InfoTrak https://www.infotrakresearch.com The leading Market & Social research firm in Africa Tue, 28 Jul 2026 10:30:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.10 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/faviconn.png InfoTrak https://www.infotrakresearch.com 32 32 248915407 Infotrak Voice Of The People Poll July 2026 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/2743-2/ https://www.infotrakresearch.com/2743-2/#respond Mon, 13 Jul 2026 12:27:33 +0000 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/?p=2743
Infotrak Voice of the People Poll — Citizen views, national mood, and public priorities. June 2026

THE COUNTRY IS SPEAKING. OUR TASK IS TO LISTEN.

Foreword

▾

This Voice of the People Poll captures where public opinion stands now across five areas: political parties and alliances, support for the Broad-Based Government, presidential preference, running-mate options and opposition leadership.

It is not a prediction. It is not an endorsement. It is not a campaign document.

It is a nationally representative snapshot based on 3,000 adults drawn from all 47 counties.

A frequent question is how 3,000 respondents can speak for more than 26 million adult Kenyans. The answer lies not simply in the size of the sample, but in how it is selected.

“You don’t have to drink the whole pot of soup to know if salt is enough. Stir well and sip/sample correctly.

A census counts everyone. A poll estimates opinion.

Some findings will be welcomed. Others will be challenged. That is the nature of public opinion. We welcome robust debate, provided it is informed, factual and respectful of the evidence.

Our responsibility is not to make the results comfortable. It is to make them accurate.

“The numbers are not a verdict. They are feedback.”

The real question is not whether everyone likes what the mirror shows. It is what they choose to do after seeing it.

WHY 3,000 MATTERS

It’s not about size. It’s about science.

Adults3,000
Counties47
Adult Kenyans Represented26M+

Scientifically selected. Nationally representative. Professionally weighted.

HOW TO READ THE FINDINGS

1

A lead is not a victory.
2

Awareness is not approval.
3

Popularity does not automatically transfer votes.
4

Undecided voters are not one bloc.
5

Today’s field may not be the final field.

A POLL IS A MIRROR

✓ It does not create the image, flatter the subject or choose what to reveal.

✓ It reflects what is there at that moment.

The real question is not whether everyone likes what the mirror shows. It is what they choose to do after seeing it.

Public opinion is not a verdict. It is feedback — and wise leadership listens.

KENYA’S POLITICAL MAP IS BECOMING CLEARER, BUT THE CONTEST REMAINS OPEN

Political Landscape — An incumbent with a clear lead. A fragmented opposition. A sizeable non-aligned electorate.

▾
32%President Ruto currently leads presidential preference.
22% vs 21%UDA and ODM are nearly level in party preference.
33% vs 37%Support vs oppose the Broad-Based Government.
34%Kindiki records the highest national preference among running-mate options.
27% vs 26%Kalonzo and Matiang’i are virtually tied as preferred opposition candidates.

WHAT THE DATA SHOWS

1

A fluid and competitive environment
Political leaders are realigning, alliances are being tested, and new formations are seeking national relevance. The political environment is active, but far from settled.
2

Incumbent advantage, not inevitability
President William Ruto currently leads at 32%, giving him a clear advantage over individual challengers. But his support remains below majority level, and the race is still open.
3

Fragmentation defines the field
Opposition preference is divided among several figures. Party attachment is weak, with 22% not close to any party and 28% supporting no formation. A sizeable non-aligned electorate will be decisive.
INSIGHT

The central feature of Kenya’s current political environment is not consolidation. It is an open contest shaped by incumbent advantage, a fragmented opposition, regionally differentiated preferences and a sizeable non-aligned electorate.

BOTTOM LINE

The path to August 2027 will depend on which political actors can convert visibility into trust, build credible coalitions, demonstrate competence and persuade voters who have not yet made a firm choice.

THE POLL EXAMINED FIVE CONNECTED DIMENSIONS OF KENYA’S EVOLVING POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT

Areas Covered

▾
1
BROAD-BASED GOVERNMENT
First, it measured public awareness and support for the Broad-Based Government, including the reasons citizens either support or oppose the arrangement.
2
PARTIES & EMERGING FORMATIONS
Second, it assessed attachment to political parties and emerging political formations, showing where current loyalties are concentrated and where political affiliation remains weak.
3
THE PRESIDENTIAL CONTEST
Third, it examined the presidential contest, including current voting preferences, regional and demographic patterns, changes over time and perceptions of who is most likely to win the 2027 election.
4
THE RUNNING-MATE QUESTION
Fourth, it explored the running-mate question, both nationally and in relation to the political figures perceived as most capable of strengthening President William Ruto’s position in Mt Kenya, Nyanza, Western Kenya and the Coast.
5
THE OPPOSITION LEADERSHIP CONTEST
Finally, it assessed the leadership contest within the opposition, including preferred presidential candidates and the opposition ticket combinations considered most attractive to the electorate.

Together, these findings offer a broad picture of the political choices, uncertainties and strategic considerations that are likely to shape the next phase of the electoral cycle.

POLL METHODOLOGY

▾
KEY TAKEOUT

Nationally representative survey of 3,000 adults across all 47 counties, conducted 22nd–26th June 2026 using mixed-mode data collection (CAPI and CATI), with a ±1.79% margin of error at 95% confidence and a 99% response rate.

SPONSOR
Sponsored and financed by Infotrak Research & Consulting Ltd
FIELDWORK DATES
22nd–26th June 2026
SAMPLE
3,000 adults aged 18+
INTERVIEW METHOD
Mixed mode using CAPI and CATI to ensure all respondents are given equal chance to participate
MARGIN OF ERROR
±1.79% at 95% confidence
RESPONSE RATE
99%
COVERAGE
All 47 counties and 8 regions
DATA ANALYSIS
SPSS 27

METHODOLOGY NOTES

Sample allocation used Probability Proportional to Size (PPS) based on the 2019 Kenya Population and Housing Census.
Where achieved interviews differed slightly from target proportions, data was weighted to correct over- or under-sampling.
Mixed-mode interviewing improved inclusion and participation across respondent groups.
National coverage across all 47 counties ensured broad representativeness.
Detailed methodological tables can appear in the appendix.

SAMPLE DISTRIBUTION & RESPONDENT DEMOGRAPHICS

▾
KEY TAKEOUT

The nationally representative sample of 3,000 adults was proportionately allocated across Kenya’s 8 regions and reflects a broadly balanced demographic profile by gender, age, education, employment and religion.

SAMPLE DISTRIBUTION

Region Adult Population (Millions) Regional Proportions Sample Achieved per Region
Coast 2.3 9% 272
North Eastern 1.0 4% 119
Eastern 3.9 15% 451
Central 3.4 13% 401
Rift Valley 6.6 26% 767
Western 2.5 10% 288
Nyanza 3.2 12% 368
Nairobi City 2.9 11% 334
TOTAL 25.8 100% 3000

The sample was proportionately spread across all the 47 counties of Kenya.

RESPONDENT DEMOGRAPHICS

Gender

Male 54%Female 46%
Age
18 – 26 years23%
27 – 35 years20%
36 – 45 years28%
46 – 55 years17%
Over 55 years11%
Employment
Formally employed10%
Casually employed23%
Self-employed39%
Unemployed25%
Retired3%
Refused to answer0.1%
Level of Education
Primary16%
Secondary45%
Tertiary College26%
University/Post-graduate13%
None1%
Religion
Catholic23%
Protestant69%
Muslim7%
None1%

n = 3000

BROADBASED GOVERNMENT

AWARENESS & SUPPORT

AWARENESS OF THE BROAD-BASED GOVERNMENT

▾
KEY TAKEOUT

Awareness of the Broad-Based Government is high at 79%, Awareness is strongest among 18–26 year olds (86%), men (84%) and Nairobi residents (84%), and remains above 70% across all regions and demographic groups. Nationally, 16% say they are unaware, while 6% are not sure.

AWARENESS OVERALL & BY REGION

79%
YesNoNot sure
72%
22%
5%
Coast
74%
18%
8%
North Eastern
77%
17%
6%
Eastern
77%
16%
7%
Central
81%
15%
4%
Rift Valley
77%
19%
4%
Western
79%
13%
8%
Nyanza
84%
12%
4%
Nairobi
79%
16%
6%
Overall

BY GENDER & AGE

YesNoNot sure
72%
20%
8%
Female
84%
12%
4%
Male
86%
9%
5%
18 – 26 years
76%
17%
7%
27 – 35 years
75%
19%
5%
36 – 45 years
78%
16%
6%
46 – 55 years
77%
19%
5%
Over 55 years
79%
16%
6%
Overall
?Have you heard about the idea/issue of the broad-based government in Kenya? (I.e. cooperation between Kenya Kwanza and ODM)n = 3000

LEVEL OF SUPPORT FOR BROAD-BASED GOVERNMENT

▾
KEY TAKEOUT

Only 33% of Kenyans support the broad-based government, while 37% oppose it. A further 27% neither support nor oppose, and 3% are not sure.

LEVEL OF SUPPORT: BY REGION (%)

Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Overall
Support 28% 48% 27% 19% 45% 33% 44% 24% 33%
Neither support nor oppose 32% 32% 25% 36% 26% 25% 24% 23% 27%
Oppose 36% 16% 46% 42% 26% 39% 29% 50% 37%
Not sure/Don’t Know 4% 4% 2% 3% 3% 3% 3% 3% 3%

LEVEL OF SUPPORT: BY GENDER & AGE (%)

Female Male 18–26 27–35 36–45 46–55 Over 55 Overall
Support 29% 36% 38% 32% 30% 32% 34% 33%
Neither support nor oppose 33% 22% 18% 29% 31% 29% 30% 27%
Oppose 34% 39% 42% 35% 36% 35% 33% 37%
Not sure/Don’t Know 4% 3% 2% 4% 3% 4% 3% 3%

REASONS FOR SUPPORT

Peace, political stability & reduced tension35%
National unity & cohesion28%
Development/service delivery24%
Inclusivity & equitable distribution across regions/communities7%
Good leadership/cooperation among leaders & parties5%
Government accountability/checks & balances1%

n = 906

REASONS FOR OPPOSITION

Non/limited development or poor government performance40%
Self-serving/personal gain for politicians19%
Corruption16%
Weakens opposition/reduces accountability11%
Unclear agenda for union7%
Tribalism/favoritism/unequal treatment4%
Increased government cost/taxpayer burden2%

n = 1007

?From what you know or may have heard, to what extent do you support or oppose a broad-based government that brings together leaders from different political sides to work together?n = 2356

BROAD-BASED GOVERNMENT: KEY TAKE OUTS

▾
KEY TAKEOUT

Awareness is high (79%), but public opinion is divided:
33% support, 37% oppose, 27% are neutral, and 3% are unsure.

AWARENESS & OVERALL SENTIMENT

79%
AWARENESS
33%
Support
27%
Neither support nor oppose
37%
Oppose
3%
Not sure/Don’t know

Awareness n = 3000 | Support question n = 2356

SUPPORT BY REGION

28%
Coast
48%
North Eastern
27%
Eastern
19%
Central
45%
Rift Valley
33%
Western
44%
Nyanza
24%
Nairobi

HIGHEST SUPPORT: North Eastern (48%), Rift Valley (45%), Nyanza (44%)

LOWEST SUPPORT: Central (19%), Nairobi (24%)

TOP 3 REASONS FOR SUPPORT (Base: Supporters n = 906)

Peace, political stability & reduced tension35%
National unity & cohesion28%
Development/service delivery24%

TOP 3 REASONS FOR OPPOSITION (Base: Opponents n = 1007)

Non/limited development or poor government performance40%
Self-serving/personal gain for politicians19%
Corruption16%

KEY TAKE OUTS

1

Awareness is high, but support is not a majority position.
2

Support is strongest in North Eastern, Rift Valley and Nyanza.
3

Central and Nairobi are the coolest toward the arrangement.
4

Supporters cite peace and unity; opponents judge it through performance and corruption.

Source: Infotrak Voice of the People Poll, July 2026

2027 PRESIDENTIAL RACE

ASPIRANT POPULARITY

POPULARITY OF PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANTS

▾
KEY TAKEOUT

William Ruto leads at 32%. Kalonzo Musyoka follows at 13%, while Edwin Sifuna and Dr. Fred Matiang’i are tied at 12%. Undecided voters remain significant at 18%.

POPULARITY OF PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANTS

William Ruto32%
Kalonzo Musyoka13%
3=Edwin Sifuna12%
3=Dr. Fred Matiang’i12%
Rigathi Gachagua4%
Babu Owino3%
8=David Maraga2%
8=Martha Karua1%
8=Others1%
Others (1%) includes:
George Natembeya, Eugene Wamalwa, Ndindi Nyoro, Okiya Omtatah, Ekuru Aokot, George Wajackoyah, Jimmy Wanjigi.
 Prefer not to say3%
 Undecided18%
WILLIAM RUTO

WILLIAM RUTO
32%
Kalonzo Musyoka

Kalonzo Musyoka
13%
Edwin Sifuna

Edwin Sifuna
12%
Dr. Fred Matiang'i

Dr. Fred Matiang’i
12%
Rigathi Gachagua

Rigathi Gachagua
4%
Babu Owino

Babu Owino
3%
David Maraga

David Maraga
2%
Martha Karua

Martha Karua
1%
?If a presidential election was held today, who would you most likely vote for if that person was a candidate?n = 3000

POPULARITY OF PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANTS: BY REGION

▾

PERCENTAGE SUPPORT BY REGION (%)

RANK ASPIRANT OVERALL Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi OVERALL
1 William Ruto 32% 33% 59% 19% 12% 46% 35% 40% 19% 32%
2 Kalonzo Musyoka 13% 9% 6% 40% 13% 9% 4% 4% 9% 13%
3= Edwin Sifuna 12% 13% 8% 7% 11% 12% 26% 10% 14% 12%
3= Fred Matiang’i 12% 9% 6% 10% 19% 9% 8% 17% 16% 12%
5 Rigathi Gachagua 4% – 4% 3% 12% 3% 1% 1% 3% 4%
6 Babu Owino 3% 4% 3% 2% 1% 2% 1% 9% 6% 3%
7 David Maraga 2% 4% 2% 1% 1% 1% 1% 2% 3% 2%
8= Martha Karua 1% 1% – 0.2% 2% 1% 0.3% 1% – 1%
8= Others* 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1%
Prefer not to say 3% 1% – 2% 2% 3% 3% 5% 5% 3%
Undecided 18% 24% 13% 13% 26% 14% 19% 11% 24% 18%

* Others (1%) include: George Natembeya, Eugene Wamalwa, Ndindi Nyoro, Okiya Omtatah, Ekuru Aokot, George Wajackoyah and Jimmy Wanjigi

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1

William Ruto leads overall at 32%, with strongest regional support in North Eastern (59%), Rift Valley (46%) and Nyanza (40%).
2

Kalonzo Musyoka’s strongest showing is in Eastern (40%), where he leads the field.
3

Central remains competitive: no aspirant reaches 20%, while undecided is highest at 26%.
4

Western shows a two-horse pattern between Ruto (35%) and Edwin Sifuna (26%), while Nairobi remains fluid, with 24% undecided.
?If a presidential election was held today, who would you most likely vote for if that person was a candidate?n = 3000

POPULARITY OF PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANTS: BY GENDER & AGE

▾

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

President William Ruto leads across both genders and all age groups, with his strongest showing among 46–55 year olds (38%) and among men (34%).
2

Kalonzo Musyoka is the steadiest challenger, polling 13% among both women and men and peaking at 16% among voters aged over 55.
3

Edwin Sifuna shows the strongest youth appeal at 20% among 18–26 year olds, while Fred Matiang’i peaks at 14% among 36–45 year olds.
4

Undecided voters remain significant among women (20% vs 15% men) and older cohorts—24% among over 55s and 23% among 46–55s—but are only 4% among 18–26 year olds.

BY GENDER

Female Male Overall
President William Ruto 30% 34% 32%
Kalonzo Musyoka 13% 13% 13%
Edwin Sifuna 11% 13% 12%
Dr. Fred Matiang’i 10% 13% 12%
Rigathi Gachagua 4% 3% 4%
Babu Owino 3% 3% 3%
David Maraga 2% 2% 2%
Martha Karua 1% 0.4% 1%
Others 1% 1% 1%
Prefer not to say 4% 2% 3%
Undecided 20% 15% 18%

BY AGE

18–26 years 27–35 years 36–45 years 46–55 years Over 55 years Overall
President William Ruto 28% 31% 32% 38% 33% 32%
Kalonzo Musyoka 13% 13% 13% 11% 16% 13%
Edwin Sifuna 20% 14% 10% 9% 5% 12%
Dr. Fred Matiang’i 12% 10% 14% 12% 11% 12%
Rigathi Gachagua 6% 2% 4% 2% 3% 4%
Babu Owino 6% 3% 3% 3% 2% 3%
David Maraga 1% 4% 2% 1% 0.3% 2%
Martha Karua 1% 0.3% 1% 0.2% 1% 1%
Others 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1%
Prefer not to say 7% 1% 2% 1% 3% 3%
Undecided 4% 21% 20% 23% 24% 18%
?If a presidential election was held today, who would you most likely vote for if that person was a candidate?n = 3000

PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANTS: SUPPORT BY POLITICAL PARTY PREFERENCE

▾

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

UDA supporters back President William Ruto overwhelmingly at 87%, making it his clearest party stronghold.
2

Wiper supporters are firmly behind Kalonzo Musyoka at 89%, the strongest non-Ruto party base in the poll.
3

Jubilee Party supporters lean strongly to Fred Matiang’i at 60%, while DCP is more fragmented, led by Rigathi Gachagua at 24%, with Kalonzo Musyoka and Fred Matiang’i tied at 20%.
4

Among voters with no party preference, the race is fluid: 34% are undecided, while among named aspirants President William Ruto and Fred Matiang’i jointly lead at 14%, ahead of Edwin Sifuna at 13%.
UDA
President William Ruto
87%
Edwin SifunaNone
All other responses13%
ODM
President William Ruto
38%
Edwin Sifuna23%
All other responses39%
DCP
Rigathi Gachagua
24%
Kalonzo Musyoka20%
Fred Matiang’i20%
Edwin Sifuna13%
All other responses23%
WIPER
Kalonzo Musyoka
89%
All other responses11%
JUBILEE PARTY
Fred Matiang’i
60%
Edwin Sifuna12%
President William Ruto11%
All other responses17%
NONE / NO PARTY PREFERENCE
Undecided
34%
President William Ruto14%
Fred Matiang’i14%
Edwin Sifuna13%
All other responses25%
?If a presidential election was held today, who would you most likely vote for if that person was a candidate?n = 3000

PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANTS: SUPPORT BY POLITICAL PARTY PREFERENCE

▾

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

Ruto dominates UDA supporters at 87% and also leads among ODM supporters at 38%.
2

Kalonzo is Wiper’s overwhelming choice at 89%, giving him the clearest party-based stronghold.
3

Jubilee supporters favour Fred Matiang’i at 60%, while DCP voters are split — Rigathi leads at 24%, ahead of Kalonzo and Matiang’i at 20% each.
4

Among respondents with no party preference, the field remains fluid: Undecided leads at 34%, while Ruto tops named aspirants at 14%.
UDA ODM DCP WIPER JUBILEE PARTY None Overall
President William Ruto 87% 38% 6% 1% 11% 14% 32%
Kalonzo Musyoka 2% 8% 20% 89% 4% 10% 13%
Edwin Sifuna 2% 23% 13% 4% 12% 13% 12%
Dr. Fred Matiang’i 1% 7% 20% 3% 60% 14% 12%
Rigathi Gachagua 0.3% 2% 24% – 2% 2% 4%
Babu Owino 1% 6% 2% 1% 1% 4% 3%
David Maraga – 3% 1% – 3% 2% 2%
Martha Karua – 0.4% – – 2% 1% 1%
Others 0.2% 1% 2% – 1% 1% 1%
Prefer not to say 1% 1% 2% 1% 1% 5% 3%
Undecided 6% 10% 11% 1% 4% 34% 18%
?If a presidential election was held today, who would you most likely vote for if that person was a candidate?n = 3000

POPULARITY OF PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANTS – TREND ANALYSIS

JULY 2026

▾

n = 3000

PRESIDENTIAL POPULARITY TREND OVER TIME

AUGUST 2025DECEMBER 2025JUNE 2026William Ruto21%28%32%Fred Matiang’i15%13%12%Kalonzo Musyoka8%12%13%Edwin Sifuna0.2%12%—David Maraga6%2%2%Rigathi Gachagua4%5%4%Babu Owino3%7%3%Martha Karua1%2%1%Others*1%2.9%1%Refused to say/Undecided36%29%20%

William RutoFred Matiang’iKalonzo MusyokaEdwin SifunaDavid MaragaRigathi GachaguaBabu OwinoMartha KaruaOthers*Refused to say/Undecided

*December 2025 Others combines Gladys Wanga (1%), George Natembeya (1%), Ndindi Nyoro (0.5%), George Wajackoyah (0.2%) and Edwin Sifuna (0.2%).

