The government has assured schools across Kenya that capitation funds will be disbursed by January 31, 2025, to support the smooth running of the first term of the academic year. National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi confirmed that while schools reopened this week, learners in both primary and secondary institutions may experience some delays in receiving the full capitation amounts. In a bid to avert a financial crisis, the Ministry of Education is collaborating closely with the National Treasury to expedite the release of funds.
Mbadi acknowledged the concerns raised by school administrators over the delayed disbursement, particularly as schools began the new term. However, he urged patience, explaining that January and February are typically months of slow revenue collection for the government. Despite the delay, Mbadi assured that the government has prioritized capitation funds along with other key obligations, including loan repayments, salaries for government employees, and allocations to county governments.
To ensure continuity in learning, the Education Cabinet Secretary, Julius Ogamba, confirmed that 50% of the capitation funds would be made available to schools as they reopened. This measure is aimed at ensuring that schools are not financially crippled during the opening weeks of the academic year.
The total amount set aside for this first tranche of capitation is Sh48.38 billion, with Sh4.1 billion allocated to public primary schools, Sh28.9 billion designated for day secondary schools, and Sh15.3 billion earmarked for day junior secondary schools. While the full amount may not be available by the end of January, Mbadi emphasized that at least half of the total sum would be disbursed if the government faces challenges in mobilizing the full amount.
Mbadi reassured school heads that despite the funding delays, salaries for school workers would be paid on time, and learning should proceed without major disruptions. The government remains committed to supporting education and will continue to work toward ensuring timely disbursements in the future.
