Gov't releases Ksh.5.6B to publishers for printing of Grade 10 textbooks

Publishers have received a major boost ahead of the rollout of senior school under the Competency-Based Curriculum after the government on Tuesday released Ksh.5.64 billion for the printing and distribution of Grade 10 textbooks.

The Ministry of Education disbursed the funds to be used in settling part of the outstanding debts owed to publishers and to facilitate the printing of 35 approved textbooks and literary works for Grade 10 learners in public schools.

The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) CEO Prof. Charles Ong’ondo, in a joint statement with the Kenya Publishers Association (KPA) Kiarie Kamau, confirmed payments to publishers and clearing of pending bills had already begun.

“KICD had already initiated the process of disbursing the funds to the 23 publishers with pending bills,” read the joint statement, adding that the money is expected to reflect in publishers’ accounts by Friday, January 9, 2026.

The two bodies further assured publishers that the government would release additional funds to clear the remaining arrears.

“Additional funds would be availed in due course to fully clear the outstanding arrears amounting to Ksh.4.4 billion,” added the statement, also noting that the move is expected to ease financial pressure within the publishing industry.

KPA welcomed the move, terming it a step towards restoring confidence between the government and publishers.

The association commended KICD for what it described as transparency during the engagement and pledged to proceed with printing even as payments are finalised.

Publishers assured the institute that they would commence printing immediately, with at least half of the books expected to be delivered to schools by January 16. Full printing and nationwide distribution is targeted to be completed by January 31, 2026.

To coordinate the rollout, KICD and KPA agreed to form an ad hoc joint committee to oversee the logistics of distribution across the country.

Both institutions expressed confidence that the process would be completed within January, averting shortages of learning materials as the first cohort of Grade 10 learners prepares to join senior school.