According to the World Bank, in 2019, the poverty rate in Kenya was approximately 35.7%, meaning that more than one-third of the population lived in poverty. This figure varies across different regions within the country, with poverty rates generally higher in rural areas compared to urban centers. This means with a population of over 53M, that over 17.5M people in Kenya are living in poverty.
Factors contributing to poverty in Kenya include limited access to education, healthcare, clean water, and sanitation facilities. Additionally, unemployment and underemployment are persistent issues, especially among youth and women. These challenges are often interconnected, as lack of education and employment opportunities can perpetuate the cycle of poverty.
Compassion currently works with over 133,000 children and their immediate families in Kenya. These families receive the benefit of Child Sponsorship through the 454 community churches in these areas.