The annual World Happiness Index, a global survey that measures the happiness of countries, has revealed that Kenya’s level of happiness has dropped for the second consecutive year in a row.
According to the latest report, published on Thursday, March 21, 2025, Kenya has dropped one spot to rank 115 out of 147 surveyed countries, down from 114th in 2024.
Advertisement
In 2023, Kenya reached its highest-ever ranking at 111th, while in 2022, the country was positioned at 119th.
Kenya’s Happiness Level Ranks First in East Africa
In East Africa, Kenya ranks ahead of its neighbours; Uganda (116), Somalia (122), Ethiopia (132), Tanzania (136), and DRC (141).
Advertisement
In Africa, Mauritius has been ranked the happiest country, coming at position 78 globally.
According to the report, the world’s unhappiest African countries include Zimbabwe (143), and Malawi (144).
Advertisement
Several African countries have also ranked higher in happiness than Kenya, including the Congo (100), Namibia (103), Cameroon (104), and Nigeria (100).
Other Countries
Finland has retained its position as the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year, continuing to lead the global rankings with its social support systems, quality of life, and overall well-being.
Other countries that made it to the top 5 include Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and the Netherlands.
Key Indicators of Happiness in the Latest Report
According to the World Happiness Report (WHR), happiness is not merely an emotional state like smiling or laughing but rather an assessment of one’s overall life.
Key factors influencing happiness include social cohesion, with the happiest countries featuring societies that foster strong support and cooperation.
GDP per capita is another important measure, reflecting the economic well-being of the population.
Other significant indicators include freedom, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.
Also Read: Gen Z Protests, Abductions Feature in Global Report Covering 120 Countries
Kenya’s Happiness Level Drops
The report did not state the exact reason why Kenya’s happiness dropped. However, there are a few factors that have led to the dissatisfaction of many Kenyans in recent years.
For example, the increase in the tax burden that led to mass protests across the country and unemployment among the youth.
Additional taxes through the 2024 Finance Bill also aggravated tension between Kenyans and the government.
Furthermore, the rising cost of living, particularly the increase in food prices, has significantly contributed to the growing unhappiness across the country.
Also Read: Kenyan Protestors Storm Police Station
World Happiness Report (WHR)
The annual World Happiness Report marks the UN’s International Day of Happiness, by ranking the world’s happiest countries and asking people to evaluate their lives.
March 20 was declared International Day of Happiness (IHD) by the General Assembly of the United Nations.
John F. Helliwell Vancouver from the School of Economics, University of British Columbia led other researchers in coming up with the report.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and join our WhatsApp Group for real-time news updates.
