G9 Social
G9 Social
SOCIAL
STUDIES
G9
2025
SOCIAL STUDIES AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT
PATHWAY CHOICES
A career is the professional journey that one chooses to follow to purse one’s interest
and achieve one’s goal in work life
Career paths
1. Health care
Doctor
Pharmacist
Nurse
Medical researcher
2. Business and finance
Entrepreneur
Marketing manager
Accountant
Business consultant
3. Education
Teacher
School principal
Special education teacher
Education administrator
4. Law and legal services
LAWYER
Judge
Legal consultant
Legal secretary
5. Environmental and sustainability
6. Communication and media
Journalist
Content writer
Social media manager
News anchor
7. Hospitality and tourism
Travel agent
Tour guide
Identifying factors to consider in the selection of a pathway
The following are factors to consider in the selection of a career pathway:
a) Personal interests –
Choose a career that aligns with your passion and interests. Consider the activities or subjects
you enjoy the most and explore career options related to those areas.
b) Skills and abilities
Assess your strengths and abilities. Identify the skills you excel in and consider careers that
allow you to utilise and further develop those skills.
c) Values and motivations
Reflect on your values and what motivates you. Consider the type of work environment,
culture and values that are important to you and find a career that aligns with those principles.
d) Education and training
Evaluate the educational and training requirements for different career paths. Determine if you are
willing and able to pursue the necessary education or training to enter your desired field.
e) Networking opportunities
Research the networking opportunities available in different fields. Consider the importance
of professional connections and how they can contribute to career growth.
f) Personal fulfillment
Aim for a career that provides a sense of purpose and allows you to make a positive impact in
the areas that matter to you.
b) By selecting a pathway, you get a chance to discover your passions and talents.
c) It allows you to set goals and work towards achieving them. It gives you a sense of
purpose and motivation to strive for success in your chosen field.
d) It offers specialised knowledge and skills related to a specific area. It helps you gain a
deeper understanding of subjects you enjoy and prepares you for future studies.
e) It encourages personal growth and development. It allows you to challenge yourself, learn
new things and become more confident in your abilities.
f) It helps you to align your studies with your future career. By focusing on subjects relevant
to your chosen field, you build a strong foundation and gain valuable skills for future success.
g)It provides you with guidance and support from teachers and mentors who specialise in
that area. They can offer valuable guidance and help you in your academic journey.
c) School nurse's office - this is an important resource for learners who become sick or get
injured while in school. The nurse can provide first aid, administer medications and
connect learners and families with additional medical resources if needed.
d) Parent-teacher meetings - these are regular meetings between parents and teachers that allow
for open communication about a learner's progress, strengths, and areas for improvement.
These meetings help to ensure that everyone is working together to support the learner's
academic and personal growth.
Significance Explanation
Reducing regrets
Adaptability
Continuous learning
Practice approach
Informed decisions
Goal setting
Skill development
Using support systems for pre career development in the school community
A career support system helps learners in development of careers in schools through
the following ways
on their skills
Provide guidance on career options and helps to eplore different paths based
and interest and prepares them for job applications and college admissions
Alumni connect learners with graduates who can share their career experiences, offer
mentorship and provide insights into specific industries or universities.
experienced professionals who offer career advice and provide
Connects learners with
emotional support.
they help learners develop professional skills and offer
Mentors can be role models,
networking opportunities.
Provides a safe space for learners to discuss personal challenges, explore values and
meaning-making and offer spiritual guidance.
Chaplains can help learners overcome personal anxieties related to career choices,
fostering a sense of well-being that impacts career focus.
Provides support for learners facing socio-economic challenges for example,
food insecurity and housing instability that can impact their ability to focus on
career development.
and physical health and
Provides resources for learners to manage stress, improve mental
develop healthy habits that contribute to overall well-being.
Provides health resources for learners to manage stress, improve mental and physical health
and develop healthy habits that contribute to overall well-being.
b) High learner-to-counsellor ratio - schools may have a high number of students per career
counsellor making it challenging for counsellors to provide individualised guidance and support
to each student.
c) Lack of parental involvement - parents play an important role in supporting their children's career
development. However, pre-career support systems may struggle to engage parents effectively,
leading to limited parental involvement in career planning discussions and activities.
d) Limited scope - programs might focus on specific industries or job types, which might not
be ideal if you are undecided or have a unique career path.
e) Passive participation getting - the most out of support systems often requires your initiative. If
you are shy or unsure what to ask for, it can be hard to benefit fully.
