Learning disrupted as schools struggle with absenteeism, closures

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Nairobi commuters from Eastlands walk their way to work on Jogoo road as matatu operators protest surging fuel costs and new tax levies on May 18, 2026.[Stafford Ondego, Standard]

The ongoing fuel crisis and nationwide matatu go-slow have begun taking a heavy toll on the education sector, with several schools across the country recording low attendance, delayed learning, and in some cases complete closure as parents and teachers struggle with the disruptions.

A spot check conducted on Monday morning painted a grim picture of how the transport paralysis is rippling through classrooms, exposing the vulnerability of schools and families already weighed down by the rising cost of living.

At Jabali Christian School in Imara Daima, learning did not take place at all. The institution remained closed, with the gate guard turning away visitors and declining to comment on the situation.