Kenya: They Are Just Lazy & Unbothered To Do It

BY Steve Biko · October 30, 2024 02:10 pm

KEY POINTS

In 2021, Kenya's poverty headcount rate stood at 38.6%, meaning 19.1 million people lived below the poverty line. This leaves 61.4% of the population, encompassing both the middle class and the affluent. However, it's crucial to recognize that this group is not monolithic.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Politically, the middle class can be a powerful force for change. Their awareness of social and economic issues, coupled with their desire for a better quality of life, can influence policy decisions and government accountability. As access to information and technology increases, the middle class is becoming more vocal and engaged in civic discourse.

The existence and significance of a middle class in Kenya have been subjects of intense debate. Some argue that the middle class is a negligible force, while others contend that it holds the potential to shape the nation’s political and economic landscape. To understand the role of the Kenyan middle class, we must first establish who is not considered poor.

In 2021, Kenya’s poverty headcount rate stood at 38.6%, meaning 19.1 million people lived below the poverty line. This leaves 61.4% of the population, encompassing both the middle class and the affluent. However, it’s crucial to recognize that this group is not monolithic. Just as there are varying degrees of poverty, there are also different strata within the middle class. Some members barely surpass the poverty threshold, making them vulnerable to economic shocks, while others enjoy greater financial security.

Data from the African Development Bank sheds light on the composition of the middle class in Africa. It distinguishes between the “floating middle class,” those slightly above the poverty line, and the “real middle class,” positioned between the floating class and the wealthy. In 2010, 44.9% of Kenyans belonged to the middle class, with 28.1% in the floating class and 16.8% in the actual middle class.

While the COVID-19 pandemic likely impacted these figures, pushing some from the floating class back into poverty, the data dispels the notion that Kenya lacks a middle class or that this group is uniformly precarious. It’s important to acknowledge that the definition of “middle class” varies by country. Just as income levels that define wealth in Kenya might not translate to the United States, the Kenyan middle class might not align with the global middle class. Context and cost of living are critical factors.

The Kenyan middle class, representing a significant portion of the population, plays a vital role in the country’s economy and society. Their consumption patterns drive demand for goods and services, fueling economic growth. They contribute to tax revenue, supporting public services and infrastructure development. Moreover, their educational attainment and professional skills form the backbone of the workforce, driving innovation and productivity.

However, the Kenyan middle class faces numerous challenges. The rising cost of living, limited access to quality education and healthcare, and unemployment threaten their stability and growth. Addressing these challenges is crucial for fostering a robust middle class that can contribute to sustainable development and inclusive prosperity.

In conclusion, Kenya undoubtedly possesses a middle class, and its size and potential impact are substantial. While the pandemic might have altered its composition, the middle class remains a vital force in shaping Kenya’s future. Recognizing its importance and addressing its challenges are essential steps towards building a more equitable and prosperous society.