Parents in Mombasa on Sunday thronged bookshops, uniform outlets, and open-air markets as they made last-minute preparations for the reopening of schools for the 2026 academic year.
A spot check by the Kenya News Agency found hundreds of parents moving from one shop to another, clutching long lists of required items, in a frantic effort to purchase textbooks, uniforms, and other learning materials for their children. Many were seen opting for second-hand books and uniforms as a cost-saving measure.
Several parents expressed concern over the sharply increased prices of uniforms, textbooks, and other school requirements, saying the rising cost of living has stretched household budgets to the limit.
“I have come to buy textbooks for my children, but the prices have sharply increased, overstretching my budget,” said Jane Muthoni, a parent shopping in the central business district.
Another parent, Ebrahim Khamis, said he was forced to make difficult choices due to limited finances and appealed to schools to understand the challenges parents are facing.
“The textbooks are expensive. We will buy what we can and ask teachers to understand the situation we are in. The new Competency-Based Curriculum has more requirements compared to the former education system,” he said.
Shop owners and licensed traders also reported reduced sales, noting that many parents were opting to buy cheaper, second-hand items sold in back streets due to financial constraints.
Fatma Somji, the owner of Somco Bookshop, said the current economic situation has made it difficult for parents to fully meet school requirements.
“Things are expensive, and the current education system is more demanding because learners are required to buy more practical materials. Parents are really struggling,” she noted.
The 2026 academic year is set to begin on January 5, with Term One lasting 13 weeks and ending on April 2. The term will include a five-day mid-term break from February 25 to March 1.
Meanwhile, passengers also thronged various bus stations across Mombasa to book tickets as they traveled back to their home counties after the festive season. Many travelers complained of a sharp increase in transport fares.
Travelers urged drivers to exercise caution, obey traffic rules, and avoid overspeeding to ensure safe journeys during the busy travel period.
Joseph Bwire, a parent traveling to Siaya County, said families are facing multiple challenges as they dig deeper into their pockets to cater for transport fares and school-related expenses.
“Fares have been doubled, and this is very frustrating for most travelers,” said Bwire.
Paul Nabiswa echoed the concerns, calling on the government to address the high cost of fuel to help reduce transport fares. He, however, lauded the National Transport and Safety Authority and the National Police Service for intensifying road safety campaigns, which he said have significantly reduced road carnage during peak travel periods.
By Mohamed Hassan
