6 in 10 Kenyan pupils cannot read at grade level, highlighting a major challenge facing the country’s education system. A citizen-led national assessment found that 60% of Grade Four pupils could not read a text written for Grade Three learners.
The problem goes beyond reading ability. About 79% of Kenyan children at late primary school age cannot read proficiently, while 19% of primary-school-aged children are not attending school at all.
During National Reading Day 2026 in Nairobi, Secretary to the Cabinet Mercy Wanjau described reading as a national investment in human capital. She noted that children who develop strong reading skills are more likely to perform well in school and contribute to Kenya’s future development.
Poor literacy also has an economic impact. According to estimates by the World Literacy Foundation, illiteracy costs Kenya about US$735 million every year through lost productivity, reduced earnings and lower participation in the workforce.
Kenya is not alone in facing this challenge. Globally, about 739 million adults cannot read. The World Literacy Foundation is working across five continents to improve literacy by providing books, learning spaces and educational programmes to children and adults.
The issue will also be discussed at the World Literacy Summit, which will be held at Oxford University from March 31 to April 3, 2027. The summit will bring together researchers, educators and policymakers from more than 85 countries under the theme “Literacy in a Connected World.”
Literacy specialists working to address Kenya’s regional learning gaps are also invited to submit papers for a chance to speak at the summit. Applications are open until August 30, 2026.
The World Literacy Foundation says 92% of every donation it receives goes directly towards books, learning spaces and literacy programmes for children and adults who need support.
The foundation operates in 54 countries and aims to help eradicate illiteracy by 2040. Its work focuses on ensuring that every child and adult has access to books, learning opportunities and the ability to read.