Kenyans Want Government To Prioritise Environmental Protection, Even At The Expense Of Job Creation
Afrobarometer
Download
Abstract: This dispatch presents findings from Afrobarometer's Round 9 survey in Kenya, which explored public perceptions on environmental governance and pollution. Survey results from 2,400 respondents reveal that half of Kenyans view pollution as a serious local problem, with deforestation and trash disposal identified as top issues. Urban residents and those experiencing poverty report greater concern. While 55% of citizens say that ordinary people bear responsibility for addressing pollution, 91% demand ?much more? action from government?including tighter regulation of natural resource extraction. Notably, 75% of respondents believe environmental protection should be prioritized even over job creation. The study also finds that while citizens are split on whether resource extraction brings net benefits, a strong majority (85%) support stricter government regulation to minimize environmental impacts. The survey emphasizes growing public expectations for environmental leadership at both local and national levels.