NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenyan musician Waithaka wa Jane has drawn attention to the growing humanitarian challenges facing families across the country, highlighting the struggles of parents unable to afford school fees or daily necessities.
In a short video on social media, Waithaka said he has been contacted by women whose children have not yet joined school, parents pleading for help to secure employment, and individuals expressing despair at being unable to provide food or pay rent.
“My people, there is something that has really distressed me,” Waithaka said. “These messages are very humbling. If I don’t help you, it is because I’m unable to assist.”
His comments come amid persistent economic challenges in Kenya.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, who spoke to Capital FM, said that while the government has recorded a 75% transition rate of students into secondary school, there are multiple reports of bright but needy students still struggling to access education.
Kenya’s unemployment rate remains high, particularly among youth, and the rising cost of living has compounded financial pressures for families, making it difficult to cover basic needs such as food, rent, and school expenses.
Humanitarian experts warn that while government programmes aim to support vulnerable groups, the volume of families in need often exceeds available resources, leaving many relying on informal networks and community support.
“I wonder how we can help all these people. May God remember those going through hard times,” the musician said.
The musician’s appeal underscores the growing role of public figures in highlighting social issues, and the urgent need for coordinated efforts to support families facing educational and economic hardships.
Recent statistics show that unemployment remains a major challenge in Kenya, affecting millions of households.
The overall jobless rate is projected at about 7.23 percent in 2025, leaving roughly 1.76 million Kenyans without formal employment.
The situation is even more acute among young people. Nearly 12 percent of Kenyans aged 15–24 are unemployed, highlighting the difficulty youth face in finding stable work.
Experts warn that this contributes to financial stress across families, limiting their ability to pay school fees, meet daily needs, or invest in small businesses.
A recent survey also found that 26 percent of adults identify unemployment as their biggest financial burden, particularly among younger age groups.
For many households, these pressures coincide with rising living costs, creating a perfect storm where even bright and motivated students struggle to access education.
