In Kenya, many children can't afford free education

The fishmonger, who specializes in Mgongo Wazi (fish bones remaining after filleting) at Kisumu’s Koginga Beach in Nyanza Province in Kenya, says she cannot afford to send her five children to school. “Employing adults is too costly. Besides, where do I get the money to buy school uniforms and for bus fare?” she asks. Scenes of children airing mosquito nets, used as fishing nets, in preparation for night fishing expeditions are common along the beaches of Lake Victoria. Many of them are from poverty–stricken homes headed by children or caregivers to bed–ridden parents living with AIDS. Although the government has spent more than US$500 million on free primary education, overcrowding and teacher shortages continue to impede enrollment, retention of students, and quality of education. Read about the situation at allAfrica.com.