Online Games That Teach Kenyans Financial Skills: A Fun Way to Build Money Management

As financial literacy becomes increasingly vital, tools like games and apps are helping Kenyans improve their money management skills.

These platforms combine entertainment with practical lessons, making financial concepts accessible and engaging for all ages.

Bridging the Financial Knowledge Gap

A 2023 report by the Central Bank of Kenya revealed that many Kenyans lack basic financial skills, hindering their ability to manage resources effectively. To address this gap, educational games and apps are emerging as innovative solutions.

Popular Financial Literacy Games and Apps

1. Kit by Commbank
   Kit is an app designed for kids to earn, spend, and save money while learning financial concepts in an interactive “Moneyverse.” Built by CommBank, the app features gamified content that increased learning completion rates from 22% to 77%. Kit has also encouraged money conversations in families, with 8 in 10 parents reporting regular discussions about finances.
2. Build Your Stax
   Created by Next Gen Personal Finance, this investment game challenges players to make 20 key financial decisions in 20 minutes. It teaches wealth-building strategies, the importance of emergency funds, and long-term financial planning.
3. Zogo
   This gamified app offers short financial literacy modules on topics like buying a car and stock market investing. Players earn points for completing challenges, redeemable for real-world rewards like gift cards.
4. Cashflow
   A board and digital game teaching concepts like investing, budgeting, and escaping the “rat race.” Players aim to achieve financial independence by building passive income streams, making it an engaging tool for learning real-life money management.
   
5. Dolphin Dash
   Designed for younger learners, this coin-counting and money management game by ABCYa helps kids master basic math and money skills. It encourages competition and critical thinking in classrooms and at home.
6. Animal Crossing
   In this life simulation game, players manage resources to buy, sell, and invest while learning financial concepts like taking loans and managing debt. It’s a great starting point for kids and teens to understand money in an entertaining way.
7. Financial Football
   A collaboration between the NFL and Visa, this game teaches kids aged 11-18+ about budgeting, saving, investing, and credit through a football-themed competition. Players score points by answering financial questions.
8. SaveApp Kenya
   This app gamifies saving habits by allowing users to grow virtual savings accounts while learning the importance of disciplined spending and goal setting.
9. Money Matters Board Game
   A family-friendly game that introduces financial planning, investment options, and debt management in an engaging way.
   
10. Farm to Fortune
    A simulation game where players manage a virtual farm, balancing resources and investments while navigating challenges like market fluctuations.
11. Cha-Ching Challenge
    This digital game introduces players to budgeting, saving, and spending. Developed for young learners, it teaches how to allocate income wisely to achieve financial goals.
12. Stock Market Tycoon
    This game educates players on the basics of investing in the stock market, from analyzing trends to making informed buy or sell decisions. It’s particularly popular among young adults exploring investment opportunities.

The Benefits of Game-Based Learning

• Interactive Experience: Games provide a safe environment to practice financial decision-making.
• Widespread Accessibility: Many apps are available on smartphones, ensuring reach across diverse demographics.
• Engagement: Gamification keeps players motivated and encourages consistent learning.