A Tanzanian man in his 30s, who was deported from North America four months ago, is facing significant challenges finding a job that matches his previous salary. While abroad, he earned approximately Sh1 million per month. However, since his return to Kenya, he has been offered jobs with salaries as low as Sh50,000, which he has turned down. He is currently living with his parents and is eager to find a suitable job to regain his financial independence.
The deported Tanzanian recently received a job offer that pays Sh46,000 net per month. Although the salary is lower than his expectations, he is considering accepting it to avoid disappointing his parents. Financial planning and investments consultant, Alexander Dominic Karanja, advises him to accept the offer and use the next 12 months to rebuild his finances and career. Karanja suggests that this transition is disorienting, and his reluctance to accept a lower-paying job is a natural response to a sudden change in circumstances.
Karanja recommends that the Tanzanian accept the Sh46,000 net monthly salary and focus on rebuilding his finances and career. He suggests using the 50:30:20 budgeting framework to manage the salary, allocating 50% to essential needs, 30% to personal and lifestyle expenses, and 20% to savings and financial security. This would enable him to cover modest living expenses, save for the future, and work towards regaining financial independence.
The Tanzanian's goal is to save enough money to leave Kenya and return abroad as soon as possible. However, Karanja advises him to treat this as a planned career and migration goal rather than an urgent escape. He recommends updating his CV to highlight his North American experience, pursuing better-paying opportunities with multinational companies and international organizations, and exploring legitimate overseas employment and migration options.
Karanja emphasizes that the Tanzanian should not let pride, embarrassment, or family pressure dictate his decisions. He encourages him to view the Sh46,000 salary as a starting point for rebuilding his independence, not a measure of his success or final destination. The job offers an immediate financial lifeline, reduces his dependence on his parents, restores routine, and provides a base from which to pursue better-paying local roles or international opportunities.
The Tanzanian's situation highlights the challenges faced by individuals who are deported or return to their home country after living abroad. It can be difficult to adjust to a new reality, especially when there is a significant difference in salary and lifestyle. Karanja's advice emphasizes the importance of being practical, patient, and focused on rebuilding one's finances and career.
The story of the deported Tanzanian serves as a reminder that starting over in life is not uncommon, and it is essential to prioritize financial stability and independence. By accepting the job offer and working towards rebuilding his finances, he can create a better future for himself and potentially explore new opportunities abroad.
Key points
- The Tanzanian man was earning Sh1 million per month in North America but is now struggling to find a job that pays above Sh50,000 in Kenya.