A) BIGGEST GAINERS SINCE AUGUST 2025
William Ruto+11 pp
Kalonzo Musyoka+5 pp
Rigathi Gachagua0 pp
Babu Owino0 pp
Martha Karua0 pp
Others*0 pp
B) DECLINERS SINCE AUGUST 2025
Fred Matiang’i-3 pp
David Maraga-4 pp
Refused / Undecided-16 pp
C) LATE EMERGING IN JUNE 2026
Edwin Sifuna12% in June, up from 0.2% in December 2025

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

William Ruto has consolidated his front-runner status, rising from 21% in August 2025 to 28% in December 2025 and 32% in June 2026 — a net gain of 11 percentage points.
2

Kalonzo Musyoka has strengthened steadily, moving from 8% to 12% to 13%, making him the closest named challenger in the latest wave.
3

Fred Matiang’i has softened from 15% to 12%, while Edwin Sifuna emerges sharply in June at 12% after negligible visibility in December 2025.
4

The Refused/Undecided bloc has narrowed markedly from 36% to 29% to 20%, suggesting the race is becoming more defined as more voters make up their minds.
?If a presidential election was held today, who would you most likely vote for if that person was a candidate?

Source: Infotrak Voice of the People Poll, July 2026  |  pp = percentage points

PRESIDENTIAL POPULARITY: KEY TAKEOUTS

JULY 2026

▾

n = 3000

Ruto leads at 32%, but the race beneath him remains fragmented — Kalonzo Musyoka 13% Edwin Sifuna 12% Dr. Fred Matiang’i 12% while 20% remain undecided or refused to answer.

1
Ruto is the clear front-runner
32%
overall
21%in August 2025+11ppincrease

He has widened his lead but remains below majority territory.

2
No challenger has consolidated the field
13% Kalonzo Musyoka
12% Edwin Sifuna
12% Dr. Fred Matiang’i

The opposition vote is split among several contenders, with no single national alternative yet emerging.

3
Regional strength remains the core fault line
North Eastern Ruto 59%
Rift Valley Ruto 46%
Nyanza Ruto 40%
Eastern Kalonzo 40%
Western Ruto 35% | Sifuna 26%
Central Ruto 12% | Kalonzo 13%
Sifuna 11% | Matiang’i 19%
Nairobi Ruto 19% | Kalonzo 9%
Sifuna 14%
4
Different challengers appeal to different constituencies
Ruto strongest among ages 46–55 at 38% and men at 34%.
Sifuna strongest among ages 18–26 at 20%.
Kalonzo peaks at 16% among over-55s.
Matiang’i peaks at 14% among ages 36–45.

Support bases differ by age and gender rather than consolidated nationally.

5
One in five voters is still movable
36%→20%

August 2025   June 2026
Undecided/refused declined from 36% in August 2025 to 20% in June 2026.

Undecided is highest in Central (26%) and Nairobi (24%).

The presidential race is taking shape around a clear front-runner, a fragmented challenger field, and a decisive remaining bloc of persuadable voters.

Source: Infotrak Voice of the People Poll, July 2026  |  pp = percentage points

2027 BROADBASE PRESIDENTIAL RUNNING MATE OPTIONS

BEST CHOICE OVERALL & BEST CHOICE TO HELP RUTO IN KEY REGIONS

PREFERRED RUNNING MATE FOR PRESIDENT RUTO IN THE BROAD-BASED GOVERNMENT

▾
KEY TAKEOUT

Public opinion is split: 37% are unsure, while Prof. Kithure Kindiki emerges as the clear preferred running mate at 34%, far ahead of Gladys Wanga at 11%. All other named contenders remain in single digits.

PREFERRED RUNNING MATE (RANKED)

 Prof. Kithure Kindiki34%
 Gladys Wanga11%
 Oburu Oginga5%
 Hassan Joho4%
 Anne Waiguru3%
 Musalia Mudavadi2%
 Moses Wetangula2%
 Simba Arati1%
 Others0.4%
Others (0.4%):
• John Mbadi
• Aden Duale
 Not Sure/Don’t Know37%
Prof. Kithure Kindiki

Prof. Kithure Kindiki
34%
Gladys Wanga

Gladys Wanga
11%
Oburu Oginga

Oburu Oginga
5%
Hassan Joho

Hassan Joho
4%
Anne Waiguru

Anne Waiguru
3%
Musalia Mudavadi

Musalia Mudavadi
2%
Moses Wetangula

Moses Wetangula
2%
Simba Arati

Simba Arati
1%

Kindiki is the only named contender above 20%, giving him a commanding lead.

Gladys Wanga ranks a distant second at 11%.

Uncertainty remains high: 37% are not sure, exceeding support for any individual option.

?In your opinion, who would be the best running mate for President William Ruto in the Broad-Based Government?n = 3000

PREFERRED RUNNING MATE FOR PRESIDENT RUTO IN THE BROAD-BASED GOVERNMENT

Regional, Gender & Age Breakdown

▾

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

Prof. Kithure Kindiki is the clear overall frontrunner at 34%, leading both women and men equally at 34% and topping every age cohort.
2

Gladys Wanga is the strongest alternative at 11% overall, with her strongest base in Nyanza (21%) and among 18–26 year olds (19%).
3

Regional support for Kindiki is strongest in North Eastern (44%), Rift Valley (43%) and Eastern (39%), but softer in Central (22%) and Coast (23%).
4

Uncertainty remains high: “Not Sure/Don’t Know” stands at 37% overall, peaking in Nairobi (48%), Central (46%), Coast (45%) and among those over 55 (47%).
Prof. Kithure Kindiki34%
Gladys Wanga11%
Oburu Oginga5%
Hassan Joho4%
Not Sure/Don’t Know37%

BY REGION

Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Overall
Prof. Kithure Kindiki 23% 44% 39% 22% 43% 36% 28% 29% 34%
Gladys Wanga 8% 7% 9% 9% 13% 10% 21% 8% 11%
Oburu Oginga 6% 8% 6% 5% 5% 1% 6% 6% 5%
Hassan Joho 11% 9% 3% 4% 2% 2% 5% 3% 4%
Not Sure/Don’t Know 45% 23% 35% 46% 29% 41% 32% 48% 37%

BY GENDER & AGE

Female Male 18–26 years 27–35 years 36–45 years 46–55 years Over 55 years Overall
Prof. Kithure Kindiki 34% 34% 31% 33% 36% 37% 32% 34%
Gladys Wanga 11% 12% 19% 9% 10% 8% 8% 11%
Oburu Oginga 4% 6% 12% 4% 3% 2% 3% 5%
Hassan Joho 3% 5% 8% 4% 2% 2% 2% 4%
Not Sure/Don’t Know 40% 34% 19% 42% 42% 42% 47% 37%

Other named options (overall): Anne Waiguru 3%, Musalia Mudavadi 2%, Moses Wetang’ula 2%, Simba Arati 1%, Others 0.4%.

?In your opinion, who would be the best running mate for President William Ruto in the Broad-based Formation (Kenya Kwanza + ODM Faction)n = 3000

RUNNING MATES MOST LIKELY TO STRENGTHEN PRESIDENT RUTO’S SUPPORT: REGIONAL SNAPSHOT

▾
MT. KENYA
41%
Prof. Kithure Kindiki
LEADING
14%Anne Waiguru
33%NOT SURE/
DON’T KNOW
NYANZA
35%
Gladys Wanga
LEADING
25%Oburu Oginga
31%NOT SURE/
DON’T KNOW
WESTERN
28%
Musalia Mudavadi
LEADING
22%Moses Wetang’ula
35%NOT SURE/
DON’T KNOW
COAST
60%
Hassan Joho
LEADING
4%Prof. Kithure Kindiki
31%NOT SURE/
DON’T KNOW

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

Coast shows the clearest preference: Hassan Joho dominates at 60%, far ahead of any other option.
2

Mt. Kenya strongly favors Kithure Kindiki at 41%, with Anne Waiguru a distant second at 14%.
3

Nyanza and Western are more competitive: Gladys Wanga leads in Nyanza (35%) while Musalia Mudavadi leads in Western (28%).
4

High Not Sure levels in Mt. Kenya (33%), Nyanza (31%), Western (35%) and Coast (31%) suggest the running-mate conversation is still fluid despite clear front-runners.

RUNNING MATE LIKELY TO STRENGTHEN PRESIDENT RUTO’S SUPPORT: REGIONAL BREAKDOWN

▾

MT. KENYA

Prof. Kithure Kindiki41%
Not Sure/Don’t Know33%
Anne Waiguru14%
Ndindi Nyoro5%
Gladys Wanga2%
Others2%
Musalia Mudavadi1%
Oburu Oginga1%
Hassan Joho1%
Kimani Ichungwah1%
Others include:
Moses Wetangula, Simba Arati, Irungu Kang’ata, Martha Karua, Peter Kenneth.

NYANZA

Gladys Wanga35%
Not Sure/Don’t Know31%
Oburu Oginga25%
Prof. Kithure Kindiki4%
Simba Arati1%
Musalia Mudavadi1%
Hassan Joho1%
Moses Wetangula1%
John Mbadi1%
Others1%
Others include:
Anne Waiguru, Raymond Omollo, Winnie Odinga.

WESTERN

Not Sure/Don’t Know35%
Musalia Mudavadi28%
Moses Wetangula22%
Prof. Kithure Kindiki4%
Simba Arati3%
George Natembeya2%
Gladys Wanga2%
Oburu Oginga2%
Hassan Joho1%
Wycliffe Oparanya1%
Anne Waiguru1%

COAST

Hassan Joho60%
Not Sure/Don’t Know31%
Prof. Kithure Kindiki4%
Others2%
Oburu Oginga1%
Governor Gladys Wanga1%
Mohamed Ali (Jicho Pevu)1%
Musalia Mudavadi1%
Simba Arati1%
Others include:
Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir, Moses Wetangula, Anne Waiguru, Amason Kingi, Salim Mvurya, Aisha Jumwa.

n = 3000

RUNNING MATE INSIGHTS: SUMMARY

Preferred running mate for President Ruto in the Broad-Based Government

▾
KEY TAKEOUT

A large share of respondents remain unsure (37%), but among named options Prof. Kithure Kindiki is the clear preferred running mate at 34%, well ahead of Gladys Wanga at 11%.

34%Prof. Kithure Kindiki — overall preferred running mate
11%Gladys Wanga — strongest alternative
5%Oburu Oginga
4%Hassan Joho
37%Not Sure / Don’t Know — high uncertainty

Other named options (overall): Anne Waiguru 3%  |  Musalia Mudavadi 2%  |  Moses Wetang’ula 2%  |  Simba Arati 1%  |  Others 0.4%.

WHAT THE DATA SAYS

1

Kindiki leads nationally and is the only named option above 20%. He leads both women and men at 34% and tops every age cohort.
2

Gladys Wanga is the strongest alternative overall at 11%, with her best performance in Nyanza (21%) and among 18–26 year olds (19%).
3

Regional strengthening profiles differ: Kindiki leads in Mt. Kenya (41%), Wanga in Nyanza (35%), Mudavadi in Western (28%), and Joho dominates the Coast (60%).
4

Uncertainty remains high: 37% are unsure overall, rising to 48% in Nairobi, 46% in Central, 45% on the Coast, and 47% among those aged over 55.

REGIONAL STRENGTHENING SNAPSHOT

MT. KENYA
41%
Prof. Kithure Kindiki
LEADING
14%Anne Waiguru
33%NOT SURE/
DON’T KNOW
NYANZA
35%
Gladys Wanga
LEADING
25%Oburu Oginga
31%NOT SURE/
DON’T KNOW
WESTERN
28%
Musalia Mudavadi
LEADING
22%Moses Wetang’ula
35%NOT SURE/
DON’T KNOW
COAST
60%
Hassan Joho
LEADING
4%Prof. Kithure Kindiki
31%NOT SURE/
DON’T KNOW
Kindiki polls 34% among both women and men
Among age groups, Kindiki peaks at 37% among 46–55 year olds
Not Sure/Don’t Know is highest among over 55s at 47% and among women at 40%
?In your opinion, who would be the best running mate for President William Ruto in the Broad-Based Government?n = 3000

2027 OPPOSITION PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES

BEST CHOICE OVERALL & BEST TICKETS

POPULAR PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES IN THE OPPOSITION

▾

PREFERRED PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE FOR THE OPPOSITION

 Kalonzo Musyoka27%
 Dr. Fred Matiang’i26%
 Edwin Sifuna19%
 Rigathi Gachagua9%
 David Maraga3%
 Martha Karua2%
 George Natembeya1%
 Eugene Wamalwa1%
 Okiya Omtatah1%
 Babu Owino1%
 Not Sure / Don’t Know10%

TOP FOUR CONTENDERS

Kalonzo Musyoka

Kalonzo Musyoka
27%
Dr. Fred Matiang’i

Dr. Fred Matiang’i
26%
Edwin Sifuna

Edwin Sifuna
19%
Rigathi Gachagua

Rigathi Gachagua
9%

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

Kalonzo Musyoka leads the opposition field at 27%, with Fred Matiang’i close behind at 26% — effectively a two-horse race at the top.
2

Edwin Sifuna posts a notable 19%, establishing himself as the clear third force in the opposition contest.
3

Rigathi Gachagua trails the top three at 9%, while the rest of the field remains in low single digits.
4

At 10%, undecided voters remain a meaningful bloc, suggesting the race is not fully settled.
?Whom would you prefer to be the presidential candidate for the opposition?n = 3000

POPULAR PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES IN THE OPPOSITION: BY REGION, GENDER & AGE

▾
Candidate Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Female Male 18–26 27–35 36–45 46–55 Over 55 Overall
Kalonzo Musyoka 23% 34% 48% 27% 24% 18% 21% 22% 25% 29% 24% 26% 29% 28% 29% 27%
Dr. Fred Matiang’i 25% 22% 21% 29% 27% 25% 29% 30% 25% 27% 25% 23% 30% 27% 24% 26%
Edwin Sifuna 25% 10% 11% 14% 17% 35% 25% 20% 19% 19% 27% 20% 17% 16% 12% 19%
Rigathi Gachagua 5% 11% 8% 17% 12% 6% 5% 6% 10% 9% 9% 10% 9% 10% 10% 9%
David Maraga 4% 3% 1% 1% 3% 2% 3% 5% 2% 3% 2% 4% 3% 2% 2% 3%
Martha Karua 4% 1% 1% 1% 3% 2% 1% 1% 2% 1% 3% 3% 1% 1% 3% 2%
George Natembeya 1% – 1% 1% 3% 0.3% 1% 1% 1% 1% 3% 1% 0.5% 1% 1% 1%
Eugene Wamalwa 1% 1% 1% 0.3% 0.4% 0.3% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 0.2% 1% 0.3% 1%
Okiya Omtatah – 1% – 0.3% 1% 2% 2% 1% 1% 0.4% 1% 0.5% 0.4% 1% 0.3% 1%
Babu Owino – – 1% 1% – – 1% 2% 1% 0.3% 2% 0.3% 0.4% 0.2% – 1%
Not Sure/Don’t Know 12% 17% 6% 10% 10% 10% 11% 12% 13% 8% 4% 11% 10% 14% 20% 10%
?Whom would you prefer to be the presidential candidate for the opposition?n = 3000

POPULAR OPPOSITION TICKET:

PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE WITH RUNNING MATE

▾

POPULAR OPPOSITION TICKET OPTIONS

 Kalonzo Musyoka with Edwin Sifuna23%
 Kalonzo Musyoka with Fred Matiang’i16%
 Fred Matiang’i with Kalonzo Musyoka15%
 Kalonzo Musyoka with Rigathi Gachagua5%
 Rigathi Gachagua with Kalonzo Musyoka4%
 Rigathi Gachagua with Fred Matiang’i4%
 Fred Matiang’i with Rigathi Gachagua4%
 Kalonzo Musyoka with Martha Karua3%
 Not Sure/Don’t Know21%

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

The most preferred opposition ticket is Kalonzo Musyoka with Edwin Sifuna at 23%.
2

The second and third-ranked ticket options are very close: Kalonzo Musyoka with Fred Matiang’i has 16%, while Fred Matiang’i with Kalonzo Musyoka has 15%.
3

No single ticket has majority backing, and “Not Sure/Don’t Know” remains high at 21%, signalling an unsettled opposition field.
4

The top two ticket options are both Kalonzo-led combinations.
TOP TICKET
23%
Kalonzo Musyoka with Edwin Sifuna
UNDECIDED
21%
Not Sure/Don’t Know
?In your opinion which would be the best Ticket (Presidential Candidate and running mate) for the United Oppositionn = 3000

POPULAR OPPOSITION TICKET: PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE WITH RUNNING MATE

▾

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

Kalonzo Musyoka with Edwin Sifuna is the leading opposition ticket nationally at 23%.
2

The Kalonzo–Sifuna ticket is strongest among 18–26 year olds (31%) and in Western region (36%).
3

Kalonzo Musyoka with Fred Matiang’i ranks second nationally at 16%, with especially strong support in North Eastern (23%) and Eastern (22%).
4

Fred Matiang’i with Kalonzo Musyoka ranks third nationally at 15%, and performs best in Nyanza and Nairobi (19% each) and among ages 36–45 (19%).
5

