Teachers Strike Across Kenya as Term Two Begins

Teachers in several parts of Kenya have begun industrial action as the second school term starts, increasing pressure on the government and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to address disputes over employment terms, healthcare, and allowances.

The protests, organised by the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), reflect growing dissatisfaction among educators who say that proposed reforms have not been implemented. In Machakos, Junior Secondary School teachers have stopped working, demanding permanent and pensionable employment for 44,000 intern teachers currently serving nationwide. 

KUPPET officials state that parliamentary funding is required to formalise these positions and warn that delays could disrupt the academic calendar. In Homa Bay, union leaders have pointed to a March Court of Appeal ruling that found internship-based employment unlawful. 

Teachers there are also seeking greater control over the management of Junior Secondary Schools, including authority over leadership appointments and operational structures. Concerns about healthcare under the Social Health Insurance (SHA) scheme have also been raised. 

Teachers in Homa Bay report limited access to services, with only one accredited hospital per subcounty. In Kajiado, educators say the previous provider, Minet, offered more reliable coverage. In Vihiga, teachers have announced a 14-day strike, citing capped medical benefits and the exclusion of services such as fertility care.

These concerns persist despite an earlier agreement between SHA, TSC, KUPPET and KNUT to remove co-payments at accredited facilities. In Samburu, teachers are preparing to protest the removal of hardship allowances following a government decision to reclassify the region. 

Educators argue that the area still faces significant challenges, including insecurity and banditry, and that the withdrawal of allowances does not reflect current conditions.