Designing solutions to challenges arising from use of support systems
Challenges arising from Solutions
use of support systems
Passive participation
Accessibility
Limited scope
Feeling overwhelmed
General guidance
The following are some solutions to challenges arising from the use of support systems:
a) Be clear about your goals: Knowing what you want to achieve will help you find the
most relevant programs and resources.
b) Do not be afraid to ask questions: Advisors and mentors are there to help you navigate
the pre-career process.
c) Seek out diverse resources: Look beyond your school or a single program to find support that
fits your specific needs.
d) Take initiative: Do not wait for opportunities to come to you. Research companies,
network with professionals, and actively participate in programs.
e) Focus on what works for you: There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Experiment and find the
support systems that benefit you the most.
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COMMUNITY SERVICE LEARNING
Community service learning project
Identifying a problem or a gap in the community
We can use different methods or ways to gather information from community members
about issues affecting them. These methods or ways include:
Carrying out physical or online interviews with the community members,
Holding community gatherings or public barazas,
Issuing out questionnaires to community members for them to fill,
Carrying out case studies in the community,
Co-hosting community radio and television programmes where
Community members can share the issues affecting them.
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PEOPLE AND RELATIONSHIP
Socio Economic Practices of early Humans
Early humans did not have the improved technology and systems we have today.
Their socio economic practices were based on their basic needs and resources available to them.
Early human had a simple basic socio economic system on meeting their basic needs.
This was done through
1. Hunting
2. Gathering
3. Communal cooperation
Describing the socio economic practices of early humans in Africa during the stone
age The stone age period
to a period of time when early humans made tools and
The stone age period refers
weapons from stones.
The tools and weapons were used for different purposes
The Stone Age period is divided into three different periods. These periods are:
a) The Early Stone Age period –
It refers to the earliest stage of human history characterised by the use of simple stone tools. The
Early Stone Age represents the beginning of human technological and cultural development.
b) The Middle Stone Age period –
It follows the Early Stone Age. It is characterised by improved tool technology, cultural
developments and shifts in human behaviour.
c) The Late Stone Age period –
It follows the Middle Stone Age. It is characterised with development in agriculture. The
Late Stone Age period represents a time of significant cultural and technological
developments for early human societies.
NB
The Stone Age Period
The Stone Age period began 2 million years ago. It is divided into three stages, Early Stone
Age, Middle Stone Age and Late Stone Age. Each stage represents development in civilisation
of man.
The Early Stone Age period marks the beginning of human culture and technological
development. During this age, most Homo Habilis emerged. Because of their increased brain
size compared to Australopithecus, they used stones which were found in nature for hunting. The
stones already had a cutting edge. The humans in this age used tools such as scrapers, blades and
arrowheads.
The Middle Stone Age period is mainly characterised by the invention of fire. During this
stage, humans started to sharpen their stone tools such as scrapers, blades and arrowheads
which they used for hunting and fishing. Humans learnt how to cultivate and made farm tools
using sharpened stones and wood. They used these tools to till land. They also used stone
mortars and pestles to grind their cereals and grains.
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The Late Stone Age is the last stage of the Stone Age period. Humans developed more refined
tools, including finely crafted blades and specialised tools for specific tasks. These tools were
often made from materials such as bones showcasing increased skill in craftsmanship.
The Stone Age is said to have ended with the beginning of metalworking and the Bronze or
Iron Age.
Socio economic practices refer to the ways in which societies organize and conduct
economic activities within a social and cultural context.
Examples of socio economic practices include
1. Agriculture
2. Trading
3. Pastoralism
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Examining/ illustrating different types of tools used by early humans during stone age
period
TOOL HOW IT WAS USED
a) Hand axe a) It was used for cutting, chopping and
butchering animal carcasses.
b) Scraper b) It was used for separating the meat from the
bones and removing the skin or fur from the
animal carcass after hunting.
c) Arrowhead c) Early humans attached the arrowhead to the
arrow where the sharp point of the arrowhead
was used to penetrate the animal's flesh
ensuring a successful hunt.
d) Grinding stone d) It was used to grind grains, seeds, nuts and
other plant materials into flour, meal or paste.
e) Hammerstone It was used as a pounding tool for example to
pound roots or tubers. It was also used to break
open nuts, shape other stones and perform
various tasks that required force.
f) Digging stick The early humans used a digging stick made
from wood to loosen and turn over the soil for
planting seeds and digging up tubers.
