Nairobi, Kenya – The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) is urging the government to release overdue capitation funds before schools reopen for the new term, warning that delays threaten to cripple public education. Speaking on 17 August, KNUT chairman Timothy Mbae said some schools have not received their allocations for months, leaving headteachers unable to pay suppliers, support staff and utility bills.

Mbae cautioned that withholding funds undermines the government’s promise of free primary and secondary education and could push frustrated youths toward crime and social unrest. He reminded authorities that education is a constitutional right and argued that chronic underfunding erodes classroom resources, teacher morale and student performance. The union called on Parliament to summon Education Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi to explain the delays and to secure guarantees for timely disbursement.

Earlier this year, Mbadi sparked controversy by saying the government could no longer sustain free education, drawing sharp criticism from civil society and opposition leaders. President William Ruto later affirmed that his administration remains committed to free basic education and pledged to roll out new initiatives, such as school feeding programmes and infrastructure upgrades. KNUT wants the government to honour those commitments and publish a disbursement schedule so schools can plan effectively.

Education analysts note that capitation funds have been erratic since the COVID‑19 pandemic, forcing some schools to send students home or impose extra levies. They warn that delays exacerbate inequalities, as well‑resourced private schools continue operating while public institutions struggle. Parents’ associations have joined the chorus, urging the Treasury to prioritise education over non‑essential spending.

The Ministry of Education says it is working with the Treasury to expedite payments and has blamed cash‑flow challenges on revenue shortfalls. It insists that funds will be released before the new term begins. In the meantime, teachers have threatened to take industrial action if their demands are ignored, setting the stage for a showdown as schools prepare to reopen.