Matiang’i faults govt for delaying school capitation funds
By Kiprono Keileb, October 12, 2025Former Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has faulted the government over delays in releasing school capitation funds, saying the situation has left teachers struggling to keep schools running as the term nears its end.
Speaking through a post on his X account on Sunday, October 12, 2025, Matiang’i questioned how schools are expected to operate without money while teachers are being instructed not to send learners home for lack of fees.
He described the situation as “madness” and urged the government to prioritise education funding the way it once did.
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“Nimesikia vile mumesema na nimeitika; kazi niko tayari kuifanya hata kama ni kesho. Nashangaa watu wananiuliza mambo ya capitation ya education. Wakati wetu education na security ilikuwa inapewa pesa kabla ya mazungumzo mengine,” he said.
The former CS, who has been vocal about the state of public service and education, said he regularly speaks to teachers across the country and understands the frustrations they are going through.
He noted that many schools are struggling to buy food, pay non-teaching staff, and sustain basic operations because of the delayed funds.
“Naongeanga na walimu wengi kwa sababu ni my colleagues; I am not able to understand what kind of madness is going on. It is three weeks to closing na hakuna capitation, wanawaandikia walimu circulars wasifukuze watoto na hatuwapei pesa. Sasa, how are they supposed to manage schools?” Matiang’i asked.
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Capitation funds are meant to help schools cover operational costs, including learning materials, utility bills, and minor repairs. Many head teachers have, in recent weeks, raised an alarm that their institutions are on the brink of shutdown due to the delay.
Matiang’i’s remarks come at a time when public schools are struggling to finish the third term smoothly, with parents and teachers alike expressing concern about the financial strain.
He reminded the government that education and security are the backbone of the nation and should always come first in resource allocation. “When we were in office, education and security got funds before any other discussion,” he concluded.
His comments echo a growing public outcry, as schools await disbursement of funds even as the academic calendar nears closure.