A low number of customers observed at Gikomba uniform stalls as parents make last-minute purchases ahead of Monday’s second term reopening, on April 26, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY

A typically bustling back-to-school rush was notably absent in Gikomba Market on Sunday, as traders reported low customer turnout just a day before schools reopen for the second term on Monday, April 27.

Stalls that would ordinarily be teeming with parents scrambling for uniforms, shoes, and supplies remained relatively quiet, with traders left anxiously waiting for buyers who trickled in only occasionally.

At Kamukunji, small-scale trader Wellington Hassan spent much of his day polishing and arranging school shoes, hoping to attract last-minute customers. Rows of neatly displayed black leather shoes lined his stall, but the anticipated surge in demand failed to materialise.

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“Business is not what we expected,” he said, gesturing at the unsold stock.

“We prepared for parents to come in large numbers, but the turnout has been low.”

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A low number of customers observed at Gikomba uniform stalls as parents make last-minute purchases ahead of Monday’s second term reopening, on April 26, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY
A low number pf customers observed at Gikomba uniform stalls as parents make last-minute purchases ahead of Monday’s second term reopening, on April 26, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY
Nearby, uniform sellers echoed similar concerns. Piles of sweaters, shirts, and trousers remained largely untouched as parents appeared to delay or scale down their purchases, possibly due to the prevailing tough economic conditions.

Some traders noted that while there is usually a spike in activity on the eve of reopening, this season has been unusually slow, forcing many to reconsider pricing and stock levels.

A low number of customers observed at Gikomba uniform stalls as parents make last-minute purchases ahead of Monday’s second term reopening, on April 26, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY
Despite the sluggish sales, a handful of parents could still be seen making hurried purchases, carefully selecting essentials for their children ahead of the new term.
Small trader Wellington Hassan at Kamukunji prepares school shoes as he awaits customers ahead of Monday’s second term reopening, on April 26, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY
Traders now remain hopeful that early morning buyers on reopening day might offer a slight boost, though many admit the window for strong sales is quickly closing.

The subdued mood across Gikomba paints a stark picture of strained household budgets, even as the school calendar presses on.