Kimani Ichung'wah Calls for Ban on Schools Selling Uniforms Directly to Parents
National Assembly Majority Leader and Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung'wah has urged the government to introduce strict policies prohibiting schools from selling uniforms to students.
Speaking during an event in Uriri sub-county on Sunday, March 15, 2026, he criticized the widespread practice where institutions force parents to purchase uniforms exclusively from school outlets at significantly inflated prices, limiting parental choice and adding unnecessary financial pressure amid rising living costs. Ichung'wah revealed that he has already forwarded his recommendations to the Ministry of Education, expressing optimism that reforms could be implemented soon to allow families to buy from any preferred retailer or tailor.
The MP further proposed that the Ministry develop guidelines ensuring continuity in uniform designs for learners progressing from primary (grade one) to junior secondary school within the same institution, eliminating the need for new sets and preventing redundant expenses for parents. This measure aims to address complaints about schools exploiting transitions in the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to mandate fresh uniforms, even when the institution remains unchanged. Ichung'wah emphasized that such changes would promote affordability in education, empower local businesses and tailors by opening up the market, and align with broader government efforts to curb exploitative practices in schools.
His statements come against a backdrop of ongoing government directives and public outcry over uniform-related burdens, including prior warnings from authorities that schools disregarding rules on uniform sales could face disciplinary action. The proposal supports parental freedom and could reduce corruption risks tied to exclusive supplier deals, while ensuring all senior secondary schools enroll grade 10 students for equitable access to quality education. If adopted, these policies would mark a significant step toward easing the economic strain on Kenyan families and fostering fairer competition in the education sector.
