Kevin, 27, works as a clerical officer in a government office in Nairobi. It’s a job he fought hard for sending countless applications after graduation, waiting months for replies, and enduring multiple interviews. He was proud the day he got that employment letter. But three years in, reality has hit: government salary isn’t as comfortable as he once believed.
The Toll of the Finance Bill 2024
When the Finance Bill 2024 was introduced, Kevin didn’t think much would change. But it did fast. The cost of everyday items shot up. His freelance earnings, already taxed, now had extra deductions from NSSF, NHIF, and the proposed housing levy. The same government that once promised opportunity was now chipping away at his net income.
And then came the news: HELB loan recovery would be intensified money he had long accepted as a necessary debt for his education was now haunting his payslips.
Financial Discipline? Easier Said Than Done
Kevin wants to save. He really does. But how do you put money aside when you’re budgeting between rent, transport, food, data bundles (a basic need, honestly), and still have the audacity to want to live a little?
He’s tried budgeting apps, setting M-Shwari limits, and even joined a chama with friends. Still, emergencies crop up sick parents, broken laptops, black tax and the savings vanish.
The Guilt of Enjoying Life
“Bro, you’re broke why are you at Blankets & Wine?” That guilt-trip is real. But Kevin knows that if he doesn’t take time to recharge, burnout will come knocking. Fun shouldn’t be a crime. Still, balancing fun and finances is a constant tightrope walk.
A Simple Saving Plan That Works
Kevin recently adopted the 50/30/20 rule:
- 50% for needs (rent, bills, food)
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30% for wants (leisure, outings)
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20% for savings and debt
It’s not perfect some months are rough but it helps him track his flow. He also opened a locked savings account and set auto-deposit for a weekly amount of 1000. This helped him build an emergency fund without even noticing it.
He’s also started reading up on financial literacy, watching YouTube videos, following budget-friendly creators, and attending trainings this helped him understand financial discipline more.
Reclaiming Control
For Kevin, financial literacy isn’t about being rich it’s about being intentional. Knowing where his money goes, questioning every deduction, staying politically aware, and finding strength in the community.
He’s part of a growing youth wave one that is not only protesting exploitative policies but also learning, sharing resources, and rebuilding trust in themselves.
In a country where inflation bites harder than hope, Kevin is still standing. His story mirrors thousands of others who are tired but not defeated. Financial literacy isn’t just about money it’s about survival, resilience, and rewriting the Kenyan dream.
