The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers, KUPPET Elgeyo Marakwet branch has threatened to down tools if a recent move to abolish hardship allowances is not reversed.
Speaking to the press, Branch Secretary Paul Biwott faulted the decision, which was announced in a recent gazette notice, describing it as ill-advised and inconsiderate.
“Teachers in Elgeyo Marakwet face numerous challenges daily, including insecurity, poor infrastructure, and displacement. Removing hardship allowances is a direct attack on their welfare,” said Biwott.
Biwott emphasized that educators in the Kerio Valley and other remote areas continue to endure difficult working environments that justify the allowance.
“The hardship allowance is not a privilege — it is a necessity. Without it, many teachers will be demoralized and may even quit their jobs,” he warned.
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KUPPET rejects proposed cut-back on teachers’ hardship allowances
The removal of the allowance, Biwott said, would worsen the already dire shortage of teachers in the region, as many educators may seek transfers or avoid postings in Elgeyo Marakwet altogether.
KUPPET is now calling for urgent consultations with education stakeholders, warning that the learning calendar may be severely disrupted if the concerns are not addressed.
Leaders from the County have also condemned the decision to abolish hardship allowances for public servants working in the region.
County MP Carolyne Ngelechei termed the move unfair and counterproductive, warning that it risks demoralizing teachers, police officers, and other public workers who serve in some of the country’s most challenging environments.
“The government must rethink this plan. Scrapping hardship allowances will demoralize the very people keeping our schools running and our communities safe,” said Ngelechei.
Ngelechei emphasized that many parts of Elgeyo Marakwet, especially along the volatile Kerio Valley belt, remain underdeveloped, insecure, and inaccessible — factors that justify the continued payment of the allowances.
“Officers posted here often brave insecurity, long treks to work, and lack of basic services. Taking away the hardship allowance is not just unjustified — it’s a betrayal,” Ngelechei added.
The stakeholders want the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to review the gazette notice and hold consultations with stakeholders before implementing any changes, warning that the move could worsen the staffing crisis in public institutions, as many professionals may seek transfers to other regions.
By KIMUTAI LANGAT
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