ABSTRACT Recent research statistics has shown that primary education level is faced by myriad of challenges. Kenyans cannot afford to complacent about it, thus there arise an immediate need to conduct an investigation on the issue of socio-economic influences on pupils academic performance. The study adopted a descriptive research design. This enhanced the researcher to obtain a better understanding of the socio-economic factors affecting academic performance of pupils in Matunwa zone, Kiogoro Division Kisii Central district, Kenya. The method chosen allowed a collection of comprehensive and intensive data and provided an in-depth understanding of the topic understudy. Information collected was analyzed and edited to create consistency and completeness. After collecting the questionnaires they were edited for completeness and consistency across the respondents and to locate omissions. Information obtained from the research study was presented and analyzed using bar charts, narratives, and statistical figures. This report provides suggestions for more effective practice in the field of primary level education and measures based on the lessons learned from practical experience of the respondents. It is designed for policy makers, planners and stakeholders who have responsibilities in the education sector in the country.