Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia has announced a major salary increment for Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) teachers in the county, with the new pay structure set to take effect from June 2026.
The move is expected to benefit hundreds of nursery school teachers who have served for years under low wages despite playing a critical role in the education sector.
Speaking during an engagement with women and youth at the Njuri Ncheke Shrine, Governor Mutuma said his administration has prioritised improving the welfare of ECDE teachers after years of complaints over poor pay.
He noted that many teachers employed by the county government in 2013 have remained stagnant on salaries of KSh7,000 for years, a situation he described as unfair considering the responsibilities they carry in early childhood education.
The governor acknowledged that the rising cost of living has made it difficult for many teachers to sustain themselves and their families.
He said his administration has therefore reviewed the payment structure in a bid to ensure teachers receive salaries that reflect their qualifications, experience, and contribution to the education sector in the county.
“I know many ECDE teachers have struggled for years. Since they were employed in 2013, most of them have remained stuck at a salary of only KSh7,000, which is far too little considering the work they do,” said Governor Mutuma.
Mutuma explained that the salary review was part of reforms introduced after he assumed office nearly one year ago, following the impeachment of former governor Kawira Mwangaza.
He noted that improving the welfare of county workers remains one of the key pillars of his administration, especially for employees working in sectors that directly touch on the lives of ordinary residents.
Under the new structure, the lowest-paid ECDE teacher will earn KSh34,000 per month while those holding bachelor’s degrees will earn up to KSh56,000.
The governor said the county government wants teachers to work in a dignified environment where they feel motivated and appreciated for the services they offer to young learners across Meru County.
“Starting this June, the lowest-paid teacher will earn KSh34,000, while teachers with bachelor’s degrees will take home up to KSh56,000. We want our teachers to work with dignity and motivation,” said Governor Mutuma.
In addition, Governor Mutuma also defended his leadership style, saying he believes development and empowerment should take priority over politics driven by handouts and intimidation.
He challenged residents to support leaders who focus on long-term transformation projects rather than short-lived political excitement that does not improve the lives of the people.
The governor said Meru County requires visionary leadership that prioritises projects capable of uplifting communities economically and socially.
He noted that leadership should be measured by development achievements and the ability to empower residents rather than through political threats.
“We have brought a police training college closer to the people of Igembe, so families will no longer travel long distances for police pass-out ceremonies. More importantly, the institution will help strengthen security in this region,” said Governor Mutuma.
Mutuma further noted that his administration is also working on improving security in the northern grazing zones that have, in recent years, experienced insecurity challenges.
He said the establishment of the police training college in Igembe will not only benefit families with children in the police service but also help increase security presence in the region.
Further, the county boss hit out at critics who accuse him of being too soft in leadership, maintaining that force and intimidation should never define leadership.
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He insisted that a good leader should inspire confidence among the people through service delivery, discipline, and respect for the rule of law.
“This county needs leadership built on respect, discipline, and vision, not intimidation. A good leader should inspire people through service and development,” said Governor Mutuma.
By John Majau.
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