Kenyan family uses TikTok to cope with rising costs of living

For Leaky Analo, a boda boda operator turned TikTok sensation, the popular social media platform has become a lifeline, allowing him to share his struggles and occasionally receive help from strangers who are touched by his story.

Operating from Mathare, Analo uses his downtime between ferrying passengers to record TikTok videos.

Over the past two months, he has mastered this routine, creating content that lays bare the realities of his life. Unlike many influencers who showcase luxurious lifestyles, Analo highlights his daily struggles, from work challenges to providing for his family.

Analo starts his day by taking milk and mandazi from a nearby kiosk to his wife and daughter at their one-roomed house in Mathare.

It was here, in December, that he and his wife, Yvonne Nanjala, conceived the idea of their TikTok diary, "Dolly Family."

“We saw other people creating content and thought, why not share our real life, no hiding, just being open,” says Analo.

Yvonne adds, “As we scrolled through TikTok, we saw many people benefitting. So we decided to start too.”

Some days are better than others. On particularly tough days, Analo’s earnings fall short of meeting his family’s needs. Yet, through the ups and downs, the family remains united.

“One day, I worked the whole day, paid the bike owner Ksh 400, fueled the motorbike, and I was left with just Ksh 400. That’s the reality I show people,” Analo recalls.

Yvonne echoes the sentiment of resilience. “In life, you must endure. When he earns little, we manage with what we have, and as women, sometimes we have to make sacrifices.”

Analo credits his TikTok followers for easing some of his financial struggles. On days when his income isn’t enough, followers often step in to assist.

“Some people send me money after watching my videos. One day, Mama Asha invited us to Parklands and gifted us with shopping. It really helps,” Analo shares.

On a good day, Analo takes home Ksh 400 after paying the bike owner and fueling expenses.

He carefully divides his earnings between his family’s daily needs and saving for rent, which costs Ksh 2,600 per month. However, the rising cost of living has made balancing these responsibilities even harder.

“The prices of everything have gone up, especially after fuel costs increased,” he says.

Yvonne reflects on how their situation has changed. “Before, life was much better. We had enough shopping at home, and he could buy our child Cerelac and Weetabix. Now, the money barely covers food, let alone extras like diapers.”

The Analo family hopes the government will take measures to curb inflation and address the rising cost of living. At the same time, they aim to leverage their growing TikTok presence to establish themselves as reputable content creators.

For now, their story continues to inspire thousands online, offering a glimpse into the resilience of Kenyans navigating tough economic times.