Due to the increased cost of living, Kenyans are struggling to make ends meet while hoteliers, food sellers, and restaurant operators struggle with poor customer turnout. To save money on eating out during lunch, middle-class Kenyans, particularly those working in upscale Nairobi and its environs, are now bringing packed lunches to work.
Since it opened five years ago, Janet (not her real name) has been running a restaurant in Nairobi’s Kilimani neighborhood. Her clients are local workers who are employed by various organizations. Janet claims that lately, things haven’t been the same because fewer people are coming in for lunch.
“To maintain the business, we had to raise the prices on our menu as the cost of necessities increased. This turned off a lot of our clients. What can we do, though? That is the only way we can keep this place running, claims Janet.
The majority of the restaurant’s seats are vacant today, in contrast to earlier when she had to struggle to make more room for her patrons.
Many people who used to dine here have switched to packing their lunches, which they consume at their desks and cars. IT specialist Justin*, who works in Kilimani, claims he used to frequent Janet’s restaurant but has stopped because he cannot afford it.
Ugali beef was a bit cheaper when it cost Ksh200, and I could eat at least three lunches a week. However, it is currently selling for Ksh300, which is a lot in my opinion. That amounts to Ksh1500 per week, says Justin.
Additionally, he owns a car and daily parking fees. Justin does not see the need to buy lunch given this and the high expense of fuel.
Instead, he invested in a hot pot and now drives around with a lunchbox.
“Paying Ksh. 200 per day for parking while a litre of gasoline costs Ksh. 218 is by no means viable. I had to give up some things. I would drop the car as well, he continues, if it weren’t for the convenience it provides.
Kenyans now pay more at the pump as a result of the government’s recent revision of the fuel price.
The hospitality and agricultural sectors, among others, will undoubtedly be impacted by the increased fuel prices.
As a result, the cost of necessities like food will rise. Even though they are struggling with high fuel expenses, neighbors are suddenly giving up their cars and following along.
