First Salary? I&M Bank Kenya’s #NiSareKabisa Campaign Warns Against Common Money Mistakes
Whenever I hear the phrase Ni Sare Kabisa, my mind drifts back to campus life the days when KES 24 was enough to buy a satisfying plate of rice and ndengu, the kind of meal almost every comrade remembers with nostalgia. Life was simpler then, but every shilling still counted. You thought twice before spending on anything unnecessary, avoided extra charges where possible, and learned how to stretch the little you had.
Today, many young professionals are still living by that same reality, only now the responsibilities are bigger rent, transport, bills, and the pressure that comes with trying to stay afloat in a tough economy. That is why something as simple as eliminating transaction charges can resonate deeply with many Kenyans.
That is the space I&M Bank Kenya’s #NiSareKabisa campaign is stepping into helping customers save more by offering free bank-to-mobile money transfers for personal and sole proprietor business accounts.
The campaign was introduced following the return of bank-to-mobile transfer charges, positioning the bank as a partner focused on practical financial relief while encouraging digital banking adoption.
Its relevance has become even more significant as Treasury proposes a 16 per cent VAT on fees charged by payment platforms including M-Pesa, Airtel Money, Pesapal and Kenswitch a move likely to increase transaction costs for consumers if implemented.
For young earners who rely heavily on mobile money for transport, shopping, rent payments, and daily expenses, avoiding additional transfer charges can help preserve already stretched incomes.
Lifestyle Pressure and Overspending
One of the most common mistakes first salary earners make is spending beyond their means. The pressure to appear successful often pushes young professionals toward expensive gadgets, impulsive shopping, and lifestyles that quickly consume their salaries.
Financial experts say many young earners underestimate how small daily expenses and transaction costs gradually eat into their income.
The #NiSareKabisa campaign taps into this reality by promoting smarter money movement and reducing avoidable banking charges that frequently affect individuals and small business owners.
Ignoring Budgeting
Many young professionals begin earning without a clear financial plan. Without budgeting, it becomes difficult to track spending, prioritize essentials, or build savings.
According to I&M Bank Kenya, financial wellness starts with understanding spending habits, planning finances carefully, and creating room for future goals.
Experts recommend that first salary earners separate needs from wants and start saving consistently, even in small amounts.
Overdependence on Loans
Relying on digital loans to support lifestyles they cannot comfortably afford is another common mistake among young earners.
Financial experts warn that borrowing for non-essential spending can quickly lead to debt cycles and financial stress early in one’s career.
Instead, initiatives such as #NiSareKabisa are increasingly encouraging young people to reduce unnecessary costs, spend responsibly, and build healthier financial habits.
Saving More by Spending Smarter
As Kenya’s economy continues to evolve, young professionals are becoming more conscious about financial planning and everyday spending.
Recent economic developments, including proposals for higher transaction-related taxes and rising living costs, are making cost-saving financial solutions increasingly important.
For many first-time earners, financial success is no longer just about how much money one earns, but how much one manages to keep, save, and grow.
Through #NiSareKabisa, I&M Bank Kenya is positioning itself as part of that conversation by encouraging young Kenyans to avoid unnecessary money mistakes, embrace digital convenience, and build smarter financial habits from the very beginning of their financial journeys.
