As schools reopen today, tension is visible across Kampala’s city centre, where parents are crowding markets, streets, and shops in a last-minute scramble for school supplies.
Traders in downtown areas say they prepared early for the back-to-school season, stocking a wide range of books, pens, pencils, school bags, and uniforms in anticipation of high demand.
Yet, despite the visible activity in shops, many admit that buyer turnout is noticeably lower than in previous years.
Samuel Musoke, a trader from Kikuubo, said the rising cost of scholastic materials is discouraging many parents from purchasing everything their children need at once.
Parents expressed frustration over high prices, noting that costs are far beyond what they can currently afford.
Many said their financial situations have been strained in recent months, partly due to disruptions during the recent political period, which affected incomes and businesses.
Some parents were observed prioritizing only essential items while postponing other purchases in hopes of finding money later in the term.
Educationist Dr Lawrence Muganga warns that this financial pressure could affect learners’ preparedness, as some students may report to school without all the necessary materials.
As the academic year begins, both traders and parents remain caught between the need to equip children for school and the harsh economic realities facing households across the city.