Uncertainty remains significant: Not Sure/Don’t Know is 21% overall, highest in Nairobi (27%) and among those aged over 55 years (28%); women are more undecided than men (23% vs 18%).
Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Female Male 18–26 27–35 36–45 46–55 Over 55
Kalonzo Musyoka with Edwin Sifuna 26% 17% 28% 14% 19% 36% 26% 21% 20% 26% 31% 24% 20% 19% 17%
Kalonzo Musyoka with Fred Matiang’i 15% 23% 22% 15% 15% 13% 13% 13% 15% 16% 18% 13% 17% 14% 15%
Fred Matiang’i with Kalonzo Musyoka 15% 10% 13% 17% 15% 12% 19% 19% 14% 16% 14% 13% 19% 14% 16%
Kalonzo Musyoka with Rigathi Gachagua 3% 5% 8% 7% 6% 4% 2% 5% 6% 5% 4% 7% 4% 7% 5%
Rigathi Gachagua with Kalonzo Musyoka 4% 5% 3% 7% 5% 4% 3% 2% 5% 4% 4% 5% 4% 3% 7%
Rigathi Gachagua with Fred Matiang’i 3% 6% 3% 10% 4% 3% 2% 2% 5% 4% 4% 4% 4% 6% 4%
Fred Matiang’i with Rigathi Gachagua 3% 3% 1% 7% 5% 2% 6% 5% 4% 4% 4% 4% 5% 4% 3%
Kalonzo Musyoka with Martha Karua 3% 6% 4% 3% 4% 4% 5% 3% 4% 3% 4% 6% 3% 5% 2%
Not Sure/Don’t Know 25% 22% 14% 17% 22% 20% 21% 27% 23% 18% 11% 23% 22% 25% 28%
?In your opinion which would be the best Ticket (Presidential Candidate and running mate) for the United Oppositionn = 3000

POLITICAL PARTY & POLITICAL ALLIANCES

POPULARITY

POLITICAL PARTY POPULARITY:

BY OVERALL

▾
▼
22%
United Democratic Alliance (UDA)
▼
21%
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)
▼
9%
Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP)
▼
5%
Wiper Democratic Front (WDF)
▼
6%
Jubilee Party
None / No Party Preference
29%
Others
2%
I don’t want
to disclose
7%
Not sure /
Don’t know
2%

OTHERS INCLUDE:

  • FORD-Kenya
  • KANU
  • Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP)
  • Party of National Unity (PNU)
  • Maendeleo Chap Chap Party
  • Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG)
  • People’s Liberation Party (PLP)
  • Usawa Kwa Wote Party
  • United Green Movement (UGM)
  • Thirdway Alliance Kenya
  • Ukweli Party
  • Frontier Alliance Party (FAP)
  • NARC
  • Muungano Party
  • Restore and Build Kenya Party
  • Peoples’ Empowerment Party (PEP)
  • Kenya National Congress (KNC)
  • Chama Cha Mashinani (CCM)
?Which political party do you currently feel closest to?n = 3000

POLITICAL PARTY POPULARITY: BY REGION, GENDER & AGE

▾
KEY TAKEOUT

Across regions and demographic groups, no single political party commands majority support. The largest share nationally is for the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) at 22%, followed by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) at 21%. A significant proportion of Kenyans do not feel close to any political party: 29% overall across regions and 29% across gender and age groups.

Political Party Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Female Male 18–26 27–35 36–45 46–55 Over 55 Overall
United Democratic Alliance (UDA) 27% 45% 16% 9% 39% 18% 13% 8% 19% 25% 17% 20% 21% 27% 25% 22%
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) 46% 23% 7% 6% 11% 32% 50% 16% 19% 23% 26% 20% 20% 22% 17% 21%
Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) 1% 1% 10% 33% 6% 3% 1% 8% 9% 9% 13% 6% 8% 9% 10% 9%
Wiper Democratic Front (WDF) 4% 1% 23% 1% 2% 1% 0.5% 4% 5% 5% 9% 5% 5% 2% 5% 5%
Jubilee Party 3% 2% 3% 7% 5% 2% 12% 6% 5% 7% 16% 5% 3% 2% 3% 6%
Others 2% 2% 3% 0.5% 2% 4% 2% 2% 2% 2% 5% 1% 1% 1% 2% 2%
I don’t want to disclose 3% 7% 8% 7% 5% 6% 10% 8% 8% 6% 6% 10% 7% 5% 8% 7%
None 14% 19% 30% 36% 29% 34% 13% 48% 32% 26% 14% 35% 33% 33% 31% 29%
?Which political party do you currently feel closest to?

n = 3000  |  Nationwide survey of adults 18 years and above conducted 22nd – 26th June 2026

POLITICAL PARTY POPULARITY – TREND ANALYSIS

JULY 2026

▾

n = 3000

POPULARITY OF POLITICAL PARTIES OVER TIME (%)

0%10%20%30%40%50%60%SEPTEMBER 2024AUGUST 2025DECEMBER 2025JUNE 2026

ODMUDADCPJubilee PartyWiperOthersI don’t want to discloseNone / No party
A) BIGGEST GAINS SINCE SEPTEMBER 2024
UDA+6 pp
DCP+9 pp
None / No party+29 pp
B) BIGGEST DECLINES SINCE SEPTEMBER 2024
ODM-17 pp
I don’t want to disclose-2 pp
Jubilee Party-2 pp
C) LATEST SNAPSHOT JUNE 2026
UDA22%
ODM21%
DCP9%
Jubilee Party6%
Wiper5%
Others2%
I don’t want to disclose7%
None / No party29%

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

ODM led in September 2024 at 38% but stands at 21% in June 2026.
2

UDA rose from 16% in September 2024 to 22% in June 2026 and is the highest named party in the latest wave.
3

DCP entered the trend later and stands at 9% in June 2026.
4

A sizeable non-aligned segment remains: 29% selected None / No party in June 2026, while 7% preferred not to disclose.

Source: Infotrak Voice of the People Poll, July 2026  |  pp = percentage points

POPULARITY OF POLITICAL FORMATIONS

▾

NATIONAL OVERALL

Broad-Based Government27%
Linda Mwananchi24%
United Alternative Government20%
None28%

KEY TAKEOUTS

1

“None” is the single largest overall response at 28%, showing many Kenyans do not currently identify with any political formation.
2

Broad-Based Government is the most popular named formation at 27%, ahead of Linda Mwananchi (24%) and United Alternative Government (20%).
3

Broad-Based Government is strongest in North Eastern (50%) and Rift Valley (43%). Linda Mwananchi performs best in Western (38%), Nairobi (29%) and Nyanza (28%), and is strongest among 18–26 year olds (33%).
4

United Alternative Government is strongest in Eastern (40%) and Central (35%).
5

Non-alignment is especially high in Coast (40%), Nairobi (39%) and among those aged over 55 years (38%).

BY REGION

Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Overall
Broad-Based Government 24% 50% 17% 9% 43% 27% 34% 14% 27%
Linda Mwananchi 25% 17% 18% 23% 20% 38% 28% 29% 24%
United Alternative Government 11% 8% 40% 35% 14% 7% 16% 19% 20%
None 40% 25% 25% 33% 23% 28% 22% 39% 28%

BY GENDER & AGE

Female Male 18–26 27–35 36–45 46–55 Over 55 Overall
Broad-Based Government 24% 30% 27% 25% 26% 31% 27% 27%
Linda Mwananchi 21% 26% 33% 27% 22% 19% 12% 24%
United Alternative Government 21% 20% 25% 16% 20% 18% 21% 20%
None 34% 24% 15% 32% 31% 33% 38% 28%
?Which of the following political formations do you feel closest to?n = 3000

7 THINGS THE POLL SAYS AND 7 THINGS IT DOES NOT SAY

IN A NUTSHELL

WHAT THE POLL SAYS

The race is open, despite Ruto’s lead — and political loyalties are fragmented, region by region.

▾
1
The race is open, despite Ruto’s lead
32%William Ruto — a strong lead, but not a majority

Ruto commands the highest single share of voter support nationally. However, he is still below majority level.

The rest of the field is split across several contenders — Kalonzo Musyoka 13%, Edwin Sifuna 12%, Fred Matiang’i 12% — with 20% still undecided or declined to answer.

Takeaway: A clear frontrunner. A fragmented field. An open race.

2
No political party or formation dominates

Political parties: UDA 22%, ODM 21%, DCP 9%, No Party Preference 29%.

Political formations: None 28%, Broad-Based Government 27%, Linda Mwananchi 24%, United Alternative Government 20%.

UDA and ODM are nearly level, while no party preference remains high at 29%. Among formations, no single option dominates, with ‘None’ at 28% only marginally ahead of the Broad-Based Government at 27%.

3
The Broad-Based Government is well known, but contested
79%have heard of the Broad-Based Government

Public sentiment: 33% support, 37% oppose, 27% neutral, 3% unsure.

Supporters mainly cite peace, stability and unity. Opponents mainly point to poor performance, political self-interest and corruption.

4
The opposition has choices, but no settled candidate

Preferred opposition candidate (overall): Kalonzo Musyoka 27%, Fred Matiang’i 26%, Edwin Sifuna 19%.

Kalonzo and Matiang’i are virtually tied for the top spot, while Sifuna commands notable support.

Takeaway: The opposition vote is fluid. The race for leadership — and tickets — is wide open.

5
Kalonzo–Sifuna leads among opposition tickets tested

Preferred opposition ticket (overall): Kalonzo–Sifuna 23%, Kalonzo–Matiang’i 16%, Matiang’i–Kalonzo 15%, Unsure/Declined 21%.

The tested ticket combinations show no dominant choice, although Kalonzo–Sifuna records the highest support.

Takeaway: The leading ticket is a signal, not a settled verdict.

6
Kindiki leads, but the running-mate question remains open

National running-mate preference: Kindiki 34%, Gladys Wanga 11%, Unsure 37%.

Regional anchors (highest preference): Mt Kenya — Kindiki 41%; Nyanza — Wanga 35%; Western — Mudavadi 28%; Coast — Joho 60%.

Takeaway: Kindiki leads nationally, but political value remains regionally distributed.

7
The country is voting in different ways

Ruto leads the presidential race at 32% nationally. UDA and ODM are almost tied at 22% and 21% respectively. 29% of Kenyans have no party preference. Running-mate and opposition preferences also differ across the country.

Takeaway: One election. Different voter realities.

Source: Infotrak Voice of the People Poll, July 2026  |  n = 3,000  |  Fieldwork: June 2026

WHAT THE POLL DOES NOT SAY

A poll reads the moment; it does not decide the election. A poll tests today’s choices; it does not define the final field.

▾
1It does not say the 2027 election has been decided

The findings measure opinion at the time of fieldwork, not the final 2027 result.

CAUTION: A poll is a snapshot, not a prophecy.

2It does not say a clear lead is majority support

Ruto’s 32% gives him a clear lead, but it remains below majority level.

CAUTION: A lead is not inevitability.

3It does not say awareness equals approval

79% awareness of the Broad-Based Government does not mean 79% support. Actual support is 33%.

CAUTION: Being known is not being endorsed.

4It does not say every small difference is meaningful

A one-point gap, such as between Kalonzo and Matiang’i, does not establish a clear lead.

CAUTION: Not every gap is a lead.

5It does not say uncertain voters form one bloc

Undecided, neutral, unaffiliated, non-disclosing and no-preference respondents come from different questions and may have different motivations.

CAUTION: Uncertain voters are not one bloc.

6It does not say popularity guarantees vote transfer

A regionally influential leader cannot automatically deliver all of that region’s votes to a presidential candidate.

CAUTION: Political influence does not automatically transfer votes.

7It does not say the tested options are the final options

Other candidates, alliances and ticket combinations may still emerge before August 2027.

CAUTION: The tested field is not necessarily the final field.

Use the poll to inform interpretation, not to overstate certainty. Polls are powerful tools, but political outcomes are shaped by campaigns, coalitions, turnout and events.

Source: Infotrak Voice of the People Poll, July 2026  |  n = 3,000

infotrakResearch & Consulting

Thank
You

22 years of driving impact
and creating insights together.

Tuko mbele na info

Address:
07 Jacaranda Avenue, Lavington,
P.O Box 23081 – 00100, Nairobi, Kenya

Telephone:
+254 202 338 988

E-mail Address:
info@infotrakresearch.com
Source: Infotrak Voice of the People Poll, July 2026 — Nationally representative survey of 3,000 adults across all 47 counties, conducted 22–26 June 2026.
Explore the CountyTrak Elected Leaders Performance Index →

]]> https://www.infotrakresearch.com/2743-2/feed/ 0 2743 CountyTrak 2026: Citizen Ratings of Elected Leaders https://www.infotrakresearch.com/visual-composer-2733/ https://www.infotrakresearch.com/visual-composer-2733/#respond Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:57:27 +0000 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/?p=2733

Leadership is measured not only by promises made during campaigns, but by the impact citizens experience every day. The latest CountyTrak Performance Index 2026 by Infotrak Research & Consulting offers a compelling snapshot of how Kenyans rate the performance of their Senators, Members of Parliament (MPs) and Women Reps, highlighting the growing importance of visibility, responsiveness, and meaningful engagement in public leadership.

How Kenyans Rate Their Senators

Senators occupy a unique position in Kenya's governance structure. Their constitutional mandate includes representing county interests, safeguarding devolution, legislating, and providing oversight. However, much of this work happens within Parliament and committee processes often away from the public eye.

The report finds that while institutional responsibilities remain critical, citizens increasingly judge Senators by how visible they are in championing county interests and communicating their achievements back home. Visibility, accessibility, oversight, and the ability to translate parliamentary work into tangible county benefits continue to shape public confidence.

Leading the national rankings is Kirinyaga Senator Hon. Kamau Murango, who scored 69%, followed closely by Nyandarua's Hon. John Methu (68%) and Murang'a's Hon. Joel Nyutu (65%). Other top-performing Senators include Hon. Samson Cherarkey (Nandi) and Hon. Aaron Cheruiyot (Kericho).

The report also recognizes significant improvements in performance, with Marsabit Senator Hon. Mohamed Said Chute recording the largest jump from 39% in 2024 to 56% in 2026 followed by Jackson Mandago (Uasin Gishu), James Lomenen (Turkana) and Hillary Sigei (Bomet).

What Makes a High-Performing MP?

For Members of Parliament, public expectations continue to extend beyond the constitutional roles of legislation and oversight.

According to the study, many Kenyans closely associate MPs with constituency development through NG-CDF projects, bursaries, schools, classrooms, and other visible community investments. As a result, MPs are often evaluated based on their presence within the constituency, accessibility to residents, responsiveness to local concerns, and the tangible value they deliver to communities.

When asked about the primary role of an MP, 53% of respondents identified managing and distributing Constituency Development Funds (CDF), while 49% cited representing constituencies in national legislation and policymaking. These findings underscore the dual expectations citizens place on their elected representatives.

Top Performers Set the Pace

The 2026 rankings showcase Members of Parliament who have consistently earned strong public confidence through their leadership and constituency engagement.

Embakasi East MP Hon. Babu Owino tops the national rankings with an impressive 80%, followed by Kabuchai MP Hon. Joseph Kalasinga (78%), while Hon. John Bwire (Taveta) and Hon. Ndindi Nyoro (Kiharu) share third place with 76%. They are closely followed by a strong group of legislators, including Hon. Naisula Lesuuda, Hon. Didmus Barasa, Hon. Reuben Kiborek, Hon. Gideon Kimaiyo, and Hon. Nelson Koech, each recognized for their high performance ratings.

Improvement Matters

Beyond recognising top performers, the report highlights leaders who have demonstrated remarkable growth since the previous assessment.

Hon. Adan Keynan (Eldas) emerged as the Most Improved Member of Parliament, improving from 41% in 2024 to 63% in 2026. He is followed by Onesmus Ngogoyo (Kajiado North), Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), Caroli Omondi (Suba South) and Didmus Barasa (Kimilili), reflecting significant progress in public perception and constituency performance.

The Bigger Picture

The CountyTrak Performance Index goes beyond rankings to reveal what citizens value most in their leaders.

As Kenya's democracy continues to evolve, the report provides valuable insights into public expectations and opportunities for stronger, more citizen-centred leadership.

Get the full report
]]> https://www.infotrakresearch.com/visual-composer-2733/feed/ 0 2733 Infotrak Poll on Public Perceptions of the Nyota Programme https://www.infotrakresearch.com/auto-draft-3/ https://www.infotrakresearch.com/auto-draft-3/#respond Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:29:45 +0000 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/?p=2682
InfoTrak Research & Consulting · January 2026

Infotrak VOP Poll: Awareness and Perceptions of the Nyota Programme

A nationally representative CATI survey of 800 adult Kenyans measuring public awareness, engagement, and perceptions of the Nyota Fund Programme — its objectives, eligibility criteria, process transparency, and the adequacy of its startup grant.

800
Respondents
47
Counties Covered
±3.46%
Margin of Error
78%
Aware of Nyota Fund

Methodology

Data Collection

Quantitative interviews were conducted through Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI) on 24th January 2026.

The survey sample achieved was 800, representing the universe of adult Kenyans 18 years and above at the time of the survey. The sampling frame was designed using Population Proportionate to Size (PPS), guided by the 2019 Census.

Where the achieved interviews differed slightly from the intended sampled proportions per demographic group, the dataset was weighted to correct for over- or under-sampling, ensuring the sample was proportionately representative of the target population.

Coverage & Analysis

The survey covered all 47 counties and 8 regions of Kenya. To ensure national representativeness, the distribution of the survey sample across the regions was proportionately allocated.

The margin of error was ±3.46% at a 95% degree of confidence, with a 100% response rate.

Data was processed and analyzed using SPSS 27 statistical software due to its high accuracy and reliability.

Who Sponsored the Poll

The poll was sponsored and financed by Infotrak Research & Consulting Limited.

