The evolution of teacher salaries in Kenya is a powerful story of growth, struggle, and reform. Over the decades, teachers have fought for better pay and recognition. Understanding the teacher pay history Kenya has experienced helps contextualize today’s salary scales and what lies ahead.
Let’s unpack how teacher salaries have changed since independence—with real figures, union action, and official reforms.
1960s–1970s: Starting Point After Independence
In the early years after 1963, many primary school teachers earned as little as KSh 450–600 per month. There was no unified system—hence the push for structure.
The formation of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in 1967 helped lay the historical teacher salary scale, though disparities remained.
- No defined grading system
- Allowances were minimal
- Rural teachers earned less due to lack of hardship compensation
1980s–1990s: Rise in Union Pressure and Promised Reforms
This era was marked by vocal unions and nationwide strikes. The teachers strike salary demands focused on cost of living adjustments and allowances.
In 1997, teachers secured a historic agreement via salary negotiations TSC KNUT—promising a 150–200% pay rise implemented over 5 years.
However, only the first phase was honored promptly. A primary teacher could earn:
- From KSh 4,000 to 7,000 in early 90s
- Up to KSh 12,000 to 18,000 by the late 90s (if fully implemented)
See more: KNUT-TSC 1997 Pay Agreement
2000s–2010: Structured Reviews and Phased Increments
In the 2000s, regular TSC salary reviews began. By 2010, job groups were in place, from J (entry level) to R (senior principal).
Approximate gross salaries by 2010:
- Primary Teacher (Job Group G–J): KSh 15,000–24,000
- Secondary Teacher (Job Group K–L): KSh 28,000–40,000
- Deputy Principal (Job Group M–P): KSh 60,000–95,000
These changes in teacher salary Kenya were slow but steady. Allowances became more structured—house, commuter, hardship.
Source: Public Service Commission Report 2010
2017–2021: New CBAs and Career Progression Guidelines
The signing of the 2017–2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) marked a major shift. It introduced:
- Grading changes from alphabetical (G–R) to B5 to D5
- Implementation of Career Progression Guidelines (CPG)
- Emphasis on academic credentials and performance for promotions
Kenyan teacher pay rise timeline during this period looked like:
- Primary Teacher II (B5): KSh 21,756 – KSh 27,195
- Senior Teacher I (C2): KSh 34,955 – KSh 43,694
- Principal (D3): KSh 104,644 – KSh 127,585
- Chief Principal (D5): Up to KSh 157,656
See official TSC structure: TSC Salary Scales PDF
This CBA was seen as a fair attempt at resolving teacher salary changes since independence, though implementation faced union resistance.
2021–Present: Post-COVID Reforms and Current Figures
The 2021–2025 CBA shifted focus to non-monetary benefits due to budget constraints. However, salary increments teachers Kenya expected have resumed gradually.
As of 2024:
- Primary Teacher (B5): Avg. KSh 26,000
- Secondary Teacher (C3): Avg. KSh 49,000
- Principal (D1–D3): KSh 91,000 – KSh 125,000
- Chief Principal (D5): Up to KSh 159,000
TSC has continued adjusting hardship and housing allowances based on education reforms Kenya salaries recommendations.
Check latest data: Kenya Gazette Notice – TSC Salaries 2024
Looking Ahead: What Teachers Can Expect
The evolution of teacher salaries in Kenya is far from over. While progress has been made, challenges persist—especially in addressing disparities between urban and rural postings, and between diploma and degree holders.
What remains clear is that teacher advocacy, union action, and education policy will continue to shape the future of salaries.
Whether you’re new to the profession or a veteran educator, staying informed is key to navigating the ever-changing pay landscape.
