Kenyan teachers have rejected the Sh8.4 billion salary increment package under the second phase of the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), saying the increase offers little relief amid the rising cost of living.
The teachers' dissatisfaction is largely linked to the difference between the announced gross salary increments and the actual amount reflected in their take-home pay. For many educators, the increase reportedly translates to less than Sh1,000 or Sh2,000 per month after taxes and other statutory deductions.
Teachers' unions, including KUPPET, have argued that the adjustments are too small to address the financial pressures facing educators. They say deductions and recent changes in PAYE have further reduced the impact of the salary increases.
The unions maintain that the additional income is insufficient to meet basic needs or provide meaningful financial relief, with some teachers reportedly saying the extra amount cannot adequately support their existing financial obligations.