Region Population (Millions) Regional Proportions Achieved Sample per Region
Coast 2.3 9% 65
North Eastern 1.0 4% 16
Eastern 3.9 15% 120
Central 3.4 13% 123
Rift Valley 6.6 26% 200
Western 2.5 10% 79
Nyanza 3.2 12% 109
Nairobi City 2.9 11% 88
Total 25.7 100% 800
Awareness of the Nyota Fund Programme
78%

Yes — 78%
No — 20%
Not sure — 3%
Region Yes No Not sure
Coast 85% 12% 3%
North Eastern 71% 29% 0%
Eastern 88% 12% 1%
Central 75% 24% 2%
Rift Valley 75% 20% 4%
Western 69% 29% 3%
Nyanza 79% 19% 2%
Nairobi 75% 19% 7%
Total 78% 20% 3%
Segment Yes No Not sure
Under Ksh 50k 78% 20% 3%
Ksh 50k+ 78% 20% 2%
Public Sector 79% 20% 1%
Private Sector 80% 17% 3%
Freelance – Gig Economy 80% 13% 7%
Unemployed 74% 22% 3%
Self employed 78% 20% 2%
Total 78% 20% 3%
Key Objectives of the Nyota Fund According to the Public
65%

Grants to start business — 65%
Training & mentorship for youth — 19%
Savings & Financial Inclusion — 4%
Don't Know / Not sure — 12%
Region Grants to start business Training & mentorship Savings & Financial Inclusion Don't Know / Not sure
Coast 64% 6% 11% 19%
North Eastern 35% 41% – 25%
Eastern 68% 10% 8% 13%
Central 54% 34% – 12%
Rift Valley 73% 13% 1% 12%
Western 56% 37% 4% 4%
Nyanza 60% 19% 6% 14%
Nairobi 80% 13% 2% 6%
Total 65% 19% 4% 12%
Segment Grants to start business Training & mentorship Savings & Financial Inclusion Don't Know / Not sure
Under Ksh 50k 65% 19% 4% 12%
Ksh 50k+ 66% 16% 9% 9%
Public Sector 48% 24% 6% 22%
Private Sector 63% 18% 5% 14%
Freelance – Gig Economy 72% 6% 10% 12%
Unemployed 66% 19% 3% 11%
Self employed 71% 18% 2% 8%
Total 65% 19% 4% 12%
Engagement with the Nyota Fund Programme
36%

Yes — 36%
No — 52%
Applied but not selected — 11%
Region Yes No Applied but not selected
Coast 22% 64% 14%
North Eastern 25% 67% 8%
Eastern 24% 65% 11%
Central 39% 47% 14%
Rift Valley 39% 50% 11%
Western 57% 34% 9%
Nyanza 41% 50% 9%
Nairobi 37% 51% 12%
Total 36% 52% 11%
Segment Yes No Applied but not selected
Under Ksh 50k 37% 52% 12%
Ksh 50k+ 32% 60% 8%
Public Sector 35% 57% 7%
Private Sector 34% 51% 15%
Freelance – Gig Economy 32% 62% 5%
Unemployed 35% 52% 13%
Self employed 40% 50% 9%
Total 36% 52% 11%
Perceived Fairness of Nyota Fund Eligibility Criteria
44%

Yes — 44%
No — 46%
Not sure — 10%
Region Yes No Not sure
Coast 36% 56% 7%
North Eastern 58% 33% 8%
Eastern 35% 52% 13%
Central 50% 41% 8%
Rift Valley 45% 44% 10%
Western 56% 37% 7%
Nyanza 44% 48% 8%
Nairobi 40% 50% 10%
Total 44% 46% 10%
Segment Yes No Not sure
Under Ksh 50k 44% 46% 9%
Ksh 50k+ 40% 48% 12%
Public Sector 56% 39% 4%
Private Sector 40% 53% 7%
Freelance – Gig Economy 45% 48% 7%
Unemployed 43% 42% 15%
Self employed 44% 48% 8%
Total 44% 46% 10%
Effectiveness of In-Person Validation in the Nyota Fund
57%

Yes — 57%
No — 32%
Not sure — 11%
Region Yes No Not sure
Coast 40% 42% 18%
North Eastern 67% 25% 8%
Eastern 49% 38% 12%
Central 53% 42% 4%
Rift Valley 59% 28% 13%
Western 71% 19% 11%
Nyanza 66% 23% 10%
Nairobi 56% 32% 12%
Total 57% 32% 11%
Segment Yes No Not sure
Under Ksh 50k 57% 31% 11%
Ksh 50k+ 50% 38% 12%
Public Sector 57% 30% 13%
Private Sector 56% 30% 14%
Freelance – Gig Economy 51% 46% 3%
Unemployed 52% 32% 16%
Self employed 62% 32% 6%
Total 57% 32% 11%
Priority Groups for Nyota Fund Support
Unemployed youth
44%
Youth with business ideas regardless of education
26%
People living with disabilities (PWDs)
19%
Informal sector e.g. jua kali
7%
Graduates
4%
Region Unemployed youth Youth w/ business ideas PWDs Informal sector Graduates
Coast 52% 27% 19% 2% –
North Eastern 55% 9% 19% 18% –
Eastern 41% 28% 17% 6% 8%
Central 48% 16% 26% 10% –
Rift Valley 45% 35% 13% 6% 1%
Western 37% 31% 23% 4% 5%
Nyanza 43% 17% 30% 5% 5%
Nairobi 38% 25% 14% 15% 8%
Total 44% 26% 19% 7% 4%
Segment Unemployed youth Youth w/ business ideas PWDs Informal sector Graduates
Under Ksh 50k 44% 26% 21% 6% 4%
Ksh 50k+ 45% 31% 5% 14% 5%
Public Sector 61% 19% 8% 11% –
Private Sector 44% 33% 16% 4% 3%
Freelance – Gig Economy 37% 20% 28% 3% 12%
Unemployed 42% 28% 20% 5% 4%
Self employed 41% 22% 23% 10% 3%
Total 44% 26% 19% 7% 4%
Public Assessment of Nyota Fund Process Transparency
25%

Very transparent — 25%
Somewhat transparent — 32%
Not transparent — 31%
Don't know — 11%
Region Very transparent Somewhat transparent Not transparent Don't know
Coast 20% 23% 42% 15%
North Eastern 16% 33% 34% 17%
Eastern 16% 34% 35% 15%
Central 21% 37% 31% 11%
Rift Valley 30% 29% 29% 12%
Western 38% 36% 21% 5%
Nyanza 22% 29% 39% 9%
Nairobi 34% 40% 21% 6%
Total 25% 32% 31% 11%
Segment Very transparent Somewhat transparent Not transparent Don't know
Under Ksh 50k 25% 33% 31% 11%
Ksh 50k+ 24% 26% 35% 16%
Public Sector 33% 21% 34% 12%
Private Sector 20% 34% 37% 9%
Freelance – Gig Economy 25% 31% 33% 11%
Unemployed 29% 30% 28% 13%
Self employed 23% 37% 30% 10%
Total 25% 32% 31% 11%
Sufficiency of the Nyota Fund Startup Grant
77%

Yes — enough to begin — 77%
No — too small for real impact — 19%
Not sure — 3%
Region Yes – enough to begin No – too small Not sure
Coast 66% 32% 2%
North Eastern 66% 26% 8%
Eastern 75% 19% 7%
Central 76% 21% 2%
Rift Valley 84% 14% 2%
Western 72% 22% 5%
Nyanza 78% 20% 2%
Nairobi 84% 13% 3%
Total 77% 19% 3%
Segment Yes – enough to begin No – too small Not sure
Under Ksh 50k 79% 18% 3%
Ksh 50k+ 62% 36% 2%
Public Sector 72% 27% 1%
Private Sector 75% 23% 1%
Freelance – Gig Economy 67% 25% 8%
Unemployed 80% 16% 4%
Self employed 80% 16% 4%
Total 77% 19% 3%
Survey Demographics

Age distribution

18-25 Yrs
14%
26-35 Yrs
50%
36-45 Yrs
21%
46+ Yrs
15%

Employment status

Self employed
31%
Unemployed
31%
Private Sector
22%
Public Sector
11%
Freelance – Gig Economy
6%
Gender

Male — 51%
Female — 49%
Income Bands

Under Ksh 50k — 92%
Ksh 50k+ — 8%
Infotrak VOP Poll: Awareness and Perceptions of the Nyota Programme · InfoTrak Research & Consulting, 2026

]]> https://www.infotrakresearch.com/auto-draft-3/feed/ 0 2682 CBC Under the Spotlight https://www.infotrakresearch.com/auto-draft-2/ https://www.infotrakresearch.com/auto-draft-2/#respond Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:11:33 +0000 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/?p=2661
InfoTrak Research & Consulting · January 2026

CBC/CBE Poll Release

A nationally representative telephone survey of Kenyan adults on the Competency-Based Curriculum/Competency-Based Education (CBC/CBE) reform, covering perceived quality of education, challenges in the transition to Senior Secondary, satisfaction with the CBC grading system, and public views on secondary school uniforms.

1,000
Respondents
47
Counties
±3.10%
Margin of Error

Methodology

Data Collection

The poll was sponsored and financed by Infotrak Research & Consulting Limited.

Quantitative interviews were conducted through Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI) between December 2025 and January 2026.

The survey covered all 47 counties and 8 regions of Kenya, with the sample proportionately allocated across the regions to ensure national representativeness.

Sample & Precision

The survey sample achieved was 1,000, representing the universe of adult Kenyans aged 18 years and above at the time of the survey, using a Population Proportionate to Size (PPS) sampling frame guided by the 2019 Census.

The margin of error was ±3.10% at a 95% degree of confidence, with a 99% response rate.

Where achieved interviews differed slightly from intended sampled proportions per demographic group, the dataset was weighted to correct for over- or under-sampling. Data was processed and analyzed using SPSS 27 statistical software.

Region Adult Population (M) Sample Proportion Achieved Sample
Coast 2.3 9% 91
North Eastern 1.0 4% 40
Eastern 3.9 15% 150
Central 3.4 13% 134
Rift Valley 6.6 26% 255
Western 2.5 10% 96
Nyanza 3.2 12% 123
Nairobi City 2.9 11% 111
Total 25.7 100% 1000

Perceived Quality of Education Since CBC/CBE Introduction

How would you rate the overall quality of education in Kenya today since the introduction of CBC/CBE?

National results

49%

Better — 49%
Worse — 33%
About the same — 18%
Response Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
Better 35% 78% 43% 43% 54% 60% 52% 42% 49%
About the same 15% 7% 19% 18% 20% 11% 24% 21% 18%
Worse 50% 15% 38% 39% 27% 29% 25% 36% 33%

Challenges Facing the Transition to Senior Secondary

What challenges, if any, do you think learners or parents are facing during this transition to Senior Secondary? (n = 1,000)

National results

39%

High cost of education (school fees, uniforms) — 39%
Lack of adequate information or guidance on the new system — 19%
Don't Know — 19%
Lack of School Fees — 13%
Uncertainty about student placement — 4%
Inadequate learning facilities, infrastructure and teachers — 2%
Psychological stress or anxiety among learners — 2%
Inadequate learning materials — 2%
Challenge Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
High cost of education (school fees, uniforms) 37% 37% 41% 39% 39% 38% 38% 43% 39%
Lack of adequate information or guidance on the new system 27% 22% 23% 17% 18% 23% 9% 14% 19%
Lack of School Fees 10% 10% 8% 19% 13% 11% 19% 9% 13%
Uncertainty about student placement 3% 12% 7% 2% 5% 3% 4% 2% 4%
Inadequate learning facilities, infrastructure and teachers – – 4% 5% 2% 2% 2% – 2%
Psychological stress or anxiety among learners 1% – 1% 1% 4% 1% 2% 4% 2%
Inadequate learning materials 1% 2% 1% 1% 3% 2% 2% 2% 2%
Don't Know 21% 17% 14% 17% 15% 19% 24% 27% 19%

Level of Satisfaction with the CBC Grading System

Are you satisfied or dissatisfied with the CBC grading system of Exceeds Expectation, Meets Expectation, Approaching Expectation, and Below Expectation? (n = 1,000)

National results

38%

Yes — 38%
No — 45%
I Don't Know — 17%
Response Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
Yes 23% 80% 32% 30% 42% 46% 38% 37% 38%
No 55% 12% 50% 48% 43% 35% 47% 49% 45%
I Don't Know 22% 7% 19% 22% 15% 19% 15% 14% 17%

Public Views on Making Secondary School Uniforms Optional

Do you think the government should do away with the uniform requirements for secondary school? (n = 800)

National results

34%

Yes — 34%
No — 63%
Don't Know — 3%
Response Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
Yes 34% 36% 30% 43% 51% 34% 27% 34% 34%
No 64% 59% 68% 53% 40% 64% 73% 63% 63%
Not Sure 2% 5% 2% 5% 9% 2% 1% 3% 3%

Survey Demographics

Profile of the 1,000 respondents interviewed.

Age

18-26 yrs: 11%

27-35 yrs: 36%

36-45 yrs: 31%

46-55 yrs: 14%

55+ yrs: 8%

Gender

Male: 51%

Female: 49%

Religion

Christian: 55%

Catholic: 33%

Islam: 8%

None: 3%

Employment

Self-employed: 44%

Unemployed: 26%

Casually employed: 20%

Formally employed: 9%

Prefer not to answer: 1%

Level of Education

Secondary: 45%

Tertiary College: 22%

Primary: 20%

University/Post-graduate: 12%

None: 2%

CBC/CBE Poll Release · InfoTrak Research & Consulting, January 2026

]]> https://www.infotrakresearch.com/auto-draft-2/feed/ 0 2661 Mulembe Nation Poll December 2025 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/mulembe-nation-poll-2025/ https://www.infotrakresearch.com/mulembe-nation-poll-2025/#respond Thu, 08 Jan 2026 08:41:25 +0000 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/?p=2646
InfoTrak Research & Consulting · December 2025

Mulembe Nation Poll

A telephonic opinion poll of registered voters across the five Luhya-nation counties of Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia and Trans Nzoia, covering the Abaluhya community's top negotiating priorities, party loyalty, and leadership preferences ahead of the 2027 elections.

602
Achieved Sample
5
Counties Covered
±4.0%
Margin of Error

Methodology

Data Collection

Fieldwork conducted on 29th December, 2025.

Interviews were conducted through Computer Assisted Telephonic Interviews (CATI).

Universe: voters aged 18 years and above at the time of the poll, across the 5 counties covered.

Target sample size of 600 respondents; achieved sample of 602.

Margin of error of ±4.0% at a 95% degree of confidence.

Response rate of 100%.

Data processed and analysed using SPSS 27 statistical software.

County Voter Population % of Voter Population Sample Distribution Achieved Sample
Kakamega 844,551 32% 194 197
Vihiga 310,043 12% 71 69
Bungoma 646,598 25% 148 148
Busia 416,756 16% 96 96
Trans Nzoia 398,981 15% 91 92
Total 2,616,929 100% 600 602
Abaluhya Priorities

What is the one issue the Abaluhya community should prioritise most in national negotiations? (n = 602)

Top priority issue, all respondents

Roads / infrastructure
21%
Cost of living
17%
Market for agricultural produce
12%
Revival of the sugar industry
11%
Health services
10%
Youth employment
9%
Education / TVET
9%
Devolution funding
5%
Security
3%
Not sure
3%
Issue Kakamega Vihiga Bungoma Busia Trans Nzoia Total
Roads / infrastructure 15% 39% 18% 20% 26% 21%
Cost of living 19% 6% 20% 23% 12% 17%
Market for agricultural produce 10% 17% 8% 14% 14% 12%
Revival of the sugar industry 13% 6% 14% 9% 5% 11%
Health services 7% 4% 11% 6% 22% 10%
Youth employment 11% 12% 9% 10% 5% 9%
Education / TVET 8% 7% 13% 6% 9% 9%
Devolution funding 5% 7% 5% 5% 5% 5%
Security 7% – 1% 1% 1% 3%
Not sure 6% 1% 2% 5% – 3%
Issue Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 55+ Total
Roads / infrastructure 19% 22% 33% 21% 19% 18% 22% 21%
Cost of living 15% 20% 6% 23% 20% 11% 11% 17%
Market for agricultural produce 15% 9% 6% 16% 9% 14% 9% 12%
Revival of the sugar industry 9% 12% 4% 8% 11% 15% 16% 11%
Health services 10% 9% 8% 7% 12% 8% 15% 10%
Youth employment 10% 9% 18% 8% 6% 14% 11% 9%
Education / TVET 9% 9% 14% 7% 10% 8% 9% 9%
Devolution funding 7% 4% 2% 5% 6% 5% 5% 5%
Security 3% 2% – 2% 4% 2% – 3%
Not sure 4% 3% 8% 2% 4% 5% 2% 3%
Political Party Support

Which political party do you support today? (n = 602)

Political party support, all respondents

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)
25%
United Democratic Alliance (UDA)
20%
Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP)
7%
FORD-Kenya
4%
Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF)
4%
Jubilee Party
3%
DAP-K
2%
Party of National Unity (PNU)
1%
United Green Movement (UGM)
1%
Maendeleo Chap Chap Party
1%
Restore and Build Kenya Party
1%
Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG)
1%
Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP)
1%
Others
5%
None
9%
I don't want to disclose
17%
Party Kakamega Vihiga Bungoma Busia Trans Nzoia Total
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) 29% 25% 18% 27% 26% 25%
United Democratic Alliance (UDA) 13% 24% 27% 17% 21% 20%
Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) 8% 1% 5% 11% 5% 7%
FORD-Kenya 3% 4% 7% 2% 3% 4%
Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) 3% 9% 3% 1% 4% 4%
Jubilee Party 5% 3% 1% 1% 2% 3%
DAP-K 1% 1% 1% 3% 2% 2%
Party of National Unity (PNU) 2% – – 2% 1% 1%
United Green Movement (UGM) 2% – – 1% 2% 1%
Maendeleo Chap Chap Party 1% – – 2% 2% 1%
Restore and Build Kenya Party 1% – 1% 1% 1% 1%
Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG) 1% – – 2% 2% 1%
Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) 1% – 1% – 2% 1%
Others 9% 1% 2% 8% 2% 5%
None 9% 10% 7% 5% 13% 9%
I don't want to disclose 14% 21% 26% 16% 10% 17%
Party Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 55+ Total
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) 25% 25% 14% 25% 26% 28% 23% 25%
United Democratic Alliance (UDA) 22% 18% 10% 15% 21% 21% 38% 20%
Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) 7% 7% 2% 6% 9% 3% 13% 7%
FORD-Kenya 3% 5% 2% 3% 7% 2% 2% 4%
Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) 4% 3% 4% 4% 4% 2% – 4%
Jubilee Party 3% 2% 12% 2% 1% 6% – 3%
DAP-K 2% 1% – 2% 2% 1% – 2%
Party of National Unity (PNU) 1% 1% – 2% 1% – 2% 1%
United Green Movement (UGM) 1% 1% 4% 1% 0.4% 1% – 1%
Maendeleo Chap Chap Party 0.3% 2% 4% 1% 1% 1% – 1%
Restore and Build Kenya Party 1% 0.3% 4% 1% 0.4% – – 1%
Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG) 2% – 4% – 1% 1% – 1%
Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) 0.3% 1% – 1% 1% – 2% 1%
Others 5% 5% 10% 6% 4% 5% 6% 5%
None 6% 11% 16% 11% 7% 7% 4% 9%
I don't want to disclose 16% 18% 12% 21% 15% 20% 11% 17%
Preferred Presidential Aspirant

Assuming a presidential election were held today, who would you vote for as President? (n = 602)

Preferred presidential aspirant, all respondents

William Ruto
25%
Fred Matiang'i
15%
George Natembeya
13%
Kalonzo Musyoka
8%
Babu Owino
3%
Gladys Wanga
2%
Rigathi Gachagua
2%
David Maraga
2%
Martha Karua
0.5%
Prefer not to say
5%
Undecided
25%
Aspirant Kakamega Vihiga Bungoma Busia Trans Nzoia Total
William Ruto 19% 33% 30% 23% 26% 25%
Fred Matiang'i 14% 17% 10% 22% 15% 15%
George Natembeya 12% 6% 14% 16% 16% 13%
Kalonzo Musyoka 7% 13% 6% 9% 11% 8%
Babu Owino 5% 3% 1% 4% 3% 3%
Gladys Wanga 3% 4% – 2% 2% 2%
Rigathi Gachagua 4% – 1% 1% 1% 2%
David Maraga 4% 3% 1% – – 2%
Martha Karua 2% – – – – 0.5%
Prefer not to say 8% 4% 4% 3% 2% 5%
Undecided 24% 16% 33% 20% 23% 25%
Aspirant Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 55+ Total
William Ruto 27% 23% 18% 21% 25% 29% 40% 25%
Fred Matiang'i 17% 13% 18% 11% 17% 19% 11% 15%
George Natembeya 13% 14% 8% 11% 17% 9% 15% 13%
Kalonzo Musyoka 8% 8% 14% 10% 6% 7% 9% 8%
Babu Owino 3% 3% 6% 2% 2% 4% 5% 3%
Gladys Wanga 2% 2% 4% 3% 1% 1% 2% 2%
Rigathi Gachagua 2% 1% 2% 1% 3% 1% – 2%
David Maraga 2% 1% – 3% 1% 1% 2% 2%
Martha Karua 1% 0.3% – – 1% – 2% 0.5%
Prefer not to say 5% 5% 4% 7% 4% 5% – 5%
Undecided 20% 29% 24% 31% 23% 23% 15% 25%
Leaders Who Influence Abaluhya Politics

Which leaders do you think currently influence Abaluhya politics? (n = 602)

Leaders who influence Abaluhya politics, all respondents

George Natembeya
50%
Musalia Mudavadi
32%
Edwin Sifuna
31%
Moses Wetangula
29%
Wycliffe Oparanya
14%
Eugene Wamalwa
13%
Cleophas Malala
10%
Peter Salasya
7%
Fred Gumo
5%
Bonny Khalwale
4%
Okiyah Omtatah
3%
Ken Lusaka
2%
Caleb Amisi
1%
Godfrey Osotsi
1%
Paul Otuoma
1%
Didmus Barasa
1%
Others
2%
Don't Know/Refused to say
17%

Additional leaders named individually by respondents under the "Others" category included: Francis Atwoli, Elsie Busihile Muhanda, Wilber Otichilo, Jack Wanami Wamboka, Fredrick Lusuli Ikana, Majimbo Kalasinga, Wycliffe Wangamati and Nabwera Daraja.

