Culture Shock in Kenya

As a vibrant and diverse country, culture shock in Kenya can come in many different forms. Some new arrivals find living in Kenya quite difficult to adjust to, often choosing to live entirely enclosed within an expat circle, rarely straying from their compounds. This tends to further intensify one's sense of isolation.

Other expats don't find the culture differences intimidating at all, and are instead inspired by the friendly and open nature of Kenyans who generally have a welcoming and helpful attitude towards foreigners. There are also expat groups in the large cities such as Nairobi and Mombasa that help facilitate the assimilation process. These organisations arrange social gatherings including lunch dates and sporting events. Expats should contact their embassy or consulate to find out more about local expat clubs.

New arrivals to Kenya will likely face various forms of culture shock and there may be lifestyle differences in Nairobi compared to Mombasa and other coastal towns, as well as elsewhere in the country.

There are multiple ethnic groups (the well known Maasai people being one) and religions in the country. So, those interested in local and traditional cultural practices will find much to explore. Whatever the culture shock, expats will settle in quicker by being patient and open to learning and understanding the way things are done.

Inequality in Kenya

Expats in Kenya are privy to luxurious houses, shop at modern malls and drive comfortable cars. This does make the expat experience relatively insulated, and quite different to the average Kenyan's experience.

New arrivals are often shocked at the disparity between the haves and have-nots. Wealthy Kenyans drive luxury vehicles, own palatial homes and operate with an abundance of resources. There is also a growing lower-middle class that enjoys a comfortable but modest lifestyle.

Still, a large proportion of Kenyans live below the poverty line, visible in rural areas and cities alike. The poor live in densely populated communities in and around cities, lacking essential resources such as proper clean water, sanitation, electricity and educational facilities. This stark inequality can be a cause for culture shock and cannot be ignored.

Language barrier in Kenya

English-speaking expats will be relieved to find that they won’t struggle with much of a language barrier in Kenya. English is one of the country's two official languages, and while Swahili is the first language of many Kenyans, there's widespread English proficiency, particularly in cities. Many also speak an additional region-specific language.

The reduced language barrier makes expat adjustment to life in Kenya much smoother especially in doing business or making friends.

Traffic and road conditions in Kenya

Expats in Kenya will soon get used to sitting in traffic and being surrounded by hawkers, who sell everything from newspapers and magazines to car accessories. Maps, phone chargers, toys, bananas, sunglasses and art are just a few of the things on offer. While the constant pressure to buy things can be annoying, expats will soon learn to tolerate these vendors and gently encourage them to move on.

Public transport options in Kenya are somewhat limited. Driving in Kenya isn't always easy, so expats are advised to hire a local driver, but those who opt to get behind the wheel should drive defensively at all times. 

Corruption and bureaucracy in Kenya

The economic disparities in Kenya are symptoms of a bigger problem. Corruption and mismanagement of public funds have long been a problem, and expats may come across instances of solicited bribery even in their day-to-day lives.

When dealing with visas, work permits, paperwork and driving licences, expats are sure to find the inevitable delays extremely frustrating. It's often necessary to hire a qualified agent to deal with matters such as these. Achieving the desired results is sometimes impossible without their help.