CAK opens investigations on collusion in uniform sales

The competition watchdog has initiated investigations into schools directing parents to buy uniform and other supplies from specific shops and making it expensive for parents.

According to the Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK), school heads are liable for prosecution and fines if found colluding with uniform manufacturers and suppliers to stifle competitive pricing and purchase.

The authority has asked parents to report such arrangements further warning suppliers and retailers with such agreements in place with schools to know they are in breach of the competition law.

“CAK advises parents that they should not be made to buy uniforms from specific shops. They are free to purchase these items from other shops as long as the quality is consistent with what the school requires. If you come across such cases kindly inform us,” the authority said on its official twitter page.

Parents have been spending thousands more for uniform owing to the exclusive deals struck by schools.

Through the deal, parents complained of paying up to Sh5,000 more for uniform .