Leader Kakamega Vihiga Bungoma Busia Trans Nzoia Total
George Natembeya 44% 49% 51% 47% 70% 50%
Musalia Mudavadi 23% 45% 41% 32% 29% 32%
Edwin Sifuna 26% 29% 20% 52% 39% 31%
Moses Wetangula 26% 23% 39% 26% 28% 29%
Wycliffe Oparanya 19% 28% 4% 9% 12% 14%
Eugene Wamalwa 7% 28% 12% 14% 14% 13%
Cleophas Malala 8% 10% 5% 15% 20% 10%
Peter Salasya 10% 4% 9% 9% – 7%
Fred Gumo 1% – – 14% 14% 5%
Bonny Khalwale 7% – 2% 3% 3% 4%
Okiyah Omtatah 1% 3% 1% 14% – 3%
Ken Lusaka 1% – 5% – 1% 2%
Caleb Amisi – 1% 1% 2% 4% 1%
Godfrey Osotsi 1% 1% 1% 1% 3% 1%
Paul Otuoma 1% 1% – 3% – 1%
Didmus Barasa – – 3% – 1% 1%
Others 3% – 2% – 3% 2%
Don't Know/Refused to say 28% 4% 17% 14% 5% 17%
Leader Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 55+ Total
George Natembeya 48% 53% 39% 53% 53% 53% 40% 50%
Musalia Mudavadi 30% 34% 22% 28% 37% 28% 42% 32%
Edwin Sifuna 36% 27% 39% 27% 31% 41% 22% 31%
Moses Wetangula 27% 31% 35% 28% 31% 25% 27% 29%
Wycliffe Oparanya 14% 14% 8% 11% 16% 19% 11% 14%
Eugene Wamalwa 12% 14% 10% 12% 16% 16% – 13%
Cleophas Malala 12% 9% 12% 12% 8% 11% 11% 10%
Peter Salasya 8% 7% 16% 7% 7% 8% 4% 7%
Fred Gumo 7% 3% 16% 3% 3% 3% 9% 5%
Bonny Khalwale 3% 4% – 4% 4% 4% 4% 4%
Okiyah Omtatah 3% 3% 2% 4% 3% 2% 2% 3%
Ken Lusaka 1% 2% – 1% 3% – 2% 2%
Caleb Amisi 2% 0.3% 2% 2% 1% 1% 2% 1%
Godfrey Osotsi 2% 0.3% 4% 1% 0.4% 1% 4% 1%
Paul Otuoma 1% 1% 10% – – 1% – 1%
Didmus Barasa 1% 1% – 2% 0.4% – – 1%
Others 2% 2% – 2% 2% – 5% 2%
Don't Know/Refused to say 14% 19% 12% 18% 15% 20% 18% 17%
Abaluhya Community Kingpin

In your opinion, who is currently the primary political "Kingpin" of the Western region (the person who effectively champions the community's rights)? (n = 602)

Abaluhya community kingpin, all respondents

George Natembeya
36%
Musalia Mudavadi
18%
Moses Wetang'ula
14%
Wycliffe Oparanya
8%
Edwin Sifuna
5%
Peter Salasya
2%
Eugene Wamalwa
1%
Mukhisa Kituyi
1%
Cleophas Malala
1%
Paul Otuoma
1%
Bonny Khalwale
1%
Kenneth Lusaka
0.5%
Caleb Amisi
0.5%
Fred Gumo
0.5%
Okiyah Omtatah
0.2%
None / Not sure
10%
Leader Kakamega Vihiga Bungoma Busia Trans Nzoia Total
George Natembeya 30% 26% 36% 42% 50% 36%
Musalia Mudavadi 11% 43% 9% 27% 20% 18%
Moses Wetang'ula 9% 6% 30% 2% 16% 14%
Wycliffe Oparanya 17% 6% 2% 2% 8% 8%
Edwin Sifuna 9% – 3% 7% 1% 5%
Peter Salasya 4% 1% 1% 4% – 2%
Eugene Wamalwa 2% 3% 1% 1% – 1%
Mukhisa Kituyi 3% – – – – 1%
Cleophas Malala 2% – 1% – – 1%
Paul Otuoma 1% – – 2% 1% 1%
Bonny Khalwale 2% 1% – – – 1%
Kenneth Lusaka 1% – 1% 1% – 0.5%
Caleb Amisi 2% – – – – 0.5%
Fred Gumo 2% – – – – 0.5%
Okiyah Omtatah – – – 1% – 0.2%
None / Not sure 8% 13% 14% 10% 3% 10%
Leader Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 55+ Total
George Natembeya 39% 33% 29% 38% 36% 36% 38% 36%
Musalia Mudavadi 20% 16% 12% 16% 20% 20% 24% 18%
Moses Wetang'ula 11% 16% 14% 13% 18% 7% 9% 14%
Wycliffe Oparanya 9% 7% 10% 8% 8% 10% 8% 8%
Edwin Sifuna 4% 6% 8% 5% 5% 5% 2% 5%
Peter Salasya 2% 3% 10% 3% 1% 2% 2% 2%
Eugene Wamalwa 1% 1% – 1% 2% 2% – 1%
Mukhisa Kituyi 0.3% 2% 2% 1% 1% – 2% 1%
Cleophas Malala 1% 1% – 1% 1% – 2% 1%
Paul Otuoma 1% 0.3% 2% 1% 1% – – 1%
Bonny Khalwale – 1% – 1% – 2% 2% 1%
Kenneth Lusaka 0.3% 1% – 1% 0.4% 1% – 0.5%
Caleb Amisi 0.3% 1% 2% – 0.4% 1% – 0.5%
Fred Gumo 1% 0.3% – 1% – – 2% 0.5%
Okiyah Omtatah 0.3% – – – – 1% – 0.2%
None / Not sure 8% 11% 10% 12% 7% 11% 11% 10%
Survey Demographics

Profile of the 602 respondents interviewed.

Age distribution

18-26 years
8%
27-35 years
30%
36-45 years
37%
46-55 years
16%
Over 55 years
9%

Gender

52%

Female — 52%
Male — 48%

Religion

63%

Protestant — 63%
Catholic — 28%
Islam — 5%
None — 2%

Employment status

Self-employed
35%
Casually employed
32%
Unemployed
23%
Formally employed
10%
Prefer not to answer
1%

Level of education

Secondary
50%
Tertiary College
24%
Primary
16%
University/Post-graduate
9%
None
1%
Mulembe Nation Poll · InfoTrak Research & Consulting, December 2025

]]> https://www.infotrakresearch.com/mulembe-nation-poll-2025/feed/ 0 2646 Infotrak Voice of the People Poll – September 2025 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/infotrak-voice-of-the-people-poll-september-2025/ https://www.infotrakresearch.com/infotrak-voice-of-the-people-poll-september-2025/#respond Thu, 25 Sep 2025 09:04:04 +0000 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/?p=2617
InfoTrak Research & Consulting · Phase One · August 2025

Voice of the People Poll – August 2025

A national opinion poll on the direction of the country, the public's priority issues of concern, and the cost of living, based on Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI) with 2,400 adult Kenyans across all 47 counties, conducted 13th–14th August 2025.

2,400
Respondents
47
Counties Covered
±2%
Margin of Error
96%
Response Rate

Methodology

Who Sponsored the Poll

The poll was sponsored and financed by Infotrak Research & Consulting Limited.

Fieldwork Dates

Interviews were conducted between 13th–14th August, 2025.

Data Collection Method

Quantitative interviews were conducted through Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI).

Survey Sample

The survey sample achieved was 2,400, representing the universe of adult Kenyans aged 18 years and above. The sampling frame was designed using Population Proportionate to Size (PPS) guided by the 2019 Census.

The survey covered all 47 counties and 8 regions of Kenya, with the sample distribution proportionately allocated across the regions to ensure national representativeness.

Margin of Error & Response Rate

The margin of error was ±2% at a 95% degree of confidence.

The response rate achieved was 96%.

Weighting & Data Analysis

Where the achieved interviews differed slightly from the intended sampled proportions per demographic group, the dataset was weighted to correct for over or under sampling.

Data was processed and analyzed using SPSS 27 statistical software due to its high accuracy and reliability.

Region Sample Achieved (n) Regional Proportion Adult Population (M)
Coast 216 9% 2.3
North Eastern 95 4% 1.0
Eastern 361 15% 3.9
Central 321 13% 3.4
Rift Valley 614 26% 6.6
Western 231 10% 2.5
Nyanza 295 12% 3.2
Nairobi 267 11% 2.9
Total 2400 100% 25.7

Summary of the Findings

1. Direction the Country is Heading

A clear majority (57%) of Kenyans feel the country is headed in the Wrong Direction.

Public sentiment is fundamentally driven by economic distress (cost of living and unemployment), overshadowing perceived successes in peace or government efforts.

The government must prioritize delivering immediate, tangible economic relief to reverse the dominant mood of pessimism and rebuild public trust.

2. Key Issues of Concern

The public's top five priority concerns are all rooted in economic hardship and social welfare (Cost of Living, Unemployment, SHIF/SHA, Corruption, Education Costs).

The national dialogue is not about politics, but about household survival and the perceived failure of social safety nets (healthcare, education) and job creation.

Policy efforts must be seen to aggressively tackle these core livelihood issues; failure to stabilize prices and clarify SHIF implementation will continue to fuel public anxiety.

3. The Cost of Living

The high cost of living is a near-universal and worsening reality, with 79% of Kenyans feeling it is higher than a year ago and 70% rating it as "High" or "Very High."

The economic crisis is profound, affecting the vast majority of households, and is felt most acutely by older demographics (55+).

Incremental changes will not suffice; urgent, impactful measures are needed to stabilize the prices of basic goods and protect vulnerable segments of the population.

4. Reasons Behind the High Cost of Living

Taxes are the dominant cause of the high cost of living, cited by 40% of the public, significantly outweighing global factors (19%).

The public believes the economic crisis is domestically induced by the government's fiscal policies (high taxes) and poor governance (corruption).

The administration is under pressure to either revise its taxation strategy or dramatically improve the return on taxes through exceptional public service delivery.

Direction of the Country

Overall, which direction do you think the Country is headed? (n = 2,400)

National direction, all respondents

17%

Right direction — 17%
Wrong direction — 57%
Neither right nor wrong — 21%
Don't know/Refused to answer — 5%
Period Right Direction Wrong Direction Neither Right nor Wrong Don't Know/Refused
Sept-23 30% 53% 13% 3%
May-24 19% 63% 16% 2%
Sept-24 19% 50% 29% 2%
Oct-24 11% 73% 15% 1%
Aug-25 17% 57% 21% 5%
Direction of the Country — Breakdowns

By region, gender, and age

Region Right Direction Wrong Direction Neither Right nor Wrong Don't Know/Refused
North Eastern 24% 48% 20% 7%
Rift Valley 21% 50% 24% 5%
Coast 21% 52% 23% 5%
Eastern 19% 61% 16% 5%
Nyanza 16% 53% 22% 10%
Western 15% 62% 19% 4%
Nairobi 13% 58% 25% 4%
Central 10% 71% 17% 2%
Total 17% 57% 21% 5%
Group Right Direction Wrong Direction Neither Right nor Wrong Don't Know/Refused
Male 19% 54% 22% 4%
Female 15% 59% 20% 6%
18-26 years 25% 51% 19% 5%
27-35 years 17% 55% 21% 7%
36-45 years 16% 59% 21% 4%
46-55 years 13% 61% 21% 4%
Over 55 years 16% 58% 21% 6%
Total 17% 57% 21% 5%

Reasons Why Kenyans Feel the Country is Headed in the Right Direction

You have mentioned that the country is headed in the right direction, why do you say this? (n = 404)

There is peace in the country
41%
The government is doing well
37%
The economy is stabilizing
28%
My governor is working well
13%
The cost of living is affordable
6%
Establishment of SHIF and improvements in healthcare services
6%
Education has improved
5%
The country has good infrastructure
5%
Devolution has made a difference
4%
The cooperation between ODM and UDA (Broad Based Government)
1%
My candidate is in power
1%
Formation of the new cabinet
1%
The county assembly (MCAs) are working well
1%
The country is actively fighting corruption
1%
Reasons for Right Direction — Breakdowns

By region, gender, and age (n = 404)

Reason Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
There is peace in the country 38% 55% 36% 49% 39% 34% 51% 38% 41%
The government is doing well 28% 46% 36% 38% 36% 53% 33% 42% 37%
The economy is stabilizing 25% 41% 33% 22% 26% 22% 27% 35% 28%
My governor is working well 17% – 9% 12% 16% 18% 13% 5% 13%
The cost of living is affordable 5% 7% 9% 6% 8% – 6% – 6%
Establishment of SHIF and improvements in healthcare services 9% – 10% 4% 4% 10% 2% 8% 6%
Education has improved 14% – 8% 3% 3% 6% – 6% 5%
The country has good infrastructure 7% – 7% 4% 2% 11% 7% 8% 5%
Devolution has made a difference 3% – 4% 3% 5% 3% 2% 8% 4%
The cooperation between ODM and UDA (Broad Based Government) – 5% 1% 4% 2% – – – 1%
My candidate is in power 3% 4% 1% – 1% 3% 2% – 1%
Formation of the new cabinet – – 2% – – 5% – 3% 1%
The county assembly (MCAs) are working well 4% – – – 1% 3% – – 1%
The country is actively fighting corruption – – 3% – – – – – 1%
Reason Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 Over 55 Total
There is peace in the country 40% 42% 40% 41% 44% 33% 40% 41%
The government is doing well 40% 34% 42% 38% 32% 37% 49% 37%
The economy is stabilizing 30% 26% 32% 28% 29% 31% 10% 28%
My governor is working well 11% 15% 13% 14% 13% 14% 3% 13%
The cost of living is affordable 6% 6% 8% 4% 5% 15% 3% 6%
Establishment of SHIF and improvements in healthcare services 3% 9% 1% 6% 7% 8% 8% 6%
Education has improved 3% 8% 3% 6% 4% 5% 8% 5%
The country has good infrastructure 5% 5% 3% 7% 3% 7% 8% 5%
Devolution has made a difference 4% 4% 4% 4% 3% 2% 8% 4%
The cooperation between ODM and UDA (Broad Based Government) 2% 1% 3% – 2% – 3% 1%
My candidate is in power 2% 1% 2% 1% 2% 4% – 1%
Formation of the new cabinet 1% 1% 2% 1% – 4% – 1%
The county assembly (MCAs) are working well 2% – 1% 1% 1% – – 1%
The country is actively fighting corruption – 1% – 2% – – – 1%

Reasons Why Kenyans Feel the Country is Headed in the Wrong Direction

You have mentioned that the country is headed in the wrong direction; why do you say so? (n = 1,356)

High cost of living
66%
Unemployment
30%
Poor Governance
15%
SHIF/SHA is not working
15%
Rampant corruption in the country
14%
Ongoing challenges in the education sector
11%
Poverty
8%
Extra Judicial Killings
7%
Poor infrastructure
6%
Lack of cohesion in the country
5%
Stalled Government Projects
5%
Increased insecurity/crime
4%
Tribalism
4%
Unequal distribution of resources/jobs
3%
Arbitrary arrest and detention
2%
Abductions
1%
Overblowing public debt
1%
Unresolved land/squatter issues
1%
Erosion of societal values
1%
Reasons for Wrong Direction — Breakdowns

By region, gender, and age (n = 1,356)

Reason Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
High cost of living 61% 73% 63% 67% 70% 66% 75% 57% 66%
Unemployment 39% 44% 24% 33% 28% 32% 28% 27% 30%
Poor Governance 12% 17% 17% 19% 14% 15% 8% 17% 15%
SHIF/SHA is not working 12% 6% 11% 16% 15% 20% 20% 15% 15%
Rampant corruption in the country 25% 8% 12% 12% 16% 10% 14% 19% 14%
Ongoing challenges in the education sector 8% 18% 10% 11% 8% 10% 15% 13% 11%
Poverty 12% 11% 7% 8% 8% 6% 6% 6% 8%
Extra Judicial Killings 4% 2% 4% 7% 7% 14% 13% 6% 7%
Poor infrastructure 4% 12% 6% 6% 4% 10% 5% 6% 6%
Lack of cohesion in the country 6% 2% 7% 2% 4% 6% 5% 4% 5%
Stalled Government Projects 2% 12% 4% 5% 4% 7% 6% 3% 5%
Increased insecurity/crime 4% 4% 5% 4% 4% 3% 5% 5% 4%
Tribalism 5% 9% 3% 5% 2% 4% 2% 4% 4%
Unequal distribution of resources/jobs 4% 2% 5% 5% 2% 4% 2% 3% 3%
Arbitrary arrest and detention 1% – 0.4% 2% 3% 4% – 1% 2%
Abductions 2% – 2% 2% 3% 1% 1% – 1%
Overblowing public debt – – 3% 1% 2% – 1% 2% 1%
Unresolved land/squatter issues – – 3% 1% – – – 1% 1%
Erosion of societal values – 2% 1% 0.4% 1% – – 1% 1%
Reason Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 Over 55 Total
High cost of living 63% 69% 59% 64% 72% 64% 68% 66%
Unemployment 32% 28% 35% 27% 34% 26% 29% 30%
Poor Governance 16% 14% 14% 13% 16% 17% 17% 15%
SHIF/SHA is not working 14% 16% 19% 16% 12% 17% 10% 15%
Rampant corruption in the country 13% 16% 13% 15% 16% 13% 11% 14%
Ongoing challenges in the education sector 11% 10% 14% 12% 8% 12% 7% 11%
Poverty 7% 9% 8% 9% 7% 7% 8% 8%
Extra Judicial Killings 7% 7% 6% 7% 9% 6% 5% 7%
Poor infrastructure 6% 6% 5% 6% 5% 7% 7% 6%
Lack of cohesion in the country 6% 4% 4% 4% 6% 6% 2% 5%
Stalled Government Projects 5% 4% 4% 5% 5% 4% 5% 5%
Increased insecurity/crime 5% 4% 4% 4% 5% 4% 3% 4%
Tribalism 3% 4% 2% 4% 4% 4% – 4%
Unequal distribution of resources/jobs 3% 3% 5% 2% 3% 5% 5% 3%
Arbitrary arrest and detention 2% 1% 3% 2% 1% 2% 1% 2%
Abductions 2% 1% 3% 1% 1% 3% 1% 1%
Overblowing public debt 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% 3% 1% 1%
Unresolved land/squatter issues 1% 1% 2% 1% 0.5% 1% – 1%
Erosion of societal values 1% 1% 1% 0.4% 0.5% 1% 1% 1%