Archaeological sites - Various archaeological sites across Africa, such as Olduvai Gorge
in Tanzania and Sterkfontein in South Africa, have yielded significant findings related to
early human technology.
Rock art - Africa is home to some of the oldest rock art sites in the world, for example,
Drankesberg Rock Art in South Africa and Brandberg Mountain in Namibia. These art
sites showcase early humans' creativity and ability to express themselves through visual
representation.
Oral traditions - African oral traditions often contain narratives and stories that refer to the
use of tools, technologies, and the transmission of knowledge through generations. They
provide valuable information into Africa's technological past.
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Indigenous Knowledge Systems in African Societies
Indigenous knowledge systems in Africa societies refer to the diverse knowledge
practices, belief and traditions that have
been developed and passed down through
generations within Africa communities.
in the cultural, social and environmental
These knowledge systems are deeply rooted
contexts of different African societies
a) Medicine - traditional healers such as herbalists, diviners and spiritual practitioners possess
deep knowledge of medicinal plants, rituals and holistic healing methods. These practices are
connected to African beliefs about the interconnectedness of humans and nature.
b) Religion - indigenous African religions are deeply intertwined with cultural practices, rituals
and belief systems. They include a diverse range of spiritual traditions and the worship of natural
elements.
f) Education - indigenous education in Africa involves oral traditions and storytelling. Elders
pass down knowledge through storytelling, proverbs and folktales thereby preserving cultural
values and history.
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i) Arts - Indigenous arts, such as music, dance and visual arts, often display cultural symbols
and spiritual concepts reflecting the interconnectedness between art, people and community.
Explaining how the indigenous systems were used for sustainability of life
Indigenous knowledge is
deeply rooted in the environment and cultural cohesion of
indigenous communities.
Indigenous knowledge has helped communities to maintain sustainable use and
management of natural resources to protect their environments.
The indigenous knowledge systemsplay a role in nature conservation, food production and
management of forestry and land.
Using indigenous and modern knowledge to manage peer influence in the society
c) Indigenous knowledge about weather patterns and seasonal indicators helps communities
to adapt to climate change and manage natural resources sustainably.
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Poverty Reduction
Poverty reduction is a global goal aimed at improving the lives of people living in
that everyone has access to basic necessities and opportunities for
poverty and ensuring
a better future.
It involves efforts to reduce poverty by addressing its root causes and implementing
strategies to uplift individuals, families and communities out of poverty.
Poverty is when someone is unable to meet the minimum they require to live a
comfortable and healthy life.
It means not having enough food, clothes or a safe place to live.
It can also mean not being able to go to school or get medical care
b) Unemployment - this contributes to low incomes and limited economic growth, leading
to widespread poverty.
c) Agricultural challenges - the majority of Africans rely on agriculture for their livelihoods,
but factors such as limited access to modern farming techniques, unpredictable weather patterns
and land degradation can hinder agricultural productivity and lead to poverty.
d) Political instability and conflict - this disrupts economic activities, damage infrastructure,
displace populations, and divert resources away from poverty alleviation efforts.
e) Limited access to credit and financial services - those in rural areas have limited access to
credit and banking services, making it difficult for them to start businesses, invest or save for
the future.
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will purchase farm inputs and benefit from advice and eventually increase production
on their land, hence more food on the table.
People must also adopt smart climate agriculture that not only increases food
production but also checks environmental degradation.
b) Food insecurity - unsustainable agricultural practices such as exploitation of land and water
resources, can result in reduced crop yields and food scarcity which can lead to poverty
among communities that rely on agriculture.
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Population structure
Population structure is the composition, distribution and characteristics of a
population in a given region.
