A hand stretching out to receive. Photo from Pexel-Philip Justin Mamelic
Kenyans are giving more frequently and more generously than most parts of the world, according to a new report that paints a picture of a nation where philanthropy and community support remain deeply rooted in culture.
The Kenya Giving Report 2025, released by the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) in partnership with the Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF), shows that Kenyans consistently outperformed both continental and global averages in money donations, volunteering, and frequency of giving throughout 2024.
The survey, which forms part of the World Giving Report, examined giving behaviours across 101 countries and territories.
It looked at three key areas: giving money, volunteering time, and helping strangers.
In Kenya, researchers worked with KCDF to collect country-level data, presenting insights into how individuals and communities continued to support one another despite harsh economic conditions.
Frequency of Giving
One of the strongest findings was the frequency with which Kenyans donate. In 2024, 21 per cent of Kenyan givers donated 12 or more times during the year.
This was notably higher than both the African average of 17 per cent and the global average of 13 per cent.
“The data shows that Kenyans give not just occasionally, but consistently,” the Kenya Giving Report 2025 stated.
“This regularity of giving highlights a culture of responsibility and solidarity, where individuals feel compelled to support others repeatedly over time.”
Analysts say the frequency of giving is a reflection of the communal values that underpin Kenyan society, where families and communities often rally around one another in times of need.
Commitment to Volunteering
The report also highlights Kenya’s strong volunteer culture. Nearly half of Kenyans engaged in voluntary work, averaging 20.6 hours per person in 2024.
This placed Kenya ahead of both global and continental averages, showing that citizens are dedicating significant time to community causes.
According to the report, most Kenyans volunteered between three and five times during the year, accounting for 38 per cent of respondents.
“Volunteering remains a powerful expression of community participation,” the report noted.
“Kenya’s volunteering rates demonstrate a commitment to civic duty and local problem-solving, particularly at a time when many communities are grappling with economic challenges.”
Financial Generosity
Money donations remain the strongest form of giving among Kenyans.
The report found that 86 per cent of Kenyans gave money to different causes in 2024.
This included religious contributions, donations to charities, and direct support to families or individuals in need.
By comparison, the global average was 64 per cent, while the African average stood at 72 per cent.
“The fact that Kenya leads in money donations reflects a deeply ingrained culture of generosity,” the Kenya Giving Report 2025 explained.
“Faith, solidarity, and the belief in supporting local communities drive these behaviours.”
The findings show that Kenyans largely perceive donating as a choice, not an obligation.
Giving was most often motivated by caring about a cause, a desire to make a difference, encouragement from religion, community support, and the need to set a positive example for others, especially children.
Transparency and Trust in Philanthropy
While the culture of giving is strong, the report warns that charitable organisations must prioritise transparency and accountability if they wish to see sustained growth in donations.
According to the survey, 61 per cent of Kenyans said that access to information on the impact of their donations would motivate them to give more.
Additionally, 47 per cent said they would be encouraged to give more if they knew the charity sector was well-regulated.
“Trust is the foundation of philanthropy,” the report emphasised.
“For Kenya’s giving environment to grow, charities must show donors the real impact of their contributions. Regulation and openness will unlock even greater generosity.”
Role of Religion and Community
Religion remains one of the strongest motivators for giving.
Many Kenyans donate through their churches, mosques, and other religious institutions.
The report notes that religion provides both moral encouragement and structured avenues for community support.
But giving also extends beyond religious duty.
The survey highlights the role of local community ties, family obligations, and peer influence in shaping donation behaviour.
Many Kenyans said they gave because they wanted to be role models, particularly for children.
Kenya in a Global Context
The World Giving Report, previously known as the World Giving Index, has been tracking generosity for more than a decade.
By measuring attitudes and behaviours, it offers a global comparison of how different societies support each other.
Kenya’s performance stands out in this year’s edition. The country not only exceeded continental averages in all three giving categories but also scored significantly above the global benchmark.
“This year’s report demonstrates that Kenya continues to be a leader in giving across the African continent,” it stated.
“Despite economic headwinds, Kenyans remain among the most generous populations in the world.”
Generosity Amid Economic Pressure
Kenya has been grappling with a high cost of living, with inflation and food prices straining household budgets. Yet, according to the report, this has not dampened people’s willingness to give.
“The persistence of generosity in the face of economic pressure is striking,” the Kenya Giving Report 2025 noted.
“It suggests that Kenyans see giving not as an extra, but as an essential part of their lives and identities.”
Civic actors say this resilience is a positive sign for civil society.
Increased community involvement and sustained giving habits could strengthen grassroots initiatives, improve local problem-solving, and build trust in collective action.
Youth Driving the Future of Giving
The report also highlights the role of young people in shaping the future of giving.
With Kenya’s youth population accounting for the majority of its citizens, the study finds that younger generations are increasingly active in both volunteering and donating.
“This trend highlights the potential for sustainable growth in the giving environment,” the report said.
“The involvement of youth ensures that Kenya’s culture of generosity will remain strong and adaptive to emerging needs.”
A Culture of Collective Action
The findings of the Kenya Giving Report 2025 paint a picture of a society where generosity, compassion, and collective action are central values.
Whether through money, time, or consistent small acts, Kenyans are making tangible contributions to one another’s lives.
“This year’s data reminds us that giving takes many forms,” the report concluded.
“From supporting a neighbour to volunteering at a local initiative or donating through religious channels, Kenyans continue to show the power of kindness.”
For charities, religious organisations, and civic groups, the challenge will be to maintain this momentum by ensuring accountability and building trust.
For ordinary Kenyans, the report suggests, giving remains not just a duty but a way of life.