Key Issues of Concern

Which three key issues concern you as a Kenyan and need to be addressed by the government as a matter of priority? (n = 2,400)

High cost of living
40%
Unemployment
36%
Access to quality and affordable education
31%
SHIF/SHA issues
27%
Corruption
25%
Over taxation
20%
Transport, Infrastructure and Roads
15%
Access to quality and affordable healthcare
13%
Extra-judicial killings
9%
Insecurity/crime
8%
Empowerment of youth
8%
Cost of doing business
7%
Poverty reduction
5%
Access to clean water
4%
Cost of farm inputs (e.g. fertilizer, seeds)
4%
Women empowerment
3%
Equal distribution of resources
3%
Student protests
2%
Public participation
2%
Drug and substance abuse
2%
Alcoholism
2%
Ethnicity/Tribalism
1%
Environmental conservation
1%
Disaster management
1%
Key Issues of Concern — Breakdowns

By region, gender, and age (n = 2,400)

Issue Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
High cost of living 39% 42% 41% 41% 38% 46% 38% 36% 40%
Unemployment 41% 35% 36% 38% 33% 32% 31% 41% 36%
Access to quality and affordable education 23% 31% 30% 30% 31% 32% 34% 31% 31%
SHIF/SHA issues 20% 20% 26% 30% 30% 27% 30% 26% 27%
Corruption 23% 19% 27% 27% 23% 27% 26% 28% 25%
Over taxation 29% 20% 17% 22% 19% 16% 19% 21% 20%
Transport, Infrastructure and Roads 14% 19% 15% 13% 17% 16% 16% 10% 15%
Access to quality and affordable healthcare 8% 13% 10% 16% 16% 14% 14% 7% 13%
Extra-judicial killings 6% 6% 8% 12% 8% 10% 12% 10% 9%
Insecurity/crime 12% 11% 8% 6% 10% 4% 4% 8% 8%
Empowerment of youth 10% 7% 5% 6% 7% 8% 13% 8% 8%
Cost of doing business 8% 4% 5% 7% 6% 6% 7% 9% 7%
Poverty reduction 7% 5% 7% 4% 4% 5% 5% 6% 5%
Access to clean water 2% 16% 8% 1% 4% 4% 4% 1% 4%
Cost of farm inputs 2% – 3% 4% 5% 4% 3% 2% 4%
Women empowerment 6% 7% 3% 2% 4% 4% 3% 2% 3%
Equal distribution of resources 4% 2% 5% 1% 4% 4% 2% 6% 3%
Student protests 3% 2% 2% 2% 1% 1% 3% 5% 2%
Public participation 2% 2% 2% 1% 3% 2% 2% 2% 2%
Drug and substance abuse 3% 1% 2% 1% 2% 1% 1% 2% 2%
Alcoholism 1% 3% 3% 1% 2% 0.4% 2% 2% 2%
Ethnicity/Tribalism 2% 1% 2% 1% 0.4% 1% 3% 1% 1%
Environmental conservation 1% 2% 1% 0.3% 1% 2% 1% 3% 1%
Disaster management – 5% 1% 0.3% 1% 0.5% 0.4% 1% 1%
Issue Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 Over 55 Total
High cost of living 39% 41% 42% 38% 41% 38% 46% 40%
Unemployment 36% 35% 42% 37% 35% 32% 31% 36%
Access to quality and affordable education 30% 31% 30% 32% 30% 29% 35% 31%
SHIF/SHA issues 25% 30% 24% 27% 30% 28% 20% 27%
Corruption 28% 22% 27% 28% 23% 22% 22% 25%
Over taxation 21% 19% 19% 20% 22% 19% 11% 20%
Transport, Infrastructure and Roads 18% 13% 15% 14% 15% 17% 18% 15%
Access to quality and affordable healthcare 11% 15% 15% 12% 13% 12% 13% 13%
Extra-judicial killings 10% 8% 8% 9% 11% 8% 9% 9%
Insecurity/crime 10% 6% 6% 10% 7% 6% 7% 8%
Empowerment of youth 9% 7% 9% 8% 8% 8% 3% 8%
Cost of doing business 6% 7% 5% 7% 6% 7% 9% 7%
Poverty reduction 6% 5% 6% 5% 5% 5% 6% 5%
Access to clean water 4% 4% 4% 4% 3% 7% 5% 4%
Cost of farm inputs 4% 3% 2% 4% 3% 5% 6% 4%
Women empowerment 2% 5% 5% 3% 3% 4% 4% 3%
Equal distribution of resources 4% 3% 4% 3% 3% 5% 3% 3%
Student protests 3% 1% 3% 3% 1% 1% 3% 2%
Public participation 2% 2% 2% 1% 2% 5% 1% 2%
Drug and substance abuse 2% 2% 1% 2% 1% 1% 2% 2%
Alcoholism 2% 1% 2% 2% 1% 1% 2% 2%
Ethnicity/Tribalism 2% 1% 1% 1% 1% 3% 1% 1%
Environmental conservation 1% 1% 1% 2% 1% 0.3% 2% 1%
Disaster management 1% 1% – 1% 1% 2% 1% 1%

Perception of the Current Cost of Living in Kenya

On a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 is very low and 5 is very high, to what extent would you rate the current cost of living in Kenya? (n = 2,400)

5%

Very Low — 5%
Low — 8%
Average — 17%
High — 24%
Very High — 46%
Cost of Living Perception — Breakdown by Gender & Age
Rating Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 Over 55 Total
Very Low 4% 6% 4% 4% 7% 6% 3% 5%
Low 8% 7% 8% 8% 7% 6% 9% 8%
Average 18% 16% 20% 16% 19% 16% 9% 17%
High 25% 23% 25% 26% 23% 20% 23% 24%
Very High 44% 48% 43% 45% 44% 52% 56% 46%

Changes in Cost of Living: Now vs. One Year Ago

How would you compare the cost of living now and a year ago? (n = 2,400)

63%

Much higher than before — 63%
Somewhat higher than before — 16%
It has remained the same as before — 12%
It is lower — 5%
It is much lower than before — 4%
Cost of Living Change — Breakdowns

By region, gender, and age (n = 2,400)

Response Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
Much higher than before 64% 57% 66% 74% 60% 64% 57% 59% 63%
Somewhat higher than before 20% 19% 17% 11% 15% 14% 18% 20% 16%
It has remained the same as before 8% 13% 9% 11% 14% 10% 15% 13% 12%
It is lower 4% 6% 5% 1% 5% 8% 7% 1% 5%
It is much lower than before 3% 5% 3% 3% 5% 4% 3% 5% 4%
Don't Know/Refused to Answer 0.4% – 0.3% – 0.1% – – 1% 0.3%
Response Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 Over 55 Total
Much higher than before 59% 67% 61% 62% 63% 66% 66% 63%
Somewhat higher than before 17% 16% 17% 17% 16% 18% 11% 16%
It has remained the same as before 14% 10% 12% 12% 14% 8% 12% 12%
It is lower 7% 3% 4% 5% 4% 5% 6% 5%
It is much lower than before 4% 4% 6% 4% 3% 3% 5% 4%
Don't Know/Refused to Answer 0.2% 0.4% 0.4% 0.4% 0.3% – – 0.3%

Perceived Main Causes of High Cost of Living in Kenya

What do you believe is the main cause of the current high cost of living in Kenya? (n = 2,400)

40%

Taxes — 40%
Global Economic Factors (e.g. fuel prices, supply chain issues) — 19%
Government Policies — 16%
Corruption — 14%
Lack of Employment Opportunities — 6%
Don't Know — 3%
Poor Agricultural Productivity — 2%
Causes of High Cost of Living — Breakdowns

By region, gender, and age (n = 2,400)

Cause Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
Taxes 49% 39% 35% 41% 42% 44% 30% 43% 40%
Global Economic Factors (e.g. fuel prices, supply chain issues) 11% 25% 19% 20% 18% 21% 28% 12% 19%
Government Policies 13% 17% 13% 16% 16% 14% 20% 19% 16%
Corruption 13% 10% 19% 13% 14% 9% 16% 17% 14%
Lack of Employment Opportunities 6% 3% 8% 3% 6% 9% 3% 5% 6%
Poor Agricultural Productivity 3% 2% 2% 2% 1% 2% 2% 1% 2%
Don't know 4% 4% 3% 4% 3% 1% 1% 4% 3%
Cause Male Female 18-26 27-35 36-45 46-55 Over 55 Total
Taxes 41% 39% 39% 45% 41% 32% 33% 40%
Global Economic Factors (e.g. fuel prices, supply chain issues) 19% 19% 22% 17% 20% 22% 21% 19%
Government Policies 14% 18% 15% 14% 17% 20% 14% 16%
Corruption 16% 13% 15% 14% 15% 13% 16% 14%
Lack of Employment Opportunities 6% 5% 5% 7% 4% 5% 7% 6%
Poor Agricultural Productivity 2% 2% 2% 1% 2% 3% 3% 2%
Don't know 2% 4% 2% 3% 2% 5% 7% 3%
Survey Demographics

Age distribution of respondents

18-26 years
12%
27-35 years
37%
36-45 years
31%
46-55 years
13%
55+ years
7%

Gender of respondents

50%

Male — 50%
Female — 50%

Religion of respondents

72%

Protestant — 72%
Catholic — 18%
Islam — 8%
None — 1%

Employment status of respondents

Self-employed
38%
Unemployed
31%
Casually employed
20%
Formally employed
11%
Prefer not to answer
1%

Level of education of respondents

Secondary
49%
Tertiary College
20%
Primary
19%
University/Postgraduate
11%
None
1%
Voice of the People Poll – August 2025 · InfoTrak Research & Consulting, 2025

]]> https://www.infotrakresearch.com/infotrak-voice-of-the-people-poll-september-2025/feed/ 0 2617 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/testing-the-feasibility-of-solar-cooling-for-kenyan-dairy-farmers/ https://www.infotrakresearch.com/testing-the-feasibility-of-solar-cooling-for-kenyan-dairy-farmers/#respond Wed, 11 Jun 2025 11:33:00 +0000 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/?p=2601

Testing the feasibility of solar cooling for Kenyan dairy farmers

A pilot group of dairy farmers across three Kenyan counties have been testing the impact of solar refrigeration on reducing waste and milk spoilage. The three-month pilot showed dramatic reductions in product loss combined with increases in farm productivity and income.  The pilot was run by our long-term partner SureChill.  

SureChill fridge pilot

SureChill has more than a decade of experience in medical refrigeration, with more than 30,000 fridges installed in 75 countries. We have supported SureChill since 2020 to expand into the domestic and small business sectors. Our support is co-funded with UK aid from the UK government through the Transforming Energy Access platform. As part of the domestic and small business transition, 20 dairy farmers across Nakuru, Bomet and Kiambu counties piloted using the SureChill fridge and researchers tracked impact.

Get the full report
]]> https://www.infotrakresearch.com/testing-the-feasibility-of-solar-cooling-for-kenyan-dairy-farmers/feed/ 0 2601 INFOTRAK COUNTYTRAK REPORT 2025- ELECTED LEADERS RATING https://www.infotrakresearch.com/infotrak-countytrak-report-2025-elected-leaders-rating/ https://www.infotrakresearch.com/infotrak-countytrak-report-2025-elected-leaders-rating/#respond Thu, 13 Feb 2025 10:58:47 +0000 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/?p=2590
CountyTrak 2024 · InfoTrak Research & Consulting

Elected Leaders Performance Index

A nationwide performance survey covering all 47 counties, 290 constituencies, and 1,450 wards across Kenya — rating Members of Parliament, Senators, and County Women Representatives on a 1–10 scale. Conducted October – December 2024.

47
Counties
290
Constituencies
1,450
Wards
59,600
Respondents

The CountyTrak Methodology

About the Index

This Index is the first of its kind and magnitude in Kenya. It provides the Kenyans and other interested stakeholders with robust statistics by ward on the perception of constituency residents over Member of Parliament performance.

Data Collection

Conducted between October – December 2024 across all 47 counties, 290 constituencies and 1,450 wards, with an overall sample of 59,600. Each constituency was treated as an individual universe and assigned a cluster sample which ranged between 200 and 451 respondents.

Within each constituency, sampling frames were designed using population proportionate to size, guided by the latest IEBC Voter register, and catered for demographics such as age and gender. Data was collected through Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI) and analysed using SPSS.

Rating Scale

The final questionnaire used a 1–10 Likert scale where 1 was very poor and 10 was excellent. Residents were asked to rate their MPs, Senators, and County Women Representatives on overall performance based on the scale.

The average rating by all respondents from each constituency/county determined the final rating of that elected leader.

The Likert Scale Defined

Residents rated their MPs, Senators, and County Women Representatives on a 1–10 scale, where 1 was very poor and 10 was excellent. The average rating per constituency/county determined each leader’s final score.

1–2
Poor
Needs urgent attention
3–4
Average
Needs improvement
5–6
Good
Keep it up
7–8
Excellent
Work towards excellence · Well done
9–10
Best Practice
Retain as best practice

Aggregated leader scores throughout this report are expressed as percentages and grade on the following bands:

E
1%–39%
D
40%–49%
C
50%–59%
B
60%–69%
A
70%–100%

What Voters Value Most

Which are the top 2 most important factors you consider when rating an elected leader?

Senators Performance Rating

Top 25 ranking, regional leaders, and the 2023 vs 2024 trend▾
Top 25 Senators Ranking

Full county-by-county senator scores for 2024. Counties tied on score share a rank, so the list runs to 31 entries.

Top 3 Senators by Region

The three highest-scoring senators within each of Kenya’s eight regions.

Top 10 Senators: 2023 & 2024

How the leading senator scores shifted year-on-year.

2023

2024

Women Representatives Performance Rating

Public roles, top 25 ranking, regional leaders, trend, and reasons for decline▾
Primary Roles of Women Representatives

What is the primary role of a Woman Representative?

Top 25 Women Reps Ranking

Full county-by-county Women Representative scores for 2024. Counties tied on score share a rank, so the list runs to 31 entries.

Top 3 Women Representatives by Region

The three highest-scoring Women Representatives within each region.

Top 10 Women Representatives: 2023 & 2024

How the leading Women Representative scores shifted year-on-year.

2023

2024

Reasons for the Decline in Women Rep Performance

Why do you think the performance rating of the Women Representative position has declined significantly in comparison to other elective positions?

Members of Parliament Performance Rating

Top 100 ranking, the 2023 vs 2024 trend, and the top 3 MPs in every county▾
Top 100 MPs Ranking

Full constituency-by-constituency MP scores for 2024. Constituencies tied on score share a rank, so the list runs to 118 entries.

Top 10 MPs: 2023 & 2024

How the leading MP scores shifted year-on-year.

2023

2024

Top 3 MPs by County

The three highest-scoring constituency MPs within each of the 47 counties.

Sample Distribution by County

Cluster sample size and margin of error for all 47 counties▾

CountyTrak sample size (n) and margin of error at 95% confidence, by county.

CountyTrak Elected Leaders Performance Index 2024 · InfoTrak Research & Consulting← All Reports

]]> https://www.infotrakresearch.com/infotrak-countytrak-report-2025-elected-leaders-rating/feed/ 0 2590 THE 2025 INFOTRAK COUNTYTRAK REPORT https://www.infotrakresearch.com/auto-draft/ https://www.infotrakresearch.com/auto-draft/#respond Wed, 12 Feb 2025 13:19:07 +0000 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/?p=2584
← All Reports
CountyTrak · InfoTrak Research & Consulting · October–December 2024

CountyTrak Performance Index 2024

A syndicated County Performance Index tracking citizens’ perception of county governments against the devolved functions — covering all 47 counties, 290 constituencies and 1,450 wards of Kenya.

47
Counties
290
Constituencies
1,450
Wards
36,200
Respondents
43%
Overall 2024 Index

Methodology & Survey Coverage

How the index was built, and where the sample came from

▾

About the Index

“This Index is the first of its kind and magnitude in Kenya. It provides the county governments and other interested stakeholders with robust statistics by ward on the perception of county residents over county governments’ performance of the devolved functions.”

Data Collection

Conducted between October – December 2024 covering all 47 counties, 290 constituencies and 1,450 wards, with an overall sample of 36,200. Each county was treated as an individual universe and assigned a cluster sample ranging between 600 and 2,000 respondents, guided by population and ward count.

Sampling frames within each county were designed using population proportionate to size, guided by census data, and catered for demographics such as age and gender. Data was collected through Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI) and analysed using SPSS.

How the Index Is Built

The CountyTrak tool consisted of twelve core functions with thirty-three key performance indicators and five approval rating questions, also covering Public Participation, Planning, and Management of County Resources. Residents rated each indicator on a 1–10 Likert scale, where 1 was very poor and 10 was excellent. The mean was computed for each sub-indicator to get the Index for that specific KPI, and the Overall County Performance Index was then computed by taking the average of the KPIs.

The 12 County Functions Covered

Also covered: Public Participation, Planning & Management of County Resources.

Sample Distribution by County

CountyTrak sample size (n) and margin of error at 95% confidence, by county. Search to find your county.

County Sample (n) Margin of Error (±, 95% CI)

Perceptions of County Progress

Better, worse or the same as before devolution — and vs. the previous administration

▾

Status of the County

Focusing on development, how would you compare your county of residence now and before the introduction of devolution in 2013?

Status of the County by County, 2024

Search by county.

County Better than Before Worse than Before Same as Before

Comparison of Current & Previous County Government

Still on the same issue of development, how would you compare the current county government and the last county government (2017–2023)?

Current vs. Previous County Government by County, 2024

Search by county.

County Better than Previous Worse than Previous Same as Previous

2024 Function Performance Rankings

How each of the 12 devolved functions ranked and rated, 2015–2024

▾

Using a scale of 1–10, where 1 is extremely poor and 10 is excellent, how would you rate your county government’s performance with regard to each devolved function? Sorted by 2024 rating.

