Written by Joyce Nzomo
As the Cs Treasury John Mbadi prepares to unveil the 2025/2026 national budget in the National Assembly today, many Kenyans on the ground are tuning in; not with hope, but with hardened expectations and deep concern, following last year’s chaotic protests against proposed tax hikes, the public’s expectations are shaped by a desire for economic relief, transparency, and sustainable growth.
So I hit the streets of Juja to find out what Kenyans expect today. The majority of those interviewed expressed the following; a significant reduction in the cost of living.
From food to transport to basic household goods, citizens across various backgrounds say that the current prices are unsustainable and they hope the government will take bold measures to ease the financial burden on ordinary households.
A boda boda rider from Juja, says things have been tight. He explains how fuel prices have become his daily enemy and he hopes the government will reduce fuel prices.
He hoped that in the event of reduction of prices, the prices will remain the same and not hike a few months later.
A mama mboga from Juja market hopes that tax will be reduced so that life maybe comfortable for the normal citizen.
She complained of the costly education system and failure of the government to allocate enough funds to enable the release of KEPSEA Examination which is yet to be released because of lack of funds.
While many shared their hopes, a significant number of citizens admitted to having little or no expectations from the budget.
They expressed frustration, saying that year after year, promises are made but never fulfilled.
“We’ve heard it all before—reducing prices, creating jobs—but nothing ever changes,” one respondent said.
Unemployed youth no longer look forward to Budget Day. Despite repeated promises over the years about job creation and youth empowerment programs, they feel left behind.
“We’re always told there will be opportunities for us, but nothing ever comes,” said Vincent a graduate who has been jobless for over two years.
For many, the budget has become a symbol of broken promises, and without tangible action, their hope continues to fade.
Most wish for the Genz to go back to the street if the budget is not favourable.
