Educators in Nairobi Call for Increased Allowances Amid Rising Costs

In July 2025, educators in Nairobi called for increased allowances due to rising living costs, prompting the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to revise its compensation structure under a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Amid growing economic pressure, teachers across Nairobi voiced concerns over stagnant allowances that no longer matched the city’s cost of living. The push intensified in mid-2025 as inflation, housing costs, and transportation expenses continued to climb. Educators demanded adjustments to hardship, commuter, house, and disability allowances, arguing that their current compensation failed to reflect the financial realities of urban life. Union leaders from KNUT and KUPPET joined the call, urging the government to honor its commitment to fair remuneration and teacher welfare.
In response, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) signed a new 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) on July 18, 2025, with implementation beginning July 31, 2025. The revised package includes increased rates for house, hardship, commuter, disability, baggage, and annual leave allowances across all job groups. Acting TSC CEO Evaleen Mitei announced the changes during a Master Trainers’ workshop at the Kenya Institute of Special Education, emphasizing that the adjustments were part of Phase One of the CBA rollout. The new salary structure also benefits classroom teachers and school administrators, with phased increments planned over the four-year period.
The official circular released on August 2, 2025, outlined the allowance revisions and grading adjustments, confirming that the changes would be reflected in teachers’ pay from July 2025 onward. Nairobi educators welcomed the move but noted that further reviews may be needed to keep pace with inflation and urban challenges. This is a step forward, but we must continue advocating for sustainable support, said a headteacher from Dagoretti. Education stakeholders have called for regular reviews and stronger dialogue between teachers, unions, and policymakers.
The allowance revision is expected to improve morale and retention among Nairobi’s teaching workforce, especially in high-cost areas. As Kenya continues to implement CBC and expand teacher responsibilities, fair compensation remains central to education reform and quality delivery.