Jijenge CEO Peter Macharia Kamau: “Money Can Indeed Buy Happiness”

The age-old debate about whether money can buy happiness has resurfaced, with Jijenge Credit Limited’s Founder and CEO, Peter Macharia Kamau, weighing in on the conversation. Kamau, who leads one of Kenya’s top credit-only microfinance institutions, believes that money plays a crucial role in achieving happiness—especially when it comes to emotional well-being and life satisfaction.

“Money can indeed buy happiness. If anyone tells you that money doesn’t, remind them that you didn’t sign up for misery,” said Kamau. He pointed out that while financial wealth is not everything, the lack of money is often linked to stress, poor health, and emotional pain.

Kamau highlighted that once people move beyond merely meeting their basic needs—like securing housing, transportation, and savings—the relationship between money and happiness plateaus. “When people can afford vacations, a home, and financial security, making more money doesn’t necessarily add more happiness,” he added.

Kamau’s message comes as part of Jijenge Credit Limited’s Thought for the Month, reflecting on how financial stability can lead to improved emotional well-being and life satisfaction. His remarks resonate with many Kenyans, particularly in today’s challenging economic times, where financial security is a top priority for personal and family well-being.