Spirits, soap, and suits: Cost of living jumps in latest KNBS report

For many Kenyans, everyday shopping is becoming a test of patience and of the wallet.

According to the latest Kenya Consumer Price Index and Inflation Report, released on February 27, retail prices of common commodities have been steadily climbing over the past year. 

Between January and February 2026, men’s coats rose by 2.7%, while tailoring and clothing repair services increased slightly by 0.9%.

Household essentials are also feeling the squeeze: dishwashing paste and liquid went up 1.6%, toilet paper and tissue products rose 1.4%, and mirraa (khat) increased 1.3%. 

Tailoring, toilet soap, and hairdressing services saw modest increases ranging from 0.1% to 0.9%.

Medical costs edged higher too. General practitioner services rose 0.7%, medicines for cholesterol and blood pressure went up 0.4%, and insurance premiums for both vehicles and medical coverage increased 0.2%.  Even spirits saw a slight 0.3% rise.

Vegetable prices are climbing as well.  A kilogram of sukuma wiki now costs Sh 83.32, while cabbages go for Sh 51.83. Food and non-alcoholic beverages remain the main drivers of inflation, though hotel and restaurant meals have also edged up slightly. 

Lodging and guest expenses increased by 0.6%, while food sold by vendors rose 0.8%, contributing to an overall 2.7% increase in the sector.

Clothing costs are also climbing, with men’s shirts up 4.1% and men’s coats rising 2.7% as tailoring and repair services became more expensive.

Personal care items showed mixed movements, with hairdressing services up 0.1% and toilet paper and tissue products increasing 1.4%.

Even insurance and financial services were not spared: medical and vehicle insurance premiums each rose 0.2%, contributing to a 0.7% year-on-year increase.

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