Function Rank 2024 Rating 2024 Rank 2023 Rating 2023 Rank 2020 Rating 2020 Rank 2015 Rating 2015

Overall CountyTrak Index 2024: 43% (2023: 49%, 2020: 47%, 2015: 56%).

Performance by County Function

County-level rankings, 2024 rating and most-improved counties for all 12 functions

▾

Agriculture

  • Making it easy for farmers to grow and sell their crops, livestock or fish
  • Making food more accessible and affordable to you and your family
  • Ensuring there is proper management of livestock diseases (foot and mouth, anthrax, Newcastle disease, rabies etc.) and disposal of dead animals

Mean Index 2024: 43%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Health

  • Making it easier for you and your family to get good quality & affordable medical treatment when you need it
  • Ensuring county health facilities are well equipped with medical personnel, equipment and medicine
  • Ensuring that you receive information on how to stay healthy and avoid diseases
  • Ensuring there are adequate sanitation facilities (pit latrines, public toilets) in your area

Mean Index 2024: 42%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Education

  • Ensuring there are enough Nursery/ECD centres in your area with good facilities & teachers
  • Ensuring there are enough village polytechnics/County Technical Training Institutes with good facilities and instructors
  • Ensuring needy, vulnerable and gifted/talented children receive bursaries fairly

Mean Index 2024: 46%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Roads & Transport

  • Improving and maintaining road networks within your locality (new roads, grading/maintenance, culverts/bridges)
  • Ensuring public transport (matatus, buses, taxis, boda bodas) is well organised and traffic well managed
  • Installing and maintaining street lighting in county urban and market areas

Mean Index 2024: 42%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Energy

  • Ensuring access to affordable energy for lighting and cooking (electricity, gas, kerosene, etc.)
  • Promoting the use of clean energy sources such as wind, solar, biogas etc.

Mean Index 2024: 44%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Trade & Tourism

  • Increasing trade in your county through the development of markets
  • Reducing the cost of doing business through incentives such as lower taxation and levies
  • Ensuring trade licenses are issued in a simple manner; promoting cooperative societies/SACCOs
  • Attracting investment and promoting local tourism through hotels, resorts and tourist sites

Mean Index 2024: 42%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Housing, Lands & Settlement

  • Resolving land disputes
  • Facilitating issuance of title deeds to county residents
  • Ensuring the urban areas in your county are well organised

Mean Index 2024: 42%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Water Management & Sanitation

  • Ensuring access to clean and safe water whenever you need it
  • Constructing and maintaining drainage systems and sewer systems in towns and urban centres
  • Ensuring proper garbage collection, management and disposal
  • Ensuring the county is well prepared to manage fires, accidents, floods & other calamities

Mean Index 2024: 43%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Environment & Natural Resources

  • Protecting and conserving county natural resources such as forests and water resources
  • Actively involving residents in environmental conservation e.g. tree planting and gabion building

Mean Index 2024: 46%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Culture & Sports

  • Promoting the establishment of recreational parks, beaches & recreational facilities
  • Promotion of county cultural activities and facilities
  • Promoting sports through stadia and support for county sports activities
  • Establishing and maintaining county museums and libraries

Mean Index 2024: 43%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Social Services

  • Women: entrepreneurship & leadership training, women cooperatives
  • Youth (18-35yrs): empowerment activities to alleviate unemployment
  • PLWDs and OVCs: empowerment activities and support mechanisms for orphans & vulnerable children
  • The elderly (over 65): ensuring they are well looked after & supported financially

Mean Index 2024: 46%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

County Planning & Development

  • Developing county plans that take into consideration residents’ needs and desires
  • Educating and involving county residents in the preparation of county development plans

Mean Index 2024: 43%

Rank 2024 County Mean Index 2024

Most improved counties, 2023 → 2024 (points gained):

Overall County Status Index (CSI) & Leadership

Top-ranked counties, most improved, and the governors leading them

▾

Overall Index Top Counties, 2024

Composite CSI rank across all 12 devolved functions. Search by county.

CSI Rank 2024 County CSI 2024

Most Improved Counties, CSI 2023 → 2024

Position County Rank 2023 Rank 2024 Change in Ranks

Reasons for Decline in Performance of County Governments

Over the past 10 years, county governments have progressively received lower performance ratings. In your opinion, what are the main reasons for this decline?

Top Counties by Year

CSI rank, index and governor at the time, by survey year.

2015

2020

2023

2024

Repeat & Second-Term Governors in the Top 25 (2024)

Repeat Governors

Second-Term Governors

Women-Led Counties in the Top 25 (2024)

Rank 2024 County Governor Index 2024

Public Participation

Also assessed: how counties involve residents in planning & management of resources

▾

County-level index on public participation in planning and management of county resources. Search by county. Average across all counties: 46%.

Rank County Index
CountyTrak Performance Index 2024 · InfoTrak Research & Consulting← All Reports

]]> https://www.infotrakresearch.com/auto-draft/feed/ 0 2584 NATIONWIDE PERCEPTION STUDY DEC 16 2024 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/nationwide-perception-study-dec-16-2024/ https://www.infotrakresearch.com/nationwide-perception-study-dec-16-2024/#respond Mon, 16 Dec 2024 14:00:09 +0000 https://www.infotrakresearch.com/?p=2573
Infotrak Research & Consulting · December 2024

Nationwide Perception Study

A nationwide opinion survey commissioned by the Electoral Law and Governance Institute for Africa (ELGIA) under the Kenya Election Support Program (KESP), assessing public trust in democratic institutions, participation in governance processes, and key issues of concern ahead of the 2027 general elections.

2,400
Respondents
47
Counties Covered
±2%
Margin of Error
97%
Response Rate

Methodology

Survey Background

The Electoral Law and Governance Institute for Africa (ELGIA) is currently implementing the Kenya Election Support Program (KESP), which seeks to strengthen the electoral framework and address operational challenges within key institutions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

As part of the KESP Program, ELGIA commissioned Infotrak Research and Consulting to conduct this opinion survey to identify the factors influencing public trust in democratic institutions.

In Kenya, public trust in various governance and democratic institutions has been eroded over time, hence the urgent need to rebuild confidence in these institutions. The findings of this survey will provide critical insights to restore public confidence and guide governance reforms in the country.

Survey Objectives

1. To assess the evolving dynamics of public trust in institutions and democratic processes, with a particular emphasis on the electoral governance landscape, by analyzing current political trends, interests, incentives, and potential risks associated with various institutions.

2. To investigate public responses at the national level to emerging trends in trust and political dynamics, with a particular focus on the impact of recent public protests on reform efforts and the underlying issues of discontent among Kenyans, especially the youth.

3. To draw scientific conclusions on the impact of emerging public trust and political dynamics to the Kenyan society and make recommendations that can progress KESP interventions at various levels.

Methodology

Fieldwork was conducted between 16th – 30th November 2024.

A three-pronged approach was adopted: desk research, quantitative interviews, and qualitative key informant interviews (KIIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs).

The survey universe was persons aged 18 years and above. The quantitative survey targeted a sample of 2,400 respondents, proportionately allocated across all 47 counties in 8 regions to be representative of the Kenyan 18+ population, with Rift Valley taking the highest sample and North Eastern the least.

The quantitative survey had a margin of error of ±2% at a 95% degree of confidence, and achieved a 97% response rate.

Data was processed and analyzed using SPSS 26 statistical software due to its high accuracy and reliability.

Region 2019 Census Population (M) 2019 Census 18+ Population (M) Regional Adult Proportion Target Sample
Coast 4.3 2.3 9% 217
North Eastern 2.5 1.1 4% 95
Eastern 6.8 3.9 15% 360
Central 5.5 3.4 13% 321
Rift Valley 12.8 6.6 26% 614
Western 5.0 2.5 10% 231
Nyanza 6.3 3.2 12% 295
Nairobi 4.4 2.9 11% 267
Total 47.6 25.7 100% 2400
Qualitative Research Breakdown

In addition to the 2,400-respondent quantitative survey, the study included Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs).

Region Location Youth (18-35 yrs) Adults (35+ yrs) Total
Coast Mombasa 1 (18-24 yrs) 1 2
North Eastern Garissa 1 (25-35 yrs) – 1
Eastern Machakos – 1 1
Central Nyeri 1 (18-24 yrs) – 1
Rift Valley Eldoret 1 (25-35 yrs) 1 2
Western Kakamega 1 (18-24 yrs) – 1
Nyanza Kisumu 1 (25-35 yrs) 1 2
Nairobi Nairobi 1 (18-24 yrs) 1 2
Total 7 5 12

3 Relevant Government Institutions

KIIs conducted with representatives of relevant government institutions.

10 Governance Experts & Analysts

Governance experts, political analysts/academicians, political party representatives, and CSOs.

14 Community & Civil Society Voices

Community leaders, religious leaders, youth representatives, CSOs, and protest movement leaders, among others. Total KIIs conducted: 27.

Perceptions of and Participation in Democratic Processes: Key Takeaways

Skepticism Toward the IEBC

Public skepticism towards the IEBC, with 54% lacking confidence and only 26% expressing trust, highlights significant institutional challenges.

Polarized Views on Election Outcomes

Polarized perceptions on electoral outcomes, with 33% believing government-preferred candidates always win, underscore mistrust in the electoral process. This mistrust is compounded by citizenry observation of external interference of the judiciary and police, where allegations of corruption and lack of independence persist, weakening the credibility of these institutions and eroding public confidence in good governance.

Barriers to Voter Registration

The major factors preventing the citizenry from registering as voters include lack of ID cards (41%), busy schedules (16%), far registration centers (16%), and lack of trust in the electoral processes, among others.

Why Kenyans Did Not Vote in the 2022 General Election

Why did you not participate in the previous 2022 general election?

I was not interested in the elections
27%
I was busy/sick
25%
I did not think my vote would count
25%
I was not a registered voter then
20%
I had lost my identification document
14%
Not in the country/area of voting
5%
Refused to Answer
3%
Others
1%

The major reasons a significant proportion of Kenyans did not vote in the 2022 general elections include disinterest in the elections (27%), being indisposed/busy on voting day (25%), and lack of trust that their vote would count (25%). n = 229 (those who did not vote).

Factors Preventing Citizens From Registering as Voters

What would you say are the main factors preventing people like yourself from registering as voters?

Lack of National Identity Documents
41%
Busy schedules
16%
The registration centers are far away
16%
Lack of trust in the electoral processes
15%
Lack of information about voter registration
10%
Disinterest in the elections
10%
I don't know
4%

n = 177 (those who have not registered as voters)

Public Perceptions of Elections Outcome

On a scale of 1-5, where 1 is strongly disagree and 5 is strongly agree, to what extent do you agree with the following statements regarding elections in Kenya? n = 2400

Response The government's preferred candidate will always be declared the winner The popular candidate with majority votes will be declared the winner, regardless of government
Strongly disagree 26% 29%
Somewhat disagree 15% 15%
Neither Agree nor Disagree 11% 14%
Somewhat agree 11% 12%
Strongly agree 33% 25%
Don't know 5% 4%

Surveyed respondents were divided on whether elections in Kenya reflect the popular vote. Whilst 33% strongly agreed that the government's preferred candidate would always win regardless of the vote, another 25% believed that popular candidates would prevail despite government preference.

Confidence in the IEBC to Conduct Free and Fair Elections in 2027

Do you have confidence in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to conduct free and fair general elections in 2027? n = 2400

26%

Yes — 26%
No — 54%
Unsure — 21%

Only 26% of the surveyed respondents expressed confidence in the IEBC to conduct free and fair elections in 2027. A majority (54%) were however skeptical that the electoral body will conduct the 2027 elections in a free and fair manner.

Confidence in the IEBC — By Region
Region Yes No Unsure
Coast 38% 44% 18%
North Eastern 28% 51% 21%
Eastern 25% 58% 17%
Central 20% 55% 25%
Rift Valley 27% 49% 24%
Western 28% 55% 17%
Nyanza 23% 59% 18%
Nairobi 19% 59% 21%
Total 26% 54% 21%

Reasons for Having Confidence in the IEBC

If yes, why do you have confidence in the IEBC to conduct free and fair general elections in 2027? n = 619

IEBC is an independent body
48%
Improved transparency
42%
They have done a good job in the past
38%
The judiciary/courts will come in incase there are issues arising later
15%
The commission keeps the public updated
9%
New commissioners will be appointed
1%
I just have hopes that they will be fair
1%
Others
1%
Reasons for Having Confidence in the IEBC — By Region
Reason Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
IEBC is an independent body 35% 44% 49% 44% 50% 69% 43% 52% 48%
Improved transparency 39% 33% 37% 36% 44% 35% 57% 50% 42%
They have done a good job in the past 18% 15% 46% 52% 40% 46% 43% 33% 38%
The judiciary/courts will come in incase there are issues arising later 6% 7% 22% 12% 11% 28% 22% 12% 15%
The commission keeps the public updated 13% 11% 12% 6% 6% 8% 9% 12% 9%
New commissioners will be appointed 5% 7% – 2% 1% – – – 1%
I just have hopes that they will be fair 1% – 1% – 1% – – 2% 1%
Others 2% 4% 1% 2% – – 1% 4% 1%
Reasons for Having Confidence in the IEBC — By Gender & Age
Reason Male Female 18-26 Years 27-35 Years 36-45 Years 46-55 Years Over 55 Years Total
IEBC is an independent body 48% 49% 50% 50% 50% 43% 36% 48%
Improved transparency 40% 44% 41% 41% 50% 31% 47% 42%
They have done a good job in the past 38% 38% 39% 41% 38% 27% 34% 38%
The judiciary/courts will come in incase there are issues arising later 15% 15% 19% 13% 15% 16% 11% 15%
The commission keeps the public updated 9% 10% 6% 8% 10% 18% 13% 9%
New commissioners will be appointed 2% 1% – 2% 2% 2% 4% 1%
I just have hopes that they will be fair – 1% 1% 0.4% 1% – – 1%
Others 1% 1% 1% 1% 2% 2% – 1%

Reasons for Lacking Confidence in the IEBC

If no, why don't you have confidence in the IEBC to conduct free and fair general elections in 2027? n = 1296

Lack of transparency
60%
There are corrupt officials
47%
Past irregularities
47%
Lack of independence/influence from the government
19%
Reasons for Lacking Confidence in the IEBC — By Region
Reason Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
Lack of transparency 37% 52% 61% 62% 62% 67% 57% 64% 60%
There are corrupt officials 46% 41% 41% 43% 52% 50% 51% 44% 47%
Past irregularities 47% 43% 49% 44% 44% 59% 47% 43% 47%
Lack of independence/influence from the government 17% 7% 17% 24% 21% 23% 13% 20% 19%
Reasons for Lacking Confidence in the IEBC — By Gender & Age
Reason Male Female 18-26 Years 27-35 Years 36-45 Years 46-55 Years Over 55 Years Total
Lack of transparency 58% 61% 56% 60% 64% 63% 52% 60%
There are corrupt officials 47% 47% 47% 50% 44% 38% 41% 47%
Past irregularities 46% 47% 49% 45% 46% 49% 47% 47%
Lack of independence/influence from the government 20% 18% 21% 20% 16% 19% 14% 19%

Perceived Challenges Facing the IEBC

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the IEBC today? n = 2400

External interference
39%
Corruption
38%
Lack of commissioners
38%
Inadequate funding
23%
Inadequate resources (equipment and personnel)
13%
Lack of transparency
0.5%
Tribalism
0.3%
They have failed in the past
0.2%
Don't know/Refused to answer
2%
Perceived Challenges Facing the IEBC — By Region
Challenge Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
External interference 32% 33% 39% 39% 40% 40% 41% 41% 39%
Corruption 40% 46% 41% 41% 36% 36% 35% 39% 38%
Lack of commissioners 21% 29% 42% 39% 43% 43% 35% 39% 38%
Inadequate funding 19% 13% 18% 20% 27% 31% 27% 21% 23%
Inadequate resources (equipment and personnel) 11% 12% 12% 12% 15% 12% 13% 14% 13%
Lack of transparency – 1% 0.3% 1% 0.3% 1% 1% – 0.5%
Tribalism 1% – – – 0.3% – 0.3% 1% 0.3%
They have failed in the past 0.5% – 1% 0.3% 0.2% – – – 0.2%
Don't know/Refused to answer 5% 3% 2% 4% 1% 3% – 3% 2%
Perceived Challenges Facing the IEBC — By Gender & Age
Challenge Male Female 18-26 Years 27-35 Years 36-45 Years 46-55 Years Over 55 Years Total
External interference 39% 39% 33% 42% 40% 43% 28% 39%
Corruption 38% 39% 43% 40% 31% 34% 41% 38%
Lack of commissioners 38% 39% 35% 39% 40% 43% 36% 38%
Inadequate funding 22% 24% 23% 22% 27% 22% 16% 23%
Inadequate resources (equipment and personnel) 14% 12% 10% 14% 14% 14% 10% 13%
Lack of transparency 1% 0% 1% 0.5% 0.4% 0.4% 1% 0.5%
Tribalism 0.3% 0.3% 0.4% 0.4% – 0.4% – 0.3%
They have failed in the past 0.3% 0.2% 0.2% 0.4% – – – 0.2%
Don't know/Refused to answer 2% 3% 2% 2% 2% 2% 5% 2%

Needed Interventions to Improve Trust in Electoral Processes

In your opinion, what should be done to improve Kenyans' trust in our electoral processes? n = 2400

Ensuring independence and impartiality of the IEBC
40%
Ensuring elections are free, fair, and transparent
39%
Provision of civic education and sensitization on electoral processes
29%
Prevention of vote rigging
29%
Increased security to prevent election related violence
24%
Improved monitoring of elections
15%
Fast and fair resolution of electoral disputes
8%
Improving voter registration processes
7%
Use the latest technology in voting
0.3%
Others
1%
Don't know/Refused to answer
1%
Needed Interventions to Improve Trust — By Region
Intervention Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
Ensuring independence and impartiality of the IEBC 27% 27% 34% 35% 44% 46% 47% 50% 40%
Ensuring elections are free, fair, and transparent 34% 59% 49% 39% 36% 38% 33% 36% 39%
Provision of civic education and sensitization on electoral processes 22% 19% 28% 27% 28% 36% 33% 29% 29%
Prevention of vote rigging 24% 20% 31% 34% 31% 35% 21% 22% 29%
Increased security to prevent election related violence 20% 15% 22% 25% 26% 26% 30% 21% 24%
Improved monitoring of elections 17% 13% 17% 17% 12% 12% 15% 16% 15%
Fast and fair resolution of electoral disputes 8% 7% 7% 6% 8% 9% 8% 10% 8%
Improving voter registration processes 9% 5% 7% 9% 7% 7% 5% 8% 7%
Use the latest technology in voting – 1% 0.3% – 0.3% 0.4% – 1% 0.3%
Others 0.5% 1% 1% 1% 0.5% 0.4% 0.3% 1% 1%
Don't know/Refused to answer 3% 4% 1% 1% 1% 1% 2% 2% 1%
Needed Interventions to Improve Trust — By Gender & Age
Intervention Male Female 18-26 Years 27-35 Years 36-45 Years 46-55 Years Over 55 Years Total
Ensuring independence and impartiality of the IEBC 40% 40% 36% 40% 44% 48% 32% 40%
Ensuring elections are free, fair, and transparent 39% 39% 37% 40% 36% 41% 40% 39%
Provision of civic education and sensitization on electoral processes 28% 29% 25% 29% 31% 30% 27% 29%
Prevention of vote rigging 28% 29% 26% 32% 30% 21% 20% 29%
Increased security to prevent election related violence 23% 26% 25% 26% 24% 22% 21% 24%
Improved monitoring of elections 16% 14% 15% 15% 15% 14% 11% 15%
Fast and fair resolution of electoral disputes 8% 8% 6% 9% 9% 7% 8% 8%
Improving voter registration processes 7% 7% 6% 8% 7% 8% 8% 7%
Use the latest technology in voting 1% 0.1% – 0.4% 0.4% 1% – 0.3%
Others 1% 0.3% 1% 1% 0.4% 0.4% – 1%
Don't know/Refused to answer 1% 2% 2% 1% 1% 2% 2% 1%

