Kenyans should prepare to spend more money on basic household items in the coming months. New government figures show that prices for common foods and daily necessities continue to rise steadily.
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), food prices increased sharply by January 2026. The Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages category recorded a 7.3 percent increase over one year, making it the biggest contributor to the rising cost of living.
Maize, which is a staple food for most households, became more expensive. The price of maize grain rose from Ksh69.39 per kilogram in December 2025 to Ksh71.28 in January 2026. This increase directly affects families that rely on maize for daily meals.
Other goods whose prices set to hike.
Fortified maize flour also recorded a notable rise. A 2-kilogram packet increased from Ksh162.56 to Ksh173.51 within one month. This change means households now pay more for ugali and other common meals.
Vegetables did not escape the price increases. Kale prices rose by 4 percent, while cabbage prices jumped by 9 percent. Experts warn that delays in the expected March to May long rains could reduce crop production. Lower harvests would push prices even higher in the coming weeks.
Energy costs are also placing pressure on households. Electricity prices increased across different usage levels. The cost of 50 kilowatt-hours rose by 3.7 percent, while 200 kilowatt-hours increased by 3.4 percent. These changes raise monthly power bills for both small and larger households.
Kerosene prices dropped slightly by 0.6 percent, offering minor relief. However, fuel costs remain a major driver of higher prices because they affect transport and food distribution.
Transport costs continued to rise during the same period. KNBS reported a 4.8 percent annual increase in public transport fares and fuel-related expenses. Although petrol and diesel prices recorded small monthly drops, transport remains expensive for most commuters.
Overall inflation in the country remained fairly stable. The Consumer Price Index showed inflation at 4.4 percent in January 2026, slightly lower than 4.5 percent in December 2025. This figure shows that prices continue to rise, though at a slower pace.
Core inflation, which excludes food and fuel, increased to 2.2 percent. This rise reflects higher costs in areas such as manufactured foods, healthcare, education, and communication services.
Non-core inflation, which covers items that change prices frequently, stood at 10.3 percent. This figure highlights ongoing instability in food and energy prices.
Other household goods also became more expensive. Irish potato prices rose by 3.4 percent. Laundry soap and domestic services recorded smaller increases of between 0.5 and 0.6 percent.
