Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi ignited debate after suggesting that increased soft drink consumption in Kenya signals higher disposable income among households. While defending President William Ruto’s economic record, Mbadi argued that the growing demand for sodas indicates that some Kenyans have money left after covering basic expenses.
"Soft drinks consumption has gone up in this country. Do you know what that tells you? Who takes sodas? Sodas people take when they have left a little more in their pockets," Mbadi stated.
His remarks drew swift criticism on social media, with many Kenyans disputing the use of soda consumption as an economic indicator. Critics highlighted more conventional measures such as GDP per capita, poverty rates, and employment statistics as better reflections of economic health.
Some comments emphasized that relying on a single consumption pattern overlooks broader economic challenges. For instance, one user pointed out that other consumption markers like power usage, petrol sales, and vehicle purchases are reportedly declining, contradicting the notion of widespread economic improvement.
Others argued that increased soda consumption may reflect coping mechanisms amid economic hardships rather than genuine wealth gains.
Despite the backlash, Mbadi maintained that the government’s economic progress merits recognition. However, skeptics questioned this stance, citing Kenya’s growing debt burden and ongoing borrowing as reasons to withhold praise.
Political figures have also weighed in. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua criticized the administration for rising taxes and living costs, urging suspension of levies like the Affordable Housing Levy and adjustments to PAYE tax bands to ease financial pressure on workers.
Gachagua called for a review of petroleum pricing to increase net incomes, underscoring tax burdens as a key factor driving the high cost of living.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions over Kenya’s economic direction and the government’s approach to addressing cost of living challenges ahead of the 2027 elections.
