Ever heard the Swahili saying “Leo ni leo, asemaye kesho ni muongo”? It’s one of those phrases that sticks, and for good reason. It translates to “Today is today, whoever says tomorrow is a liar.”
Sounds harsh? Maybe. But money-wise, it’s gold. Because in the world of saving, investing, and even repaying loans, “later” is often just another way of saying “never.”
Let’s be honest: how many times have we said, “I’ll start saving next month,” only for that “next month” to become next year? Exactly.
The Silent Cost of Waiting
Procrastination is the silent thief of money. Here’s what it looks like in real life:
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You promise yourself to start saving next month. Next month becomes the one after, and suddenly, you’re still broke and Christmas is knocking.
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You think, “I’ll repay this loan later.” Suddenly, “later” is now interest + penalties + unnecessary stress.
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You say, “I’ll start my business someday.” That “someday” doesn’t appear in any calendar.
Procrastination is like leaving unga in hot water and expecting ugali to cook itself. It doesn’t happen!!!
Even the rich know this. Ndindi Nyoro, one of Kenya’s wealthiest politicians and entrepreneurs, is famous for saying that wealth is built not by waiting for perfect conditions but by taking calculated action today. He started small, invested wisely, and scaled strategically. No “kesho” excuses.
Why Acting Today Changes Everything
Money loves action-takers. The earlier you start, the better:
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Saving early = more growth. Even a small stash builds into a big cushion if you start now.
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Investing early = compounding magic. Look at African billionaires like Strive Masiyiwa (founder of Econet). He started his telecom venture in Zimbabwe despite uncertainty, disciplined in his spending, and consistently reinvested profits. Today, his empire spans across Africa.
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Repaying early = freedom. Clear your debts quickly, and doors open for bigger opportunities like easier access to credit and higher trust with lenders.
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Seizing opportunities today = winning tomorrow. Business deals, stock availability, school fees deadlines etc. Life won’t wait for your hesitations.
Take even Kenya’s own Chris Kirubi (RIP), what separated him from the rest was action coupled with discipline. He didn’t wait for perfect timing; he created it.
Even Warren Buffett, the oracle of Omaha, has often emphasized: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” Financial wisdom rarely rewards indecision.
Practical Steps: Make ‘Leo ni Leo’ Your Money Mantra
Here’s how to stop believing in “kesho” and start acting:
- Save something today. Even KSh 50 is a seed. Start your savings challenge now.
- Repay smartly, pay early. Unlock higher credit limits and avoid CRB headaches.
- Budget the moment money hits your wallet. Give it a job before it disappears.
- Borrow responsibly. Zenka helps you seize urgent needs or golden opportunities but only if you plan carefully.
Real-life example: Imagine you have a small business selling phone accessories. You delay restocking because “next week seems better.” By the time you act, competitors have taken your customers. Small action today could mean more profit, more growth, and more freedom tomorrow.
Ndindi Nyoro built a reputation for discipline and strategic risk-taking. He didn’t wait for perfect conditions; he analyzed, acted, and scaled. This is what “leo ni leo” is about – creating momentum today.
The Risk Factor: Fear and procastination is Expensive
Big wealth doesn’t grow on fear. The rich understand that calculated risks today can pay massive dividends tomorrow.
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Tony Elumelu invested in small African startups when others scoffed now, he’s a multi-billionaire and a mentor to thousands of young African entrepreneurs.
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Chris Kirubi invested in Centum early, knowing there were hurdles. His discipline and timing created generational wealth.
The lesson? “Kesho” is often fear disguised as procrastination. Don’t let it rob you of opportunity.
Final Word: Later is a Lie
Money doesn’t reward people who say “kesho.” It rewards those who act today.
So next time you hear “Leo ni leo, asemaye kesho ni muongo”, let it be your financial anthem. Start small, start smart, and start now. Whether it’s a tiny savings habit, repaying a loan, or investing in a small venture, your tomorrow will thank you.
Because in money matters, one truth always stands:
👉🏽 Today is worth more than tomorrow.
Until next time, Cheers!!
