Today’s note is for my brother FCPA John Mbadi, Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury.
One word: Defunding basic education is a path to poverty. I am certain, as a seasoned financial expert, you would prefer to leave behind a legacy of growth, not stagnation or regression.
The ongoing debate about defunding education and the disturbing support it receives from some MPs, like Florence Jematiah, underscores how deeply we have misunderstood the role of education in nation building.
Her remarks suggesting that free education lowers standards and breeds irresponsibility among parents are not only unfortunate, they are ignorant and dangerous.
It is ironic that someone who benefits from public office can stand against the very foundation that builds future leadership. If she had been truly empowered by quality education, she would know that free, accessible education is not a luxury, it is a constitutional promise and a developmental necessity.
Treasury must heed the wisdom of Horace Mann, who said, “Education is the great equalizer of the conditions of men.” Mann championed public education as the tool through which societies bridge inequality and unlock individual and collective potential.
Kenya cannot afford to walk backwards. We must invest more in free basic education, not less. The money exists. It is in the bloated budgets for empowerment workshops, endless helicopter rides, unchecked per diems, and inflated domestic subsistence allowances.
It is in efficient tax collection reforms. It is in anti corruption campaigns. It is buried deep in the inefficiencies of our public systems, including overpriced contracts and questionable payouts in public health.
CS Mbadi, let us redirect these funds toward what matters: free education, universal healthcare, subsidized seeds and fertilizers, social housing, and affordable mobility for all.
A country that truly believes in dignity must prioritize education.
Because education must be free.
