KenyaOnAShoeString: Real Advice for Real Kenyans

In Kenya, we love the idea of wealth. We want it, chase it, and admire those who have it. But do we ever stop to ask: What is true wealth? Is it a German machine with a KDJ plate? A big house in Kitengela that you’re barely ever in? Or is it something deeper—freedom from financial stress, control over your time, and peace of mind? We live in a culture that pressures us to show success even when we are drowning in debt. Loans for lifestyle upgrades, unnecessary spending to keep up appearances, and the constant need for more leave many feeling stuck in an endless hustle. Maybe it’s time to rethink wealth—not as having more, but as needing less. The Wisdom of the Ages Great thinkers throughout history have questioned the value of excess wealth. Their words remain as relevant today as they were centuries ago: "Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants." — Epictetus "Money often costs too much." — Ralph Waldo Emerson "Frugality includ...

Owning a home is a big dream for many Kenyans, but somewhere along the way, practicality has been thrown out the window. Too many people, driven by childhood aspirations or societal expectations, are constructing massive houses only to end up living like misers within them. Let’s break down why this trend makes little sense and what smarter, more sustainable homeownership looks like. The Harsh Reality of Owning a Big House in Kenya Many Kenyans, especially those who grew up in humble backgrounds, grew up being told to “dream big.” Unfortunately, this has translated into building unnecessarily large houses, often with rooms that remain unused, multiple verandahs gathering dust, and massive balconies that no one actually sits on. These houses cost millions to build, yet within a few years, the owners are struggling to maintain them, regretting their choices as they pour more money into renovations. If you need proof, just look at how many old houses in Nairobi remain unsold. No one wants...