Why Employment Alone Won't Make You Rich in Kenya: The Harsh Realities

 

In Kenya, the pursuit of wealth is often painted as a straightforward path: work hard, climb the corporate ladder, and eventually, you'll reach the top. But the reality, particularly in many parts of Africa, is much more complex and disheartening. Employment alone rarely leads to the level of richness that many desire. Instead, the pathways to significant wealth are often paved with crime, politics, or the exploitation of religion. This isn't just a Kenyan issue—it's a reflection of a broader systemic problem that plagues much of the continent.

The Illusion of Employment as a Wealth Pathway

In Kenya, like in many developing nations, the idea that employment is the key to wealth is widespread. Young people are encouraged to pursue education, secure a stable job, and work diligently to improve their socio-economic status. However, the reality is that the majority of employed Kenyans are stuck in low-paying jobs, struggling to make ends meet. The cost of living continues to rise, while wages stagnate, making it nearly impossible for the average worker to save or invest significantly.

Employment in Kenya often translates to survival, not prosperity. Even for those who secure higher-paying jobs, the financial obligations—supporting extended families, paying for education, healthcare, and basic needs—consume much of their earnings. The idea of accumulating wealth through employment alone becomes increasingly unattainable.

The Crooked Path to Wealth: Crime, Politics, and Religion

For those who seek to transcend the limitations of employment, the avenues to wealth in Kenya often involve dubious or outright unethical practices.

1. Crime: Organized crime and corruption are rampant in Kenya. The lure of quick, substantial money leads many to engage in illegal activities. From smuggling and drug trafficking to cybercrime, these paths offer a stark contrast to the slow grind of regular employment. Unfortunately, crime not only destabilizes society but also perpetuates a cycle of poverty and violence that affects everyone.

2. Politics: In Kenya, politics is often seen as a direct route to wealth. Many politicians leverage their positions to amass significant personal fortunes, often at the expense of the public. Corruption is rife, with political office often being viewed as a business opportunity rather than a public service. The intertwining of money and politics creates a system where the wealthy and powerful continue to grow richer while the average citizen remains disenfranchised.

3. Religion: The exploitation of religious beliefs is another disturbing avenue to wealth in Kenya. Some so-called spiritual leaders prey on the vulnerability of their followers, promising miracles, prosperity, and salvation in exchange for money. These leaders often amass significant wealth by manipulating the hopes and fears of their congregants, creating a dangerous blend of faith and financial exploitation.

Insight

The harsh reality in Kenya is that the traditional pathway of employment is unlikely to lead to the riches many dream of. Instead, wealth is often found at the intersections of crime, politics, and the exploitation of religion. This situation highlights the urgent need for systemic change—a rethinking of how wealth is generated and distributed in society. True prosperity should be accessible through honest means, where hard work and integrity are rewarded. Until then, the average Kenyan is left with a difficult choice: struggle within the constraints of the system or risk moral and legal peril in pursuit of wealth.

Written by 

Basilio Karani Miringu