The government has put on notice schools that are selling uniforms, as it moves to crack down on suppliers who are colluding with learning institutions in the trade.
Industry, Trade and Investment CS Moses Kuria says the practice has locked out hundreds of businesses and manufacturers from the business, with a few individuals cashing in.
"Schools have no business selling uniforms. Learning institutions should focus on academics," Kuria said.
The disadvantage is in public schools where the country has up to 30,000 primary schools and 10,000 secondary schools.
A few manufacturers and suppliers are said to benefit from deals entered with schools for the supply of uniforms and other materials.
"It is unacceptable and unsustainable. School uniform business should be liberalised not for cartels to deny others business," Kuria said during a media briefing, at the ministry's office at the Two Rivers Mall.
The government, he said, will also review the countries ' textbooks policy in a move aimed at flashing out cartels, and opening the business to more players.
"We encourage other players to venture into the space. Schools will not be used by a few people," Kuria said, noting the Kenya Kwanza government bottom-up economy module must prevail.
The CS said a crackdown on schools is underway to ensure no institution is selling uniforms to parents and students.
He said parents have the freedom to choose where they want to buy uniforms.