It started with a simple prompt on X, and Kenyans responded, proving they did not come to play.
After being asked to share what is in their wallets, one by one, netizens began sharing screenshots of their savings and current account balances, and let’s just say, the phrase “broke nation” didn’t apply to everyone. And the classic Kenyan phase, ‘Kuna watu wako na pesa, ni wewe tuu unateseka’ appears to have just gained more credence.
Some balances casually flashed Sh3 million, Sh2 million, Sh1 million. Others humbly boasted hundreds of thousands.
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And then there were the rest of us, staring at our Sh 214.65, others zero with depleted Fuiza overdrafts, and we don’t even know if we will have the financial muscle to repay. All we could say is “Mungu tusaide tutoke block.”
But behind the banter and screenshots, the thread turned into something deeper—a wake-up call. While a few gloated and others joked, many users said the reveal had challenged them to start saving more seriously and rethink how they handle money.
The screenshots brought out a clear contrast between different financial realities in Kenya, yet somehow, they united everyone around one uncomfortable truth: “You really need toa be ready for a rainy day.”
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In light of this online buzz, Abojani Investments, a personal finance platform insists that saving and investing is the real foundation of financial security:
“Investing is great, but only after you’ve saved enough for short-term needs,” they noted. “Start by saving, make sure you have adequate health insurance, and then invest with confidence knowing your foundation is secure.”
They didn’t stop there.
Side hustles or side expenses?
With the current craze for saving and investing, Abojani warns about rushing into entrepreneurship without a plan.
“Many side hustles become side expenses,” they said. “Without structure—like a clear budget, a separate account, records of sales and expenses—you’re just funding an emotional project.”
The real income is what you keep
The firm also dropped a truth bomb about salary realities in Nairobi:
“50K salary is not small, but after rent, transport, food, and the occasional plan, many are left with less than 15k.” That, they say, is your real income, the amount you actually live on and can use to build a future.
Budgeting on a tight income
And what about that famous budgeting rule—50/30/20? Apparently, it’s not built for Nairobi life.
Abojani explained:
“When your rent alone is eating 60%, the old rules don’t apply.”
But budgeting still matters. Even saving 5% consistently is better than waiting on a miracle from your favorite betting app.
Track every shilling
Abojani encouraged Kenyans to track their money closely, the way some people would track their exes, especially after learning they have new base.
“Money leaks in small ways. Track every shilling for just 30 days, and you’ll be shocked,” ABojani said, urging people to automate their in case they find it difficult to manually top up their savings accounts.
Bonus nuggets from Abojani: Unspoken money rules
They also shared several “unspoken money rules” Kenyans should live by. Here are a few crowd favorites:
Spending & saving
Always spend much less than you earn.
Focus on developing your own financial goals.
Reduce periodic expenditure, exercise patience and restraint.
Even saving 5% of your income consistently is better than saving nothing.
Track every shilling for 30 days, you’ll be shocked where your money goes.
Save before you spend. Build a financial cushion first.
KSh 100 a week is still a start—the amount matters less than consistency.
Automate your savings (e.g., through a standing order to a money market fund).
Budgeting & accountability
A budget is everything—treat your personal life like a business.
That 50/30/20 rule? Doesn’t always work in Nairobi. Adjust it to your reality.
Understand that your real income is what’s left after expenses, not your gross salary.
Budget even when money is tight—it helps you build discipline and direction.
Many of us don’t have money problems; we have tracking problems.
Investing & entrepreneurship
Never invest money in a project you don’t understand or have passion for.
Don’t be in a hurry to invest, research first.
If you must take on debt, watch the interest rates closely.
Build your investing muscle with MMFs or SACCO shares to learn patience and discipline.
Entrepreneurship needs structure: budget, separate accounts, record-keeping.
Avoid emotional projects disguised as side hustles, they become side expenses.
Relationships & lifestyle
Be honest about your finances with your spouse or partner.
Emergencies are a normal aspect of life, be ready for them.
Do not live a flashy lifestyle, live within your means.
Don’t be materialistic, status won’t save your future.
Never make impulsive financial decisions.
Don’t compare yourself to others; money and emotions don’t mix well.
