NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 25 – Kenyans flocked Lunar Park to celebrate Christmas, engaging in activities such as camel riding, merry-go-rounds, face painting among others amid the hard-economic times that limited travel for many.
In the park, Kenyans started strolling in from as early as 10am to celebrate the birth of Christ. And while some took part in various activities, others just relaxed and watched the city from the lush green grounds that were recently given a facelift.
Most business people at the park said that activity this season is better compared to 2021 as the economic effects of Covid-19 have eased.
John Mutiso who was selling candy floss told Capital News that his business has improved this year due to less Covid restrictions.
He however, noted that most customers are struggling financially and this has him reduce the cost of candy floss from Sh100 to Sh50.
His sentiments were echoed by James Maina who brought in a camel for rides.
Mary Owino who was operating a bouncing castle said business was booming for her as many kids urged their parents to pay for them Sh200 to enjoy the activity.
“My day has been busy as I serve clients here, it is definitely better than last year,” she said.
The case was different for Rashid Iman, who sells popcorn, he said business was slow for him considering Uhuru park is still closed and also customers have been complaining about cost.
“We are trying our best but Kenyans are not doing well economically, I have even had to reduce the cost of popcorns from Sh100 to Sh50,” he said.
Despite the hard-economic times, Kenyans have still ensured that they celebrate the birth of Christ as they hope for better times.
A recent industry report noted that Kenyans will be spending 17 percent less on Christmas celebrations than they did in 2021.
The study by world remit was determined after accessing the cost of food, and decor to average citizens’ incomes.
In the recent past, Kenyans have continued to bear the brunt of the high cost of food, fuel, and cooking with the country’s inflation rate hitting 9.5 per cent in November.