Voices from the Ground: Trust in Institutions

KII Respondent

…they give empty promises which are never fulfilled…

KII Respondent

…The waning public trust in our institutions is as a result of, one; over promising and two; failure to fulfil those promises. I think the current leaders came into office through many promises. Some of them were realistic, some unrealistic…

KII Respondent

…The law exists to guard against electoral malpractices but IEBC does not seem to invoke those laws…

Trust in Key Governance and Democratic Institutions

The following institutions play a crucial role in our country's governance and democratic processes. On a scale of 1-10, where 1 is "Do not trust at all" and 10 is "A lot of trust", how much trust do you have in their ability to fulfill their mandate effectively? n = 2400

Institution No trust at all Little trust Somewhat/Moderate trust A lot of trust Don't know
The Media 5% 7% 68% 15% 5%
Religious Leaders 8% 14% 63% 7% 7%
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) 9% 15% 47% 4% 25%
The Judiciary 30% 27% 34% 2% 7%
The Police 33% 28% 33% 2% 4%
The Senate 28% 27% 34% 2% 10%
The Opposition Leaders 23% 27% 34% 2% 15%
Office of Auditor General (OAG) 16% 22% 28% 2% 33%
The Executive (President, Deputy President, Cabinet) 37% 29% 28% 1% 4%
The National Assembly 37% 31% 23% 1% 7%
The Office of Registrar of Political Parties 15% 20% 22% 1% 41%
Political Parties 18% 27% 29% 1% 26%
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) 16% 26% 24% 1% 33%
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) 27% 23% 21% 1% 28%
Political Parties Disputes Tribunal 13% 20% 20% 1% 46%
Public Service Commission (PSC) 18% 23% 26% 1% 33%

There is a trust deficit in nearly all key governance and democratic institutions in the country. The Media, Religious Leaders, and CSOs enjoy the strongest moderate-to-high trust, while the Judiciary, Police, Executive, National Assembly, and IEBC show the highest shares of respondents reporting no trust at all.

Critical Reforms in Restoring Trust in Kenya's Electoral Institutions

What reforms do you think are most critical for restoring trust in Kenya's electoral institutions such as IEBC, Judiciary, Office of the Registrar of Political Parties? n = 2400

Strengthening anti-corruption measures
50%
Improving electoral transparency
45%
Strengthening the institutions' independence
34%
Get qualified people in the institutions
22%
Improving public service delivery
22%
Embrace technology/digitalization
0.1%
Kenyans/Citizens to elect the IEBC chair
0.1%
Others
1%
Don't know/Refused to answer
2%

Surveyed respondents cited strengthening anti-corruption measures (50%) and improving electoral transparency (45%) as the top reforms to restore public trust in governance and democratic institutions. Strengthening institutional independence was cited by 34%, while getting qualified people into the institutions and improving public service delivery were each cited by 22%.

Critical Reforms in Restoring Trust — By Region
Reform Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
Strengthening anti-corruption measures 36% 43% 39% 45% 55% 54% 56% 59% 50%
Improving electoral transparency 32% 32% 52% 53% 44% 45% 42% 42% 45%
Strengthening the institutions' independence 23% 34% 36% 38% 35% 39% 34% 33% 34%
Get qualified people in the institutions 23% 18% 25% 29% 23% 14% 21% 21% 22%
Improving public service delivery 21% 24% 24% 18% 22% 26% 22% 17% 22%
Embrace technology/digitalization – 1% – – 0.2% – – 0.4% 0.1%
Kenyans/Citizens to elect the IEBC chair – – – – – – – 1% 0.1%
Others 0.5% 1% 1% 0.3% 1% 0.4% 1% 1% 1%
Don't know/Refused to answer 4% 1% 1% 1% 1% 2% 1% 3% 2%
Critical Reforms in Restoring Trust — By Gender & Age
Reform Male Female 18-26 Years 27-35 Years 36-45 Years 46-55 Years Over 55 Years Total
Strengthening anti-corruption measures 47% 51% 43% 51% 52% 53% 47% 50%
Improving electoral transparency 43% 46% 46% 46% 41% 44% 38% 45%
Strengthening the institutions' independence 35% 34% 35% 36% 35% 30% 25% 34%
Get qualified people in the institutions 22% 23% 22% 25% 17% 23% 19% 22%
Improving public service delivery 21% 22% 20% 23% 18% 26% 23% 22%
Embrace technology/digitalization 0.3% – – – 0.4% 0.4% – 0.1%
Kenyans/Citizens to elect the IEBC chair – 0.2% – – 0.4% – – 0.1%
Others 1% 0.3% 1% 1% 1% – 1% 1%
Don't know/Refused to answer 2% 1% 1% 2% 2% 1% 2% 2%

Whether Kenyans' Voice Can Influence Government's Decision Making

Do you feel that your voice can influence government decision making? n = 2400

36%

Yes — 36%
No — 55%
Not sure — 9%

A majority (55%) don't feel that their voices can influence the government's decision-making. Only 36% believe that Kenyans' voices can influence government decision making.

Voice Influencing Government Decision Making — By Region
Region Yes No Not sure
Coast 36% 52% 12%
North Eastern 32% 56% 13%
Eastern 35% 58% 7%
Central 36% 56% 8%
Rift Valley 34% 55% 11%
Western 41% 56% 3%
Nyanza 37% 54% 9%
Nairobi 37% 57% 6%
Total 36% 55% 9%
Voice Influencing Government Decision Making — By Gender & Age
Group Yes No Not sure
Male 39% 54% 8%
Female 34% 57% 9%
18-26 Years 39% 52% 9%
27-35 Years 36% 56% 7%
36-45 Years 34% 56% 9%
46-55 Years 32% 60% 9%
Over 55 Years 33% 53% 14%
Total 36% 55% 9%

Involvement in Public Participation

Within the last one year, have you been involved in any public participation forum to give your views on governance processes such as development, legislation, and budget making? n = 2400

21%

Yes — 21%
No — 75%
I can't remember — 3%

In the last one year, a majority (75%) of Kenyans across all regions have not been involved in any public participation forum. Only 21% have participated in public participation forums to give their views on governance processes such as legislation and budget making.

Involvement in Public Participation — By Region
Region Yes No I can't remember
Coast 24% 74% 2%
North Eastern 20% 75% 5%
Eastern 18% 76% 6%
Central 23% 73% 4%
Rift Valley 19% 78% 3%
Western 22% 76% 2%
Nyanza 25% 73% 2%
Nairobi 22% 77% 1%
Total 21% 75% 3%
Involvement in Public Participation — By Gender & Age
Group Yes No I can't remember
Male 25% 72% 3%
Female 17% 79% 3%
18-26 Years 20% 76% 4%
27-35 Years 21% 75% 4%
36-45 Years 22% 76% 2%
46-55 Years 25% 73% 2%
Over 55 Years 23% 75% 1%
Total 21% 75% 3%

Conveners of Public Participation Forums

If yes, who was the convener of the public participation forum? n = 514 (those involved in public participation)

County Government Executive
28%
County Assembly
23%
Non-Governmental Organisation
20%
National Government
19%
Elected Leader i.e. MCA, MP etc
13%
Parliament (Senate or National Assembly)
11%
Civil Society Organisation
8%
I can't remember
3%
Others
1%

Most public participation forums were convened by either the county government executive (28%), county assemblies (23%), or NGOs (20%).

Conveners of Public Participation Forums — By Region
Convener Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
County Government Executive 25% 37% 33% 24% 31% 35% 29% 14% 28%
County Assembly 21% 16% 29% 23% 24% 20% 25% 20% 23%
Non-Governmental Organisation 21% 21% 27% 35% 17% 14% 15% 8% 20%
National Government 19% 11% 14% 20% 22% 20% 24% 17% 19%
Elected Leader i.e. MCA, MP etc 17% 11% 5% 11% 8% 22% 17% 19% 13%
Parliament (Senate or National Assembly) 4% – 15% 7% 10% 10% 16% 20% 11%
Civil Society Organisation 13% 16% 9% 7% 5% 4% 5% 15% 8%
I can't remember – – 2% 3% 6% 2% 1% 7% 3%
Others – – – – 1% – 1% 3% 1%
Conveners of Public Participation Forums — By Gender & Age
Convener Male Female 18-26 Years 27-35 Years 36-45 Years 46-55 Years Over 55 Years Total
County Government Executive 27% 30% 25% 28% 34% 25% 29% 28%
County Assembly 27% 19% 22% 24% 20% 23% 26% 23%
Non-Governmental Organisation 18% 23% 23% 20% 18% 9% 32% 20%
National Government 19% 20% 20% 19% 19% 21% 15% 19%
Elected Leader i.e. MCA, MP etc 12% 13% 10% 12% 19% 14% 9% 13%
Parliament (Senate or National Assembly) 10% 13% 12% 12% 10% 9% 9% 11%
Civil Society Organisation 8% 9% 4% 10% 7% 13% 6% 8%
I can't remember 3% 3% 2% 4% 5% 2% – 3%
Others 1% – 1% 1% – – – 1%

Voices from the Ground: Public Participation

FGD Respondent

…The reason as to why we don't participate in these public participation forums is because there is nowhere it is announced when it will be held…

FGD Respondent

…In the national assembly we have seen different policies being formulated without a proper public participation…

KII Respondent

…The problem with our country is that the Executive doesn't want to listen to the citizens' opinions…

Key Issues of Concern: Key Take-Out

As of the time of this survey, the most pressing concerns among Kenyans are the high cost of living, unemployment, corruption, over taxation, and access to healthcare.

Key Issues of Concern

Which three key issues concern you the most as a Kenyan and need to be addressed by the government as a matter of priority? n = 2400

High cost of living
51%
Unemployment
36%
Corruption
24%
Over taxation
23%
The migration from NHIF to SHIF/SHA
23%
Transport, Infrastructure and Roads
13%
Access to quality and affordable healthcare
13%
Access to quality and affordable education
12%
Cost of doing business
10%
Extra-judicial killings
9%
Insecurity/crime
9%
Poverty reduction
6%
Empowerment of youth
6%
Cost of farm inputs like fertilizer and mechanical equipment
5%
Youth grievances
4%
Public participation
4%
Access to clean water
4%

Additional issues cited at lower shares include women empowerment (3%), equal distribution of resources (2%), drug and substance abuse/alcoholism (2%), ethnicity/tribalism (2%), environmental conservation (1%), high cost of education (1%), and disaster management (1%), among others. Full region and gender/age breakdowns are below.

Key Issues of Concern — By Region
Issue Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
High cost of living 50% 52% 55% 47% 53% 52% 45% 51% 51%
Unemployment 34% 32% 34% 34% 39% 37% 34% 39% 36%
Corruption 17% 20% 23% 26% 29% 22% 15% 26% 24%
Over taxation 14% 20% 25% 27% 26% 23% 17% 26% 23%
The migration from NHIF to SHIF/SHA 20% 14% 25% 34% 20% 24% 24% 21% 23%
Transport, Infrastructure and Roads 16% 14% 12% 14% 13% 13% 16% 9% 13%
Access to quality and affordable healthcare 18% 17% 14% 13% 10% 10% 13% 14% 13%
Access to quality and affordable education 19% 17% 12% 10% 10% 8% 14% 13% 12%
Cost of doing business 13% 9% 11% 8% 8% 9% 9% 12% 10%
Extra-judicial killings 9% 7% 9% 6% 7% 8% 11% 14% 9%
Insecurity/crime 15% 20% 8% 5% 8% 7% 8% 7% 9%
Poverty reduction 4% 6% 6% 4% 7% 7% 9% 5% 6%
Empowerment of youth 6% 5% 4% 7% 5% 6% 9% 5% 6%
Cost of farm inputs like fertilizer and mechanical equipment 6% 3% 4% 4% 6% 6% 8% 3% 5%
Youth grievances 8% 7% 4% 4% 3% 7% 4% 3% 4%
Public participation 4% 5% 5% 4% 2% 4% 6% 4% 4%
Access to clean water 6% 5% 3% 3% 4% 3% 4% 3% 4%
Women empowerment 4% 3% 3% 2% 2% 4% 3% 3% 3%
Equal distribution of resources 2% 1% 2% 3% 2% 3% 3% 1% 2%
Drug and substance abuse/Alcoholism 2% 4% 1% 2% 1% 2% 4% 1% 2%
Ethnicity/Tribalism 2% 3% 1% 2% 1% 1% 2% 3% 2%
Environmental conservation 1% 1% 2% 1% 1% 0.4% 2% 2% 1%
High cost of education 1% 1% 1% 2% 1% 0.4% – 1% 1%
Disaster management 1% 2% 1% 1% 0.5% – 1% 1% 1%
End the lecturers' strike – 1% 1% – 0.2% – – 0.4% 0.3%
The new university funding model – – 0.3% 2% – – – – 0.2%
Unity in the country – – 1% – – – 0.3% – 0.1%
Others 2% – 1% – 0.5% 0.4% 0.3% 2% 1%
Key Issues of Concern — By Gender & Age
Issue Male Female 18-26 Years 27-35 Years 36-45 Years 46-55 Years Over 55 Years Total
High cost of living 49% 52% 44% 54% 50% 53% 50% 51%
Unemployment 36% 36% 38% 37% 36% 29% 32% 36%
Corruption 25% 22% 25% 25% 20% 19% 26% 24%
Over taxation 24% 22% 22% 25% 21% 22% 21% 23%
The migration from NHIF to SHIF/SHA 23% 24% 19% 25% 22% 27% 19% 23%
Transport, Infrastructure and Roads 13% 13% 15% 13% 11% 13% 10% 13%
Access to quality and affordable healthcare 14% 11% 11% 13% 14% 16% 12% 13%
Access to quality and affordable education 12% 12% 9% 11% 15% 13% 15% 12%
Cost of doing business 9% 10% 10% 8% 11% 15% 8% 10%
Extra-judicial killings 9% 9% 9% 8% 12% 11% 6% 9%
Insecurity/crime 9% 9% 10% 7% 10% 8% 13% 9%
Poverty reduction 7% 6% 6% 6% 6% 5% 9% 6%
Empowerment of youth 5% 6% 6% 6% 6% 4% 4% 6%
Cost of farm inputs like fertilizer and mechanical equipment 6% 5% 5% 4% 6% 10% 9% 5%
Youth grievances 4% 5% 6% 4% 4% 3% 3% 4%
Public participation 4% 4% 4% 4% 4% 5% 5% 4%
Access to clean water 4% 4% 5% 3% 3% 4% 8% 4%
Women empowerment 2% 4% 3% 3% 4% 2% 3% 3%
Equal distribution of resources 2% 3% 2% 2% 2% 3% 3% 2%
Drug and substance abuse/Alcoholism 1% 2% 2% 2% 2% 3% 3% 2%
Ethnicity/Tribalism 2% 2% 2% 2% 2% 0.4% 3% 2%
Environmental conservation 1% 1% 2% 0.4% 1% 2% 3% 1%
High cost of education 1% 1% 1% 1% 0.2% 2% 1% 1%
Disaster management 1% 1% 1% 1% 0.2% – 3% 1%
End the lecturers' strike 0.3% 0.2% 1% 0.2% 0.2% – – 0.3%
The new university funding model 0.3% 0.2% 0.2% 0.3% 0.2% – 1% 0.2%
Unity in the country 0.1% 0.2% 0.4% 0.1% – – – 0.1%
Others 1% 1% 1% 1% 0.4% 1% – 1%

Voices from the Ground: Key Issues of Concern

FGD Respondent

…Number one issue to be addressed is the high cost of living, everything has gone high…

FGD Respondent

…corruption is too much…

FGD Respondent

…you can see how the SHA program is bringing problems. One queues for the whole day and yet they are told they are not enrolled in the program, therefore they can't be helped. So service delivery has deteriorated…

KII Respondent

…I think the key issue to focus on should be good governance with a major focus on transparency, public participation, and listening to the people…

Sources of Information on Current Affairs

What are your main sources of information on current affairs? n = 2400

TV
67%
Radio
54%
Social media (e.g. Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp)
50%
Newspapers
9%
Word of Mouth/Friends/family
4%
Refused to answer
0.4%

TV (67%), Radio (54%), and Social Media (50%) are the main sources of information among Kenyans.

Sources of Information — By Region
Source Coast North Eastern Eastern Central Rift Valley Western Nyanza Nairobi Total
TV 64% 59% 70% 70% 68% 62% 59% 77% 67%
Radio 48% 48% 54% 50% 58% 61% 60% 48% 54%
Social media (e.g. Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp) 34% 39% 49% 57% 48% 52% 50% 64% 50%
Newspapers 13% 8% 9% 10% 7% 8% 10% 11% 9%
Word of Mouth/Friends/family 9% 4% 3% 5% 4% 3% 4% 4% 4%
Refused to answer 1% 1% – – 0.5% 1% – – 0.4%
Sources of Information — By Gender & Age
Source Male Female 18-26 Years 27-35 Years 36-45 Years 46-55 Years Over 55 Years Total
TV 67% 67% 66% 69% 63% 70% 64% 67%
Radio 52% 57% 44% 53% 58% 68% 71% 54%
Social media (e.g. Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp) 57% 43% 58% 55% 44% 39% 23% 50%
Newspapers 11% 7% 8% 8% 14% 9% 7% 9%
Word of Mouth/Friends/family 4% 5% 5% 4% 5% 5% 5% 4%
Refused to answer 0.1% 1% 0.2% 0.4% 1% 0.4% – 0.4%
Survey Demographics

Age

18-26 Years
22%
27-35 Years
44%
36-45 Years
19%
46-55 Years
9%
55+ Years
6%

Gender

51%

Female — 51%
Male — 49%

Religion

63%

Protestant — 63%
Catholic — 27%
Muslim — 8%
None — 1%

Employment

Self-employed (Formal)
10%
Self-employed (Informal)
33%
Employed
22%
Unemployed
33%
Retired
1%
Refused to answer
0.5%

Level of Education

Primary
17%
Secondary
43%
College
23%
University/Post-graduate
15%
None
3%
Nationwide Perception Study · Infotrak Research & Consulting for the Electoral Law and Governance Institute for Africa (ELGIA), December 2024

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