KUINAMA:The Hidden Hunger Behind Campus Hustles

For many, “kuinama” isn’t a choice. It’s a survival tactic. “Unless you have a sponsor or some serious side hustle, you learn to bend,” says Grace Wanjiku, a third-year literature student. “Kuinama means skipping lunch, pretending you’re fasting, or acting like you’re too busy to eat. But deep down, you’re just broke.”

The cost of a basic meal around campus ranges from KSh 80 to KSh 150. Multiply that by five days a week, and it’s easy to see why lunch becomes a luxury. HELB loans, often delayed or barely enough, are prioritized for rent, fees, and emergencies. Food? That's a “we’ll figure it out” problem.

“Kuinama” has evolved from a coping mechanism into a culture,  a word used jokingly, a badge of resilience, even pride.

“There’s this unspoken code,” says Brian Otieno, a business major. “You joke about ‘kuinama’ to hide the struggle. You’ll say, ‘leo tunainama’ (today we’re bending), but no one really wants to admit they haven’t eaten since yesterday.”

Peer pressure also plays a role. In a world of curated Instagram meals and stylish campus lifestyles, admitting to hunger feels like defeat. Some students resort to sugar water, black tea, or shared biscuits to trick the stomach into silence.

To avoid “kuinama,” students are increasingly turning to side hustles. From running errands, freelancing online, to hawking thrifted clothes, these micro-jobs often dictate their class attendance and social life.

“I sell smokies and eggs in the evening,” says Lucy Mwikali, a second-year student at Chuka University  “But on days I make less than KSh 200, I skip lunch the next day. Simple math.”

Others take more drastic measures. Some skip lectures to save fare, walk long distances, or share a single meal among three friends. The choices are tough study on an empty stomach or miss class to work for your next meal.

Health experts warn that skipping meals  especially lunch  can affect academic performance, mood, and mental health. Hunger affects concentration, weakens immunity, and contributes to anxiety and fatigue.

“The irony is that students are expected to be their most productive during their university years, But many are operating on half-empty stomachs and full mental loads.”says Dr Felix Kiratu a nutritionist.

University administrations often turn a blind eye to “kuinama.” While some institutions offer subsidized meals or food banks, the reach is limited and the stigma is real.

As the sun sets and students prepare for evening classes, many will have gone a full day without eating. Tomorrow, they’ll wake up and do it all again  smiling, joking, bending. Kuinama.