In 2024, 21% of Kenyan givers donated 12 or more times, which was above the African/continental (17%) and global (13%) averages, according to the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) and the Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF). This indicated a higher frequency of giving among Kenyans compared to global and continental trends.
The World Giving Report, previously known as the World Giving Index, is a survey by the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) in partnership with its partner social purpose organisations that captures the attitudes and behaviours of the general public regarding giving in 101 countries and territories worldwide. In Kenya, KCDF partnered with CAF to collect data and produce the report. This year’s report seeks to define giving by reflecting on different types of generosity in order to capture the true scope of generosity around the world. The report projects the findings of people’s giving behaviour in three different ways: giving directly to a person or a family in need, giving to a charity, and giving to a religious organisation. Across the report, the words ‘charity’ and ‘charities’ represent any organisation that works to improve issues affecting individuals, communities, animals or the natural environment, and society as a whole.
According to the report, nearly half of Kenyans volunteered, going towards an average of 20.6 hours per person overall. Kenyan volunteers showed higher commitment than global and continental averages. Most Kenyans volunteered 3–5 times (38%), highlighting regular community engagement.
The research also reports that 86% of Kenyans gave money to different causes, ranging from donating to religious organisations to charity and families or individuals in need. This was higher than the global (64%) and continental (72%) averages. This reflects Kenya’s strong culture of community solidarity, local and religious giving, and active civic participation.
Kenyans perceive donating money primarily as a choice, suggesting that giving is often a conscious decision. According to the report, Kenyans give money because they care about the cause and want to make a difference, because their religion encourages giving, because they want to support their local community, and because they want to set an example for others, including children.
To significantly increase donations in Kenya by 2025, charitable organisations must prioritise transparency and accountability. 61% of Kenyans desire information on impact to motivate them to give more, and 47% desire to give after knowing that the charity sector is well-regulated.
This year’s World Giving Report reflects Kenya’s culture of generosity, compassion, and the power of collective action. It provides valuable insights into how individuals and communities continue to support one another, despite the current high cost of living. It also inspires philanthropy and encourages greater participation in acts of kindness through donations, volunteering, or simply helping a stranger.
These findings suggest a robust and evolving civil society, with increased community involvement and a promising future driven by youth engagement. This trend highlights the potential for sustainable growth in the giving environment.
