Kenya Publishers Association Chairperson Kiarie Kamau./Photo file

Kenya Publishers Association (KPA) has raised alarm over delayed government payments amounting to Ksh3 billion for the supply of Grade 9 textbooks this year, even as the 26th Nairobi International Book Fair approaches.

Speaking during a press briefing, KPA Chairperson Kiarie Kamau said publishers have already delivered books worth Ksh200 million to ensure every learner has access to at least one textbook, with another major round of supply scheduled between October and December for senior schools.

Kamau further stated that piracy continues to cost the industry up to Ksh250 million annually, with illegal copies being sold at throw-away prices in the market.

He further criticized the imposition of 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) on books, saying it has made reading materials increasingly unaffordable for many families amid a tough economic climate.

“By taxing books, we tax education. We urge the government to scrap VAT on books to enhance access to knowledge,” he said.

Kamau emphasized that clearing the outstanding debt, reviewing the VAT, and addressing book piracy are critical steps that the government must take to ensure timely access to quality textbooks.

“The government and publishers must work together to protect the integrity of learning materials and ensure that learners receive what they deserve,” Kamau added.

The government is yet to respond to the publishers’ appeal.

Despite these challenges, KPA members remain committed to supporting the education sector.

Kamau announced that each publishing house will adopt a Nairobi primary school for tree planting as part of the government’s “go green” initiative, in recognition of the tonnes of paper consumed in publishing every year.