Parents in Bomet and Kericho counties have appealed to the government to intervene and prevent an increase in transport fares and the cost of school items ahead of the reopening of schools next week.
The concerns come in the wake of a recent fuel price hike announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), a move that has already triggered a rise in the cost of travel and basic commodities across the country.
Led by Mercy Kirui, the parents voiced their worries during a meeting in Ndanai, Sotik Sub-county. Kirui warned that many families are already under financial strain and would struggle to cope with any additional costs.
“Most parents are struggling to make ends meet, and it would be unfair to increase fares and the cost of school items at this time,” she said.
Kirui added that the rising cost of education in Kenya is becoming increasingly unsustainable, urging the government to act swiftly.
“It is worrying that the cost of education is becoming unbearable. The government must urgently address this issue,” she noted.
Margarett Busienei echoed the concerns, cautioning that higher costs could push some students out of school.
“We fear that many learners could drop out if these costs continue to rise. This is a situation that must be prevented by all means,” she said.
Busienei also called for subsidies on learning materials, describing their current prices as a threat to access to education.
Other parents, including Selina Langat, Florence Soi and Marcella Korir, urged the government to ensure the timely disbursement of capitation funds to schools, saying delays have previously disrupted learning in public institutions.
READ ALSO: Over 1.1 million secondary students miss capitation funds as budget deficits widen
“Delayed capitation has affected learning activities in public schools. Funds must be released on time,” they said.
EPRA recently announced a sharp increase in fuel prices for the April 15 to May 14, 2026 pricing cycle, driven largely by high landing costs linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Diesel recorded its steepest rise in over two decades, intensifying pressure on household budgets and the overall cost of living.
By Kimutai Langat
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