"Kuinama" and Other Ways University Students Navigate High Cost of Living

In the midst of Kenya's severe economic downturn, a remarkable 75% of university students, known as 'comrades,' are demonstrating resilience and resourcefulness to combat the escalating cost of living.

The current economic challenges in Kenya, characterized by a depreciating shilling, high taxation, and harsh business conditions, have significantly impacted students in tertiary institutions. Despite these adversities, students are adapting to survive, displaying a commendable ability to live within their means and alleviate financial pressures.

Income Diversification Spurs Independence

Many students have turned to income diversification as a means of escaping financial constraints. Orchard Kiplagat, a third-year Geography and Economics student at Chuka University, shared his journey, stating, "I decided to start my own business selling chapattis on the outskirts of the university. I felt I was becoming a burden to my parents, and since then, I have managed to become independent, living within my means."

Strategic Budgeting and Resource Sharing

To cope with the rising cost of living, students are strategically cutting expenses by prioritizing basic needs over secondary ones. Innovative budgeting has become a crucial survival skill, with students pooling resources and sharing living spaces to alleviate the burden of high rents.

Meal Planning Strategies

In the face of expensive meal options, students are employing meal planning strategies to stretch their limited budgets. Many have adopted the practice of "kuinama," where they choose to have one meal a day, costing approximately 100 shillings, instead of three, thereby minimizing their daily expenditure to 250 shillings.

Persistent Struggles Amid Rising Academic Costs

Despite these commendable efforts, the financial challenges persist. Escalating tuition fees, costly reading materials, and other academic expenditures contribute to the monetary burden borne by university students.

Nevertheless, the resilience of university students shines through amidst these challenges. Their collaborative spirit and innovative approaches in the face of financial hardships underscore their determination to pursue education, regardless of the obstacles.

The Writer, Feddy Nancy Mwende is a Third Year Communication Studies Student at Chuka University.