NATIONAL TREASURY AND TSC COMMIT TO TIMELY DISBURSEMENT OF TEACHERS’ RETIREMENT BENEFITS

The National Treasury and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring timely disbursement of retirement benefits to teachers through enhanced digitization and system reforms.

Appearing before the National Assembly’s Select Committee on Implementation, officials from both institutions outlined a comprehensive plan to automate and digitize teachers’ records. The move is expected to streamline communication and significantly reduce delays in processing pensions and other retirement benefits.

The session, held at Bunge Tower, was convened to review the implementation of House resolutions arising from Public Petition No. 46 of 2023, presented by Peter Shake on behalf of retired teachers.

Secretary for Pensions Michael Kagika, representing the Principal Secretary for the National Treasury, said the ongoing automation would eliminate the need for physical file transfers between TSC and the Treasury.

“Technology is addressing the delays caused by lost or misplaced files. The government has successfully piloted and is now rolling out the electronic Pensions Management Information System (e-PMIS) across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies,” he said.

Committee members, led by Chairperson Raphael Wanjala, raised concerns over bureaucratic requirements that have forced retired or deceased teachers and their families to submit multiple documents—including KRA PINs, tax compliance certificates, and initial payslips—before accessing benefits.

Wanjala criticized the delays, noting that some retirees pass away before receiving their pensions and alleging instances where teachers are asked to pay facilitation fees.

In response, TSC Chief Executive Officer Eveleen Mitei clarified that the Pensions Act prohibits the Commission from making deductions directly from pension payments, which contributes to prolonged verification processes. She added that the Commission has established mechanisms to engage retirees and resolve any outstanding liabilities amicably.

On staffing matters, Mitei revealed that 21,383 teachers were promoted during the 2025/2026 financial year, with KSh 2 billion proposed in the 2026/2027 budget to facilitate further promotions.

Regarding intern teachers, she noted that the government plans to absorb 20,000 out of the current 44,000 interns in the upcoming financial year, although funding for the remaining 24,000 has not yet been secured. She also referenced a recent Court of Appeal ruling on teacher interns February 27 2026, stating that consultations are ongoing to align implementation with budgetary and legal frameworks.

The Committee directed TSC to strengthen collaboration with the National Treasury’s pensions office to ensure a more efficient system that guarantees teachers a dignified and timely retirement.