Population structure includes various factors such as the number of individuals,
their age distribution, gender distribution, ethnic or racial composition, educational
levels, employment status and other demographic characteristics.
b) Population and household census - a population census counts the entire population
and housing information such as social and economic status.
c) Household sample survey - various surveys are conducted by research institutions and
private organizations of a country. These surveys focus on specific population groups or
topics such as migration or health.
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Low death rate: refers to a situation where the number of deaths within a population
is relatively low over a specific period. It indicates a lower rate of mortality and a
longer overall lifespan compared to other areas or time periods.
Low fertility rate refers to a situation where the average number of children born to
women within a population is relatively low over a specific period. It indicates a
lower rate of childbearing and a decrease in population growth potential.
High life expectancy refers to a situation where the average number of years a person
is expected to live is relatively long within a specific population or region. It indicates a
lower mortality rate and an extended overall lifespan compared to other areas or time
periods.
Immigration refers to the act of individuals or groups moving from one country or
region to another with the intention of settling permanently. Therefore, the
population structure for Germany has a relatively higher ageing population than the
young population.
c) The population structure of a country determines the shape of the population pyramid (age-sex
pyramid).
3. The population pyramid of a developing country has a broad base while that of
a developed country has a narrow base.
Pupils activity
Page 83-87
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Compare and contrast the population structure of Kenya and germany
The following are among the similarities between the population structures of Kenya and
Germany:
a) Migration patterns – each country has experienced or continues to experience both internal
and international migration. Germany has attracted immigrants for employment while in Kenya,
there is a significant internal migration from rural to urban areas, leading to population growth
in cities. There is also significant migration of Kenyans to other countries for further studies and
work.
b) Gender imbalance – while the extent may vary, all three countries face some degree of
gender imbalance in their population structures.
The following are the differences between population structures in Kenya and Germany:
KENYA GERMANY
It has a low urban population It has a high urban population
It has a lower life expectancy compared to It has a relatively high life expectancy
Germany
It has a large population of youthful population It has a high aging population with a growing
proportion
It has high birth rates compared to Germany It has been experiencing low birth rates for
several years .
This has resulted in a declining population
growth rate
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Peaceful conflict resolution
PEACEFUL CONFLICT RESOLUTION is a process that emphasizes dialogue,
understanding and cooperation to reach mutually beneficial solutions.
It promotes non violence, empathy and respect for all parties involved.
a) Poor or ineffective communication. When people don't express their needs, concerns
or emotions clearly, misunderstandings and conflicts can intensify.
b) Strong emotions such as anger, frustration or fear can hinder conflict resolution.
c) Failing to understand and empathise with the opinions and emotions of others can
hinder conflict resolution.
The following are some of the ways of overcoming barriers to peaceful conflict resolution.
a) Improving communication skills by enhancing active listening, effective expression
and clarity in communication.
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d) Practising patience and flexibility to promote a mindset that values collaboration and
finding common ground.
Embracing peace initiatives and agreements at the community level for harmonious living
Pupils’ activity
Page 100-101
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Healthy relationship
Sustaining healthy relationships means nurturing relationships, understanding each
other's needs and working together to overcome challenges.
Learning how to sustain healthy relationships is a lifelong skill that can bring
us happiness and fulfilment.
We can sustain healthy relationships with our parents, siblings, friends, schoolmates
or neighbours.
c) Practising empathy by putting yourself in other people's shoes helps to create a supportive
and understanding environment in a relationship hence sustains healthy relationships.
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NATURAL AND HISTORIC BUILT
ENVIRONMENT TOPOGRAPHICAAL MAPS
Topographical maps provide a detailed representation of the Earths;s surface,
showcasing its natural and natural and man made features.
These maps use contour lines symbols and colours to show the physical
characteristics and human activities of an area
Human activities in topographical maps are ways in which human beings have made use
of the land represented on a map.
Using creative and critical thinking skills to enlarge and reduce parts of
topographical maps
Pupil’s activity
Page 112
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Reducing parts of topographical maps
a) The reduction of a map extract is an activity in which the size of the map is made smaller.
b) When reducing a given map extract, divide the length and width of a map by the given
factor, say by 2.
c) A map can also be reduced by multiplying the scale of the original map.
d) Multiply the denominator of the scale of the original map by the given factor.
e) For example, if the scale of the original map is 1:50,000, and the map is reduced by 2,
then you multiply the denominator of the scale by 2 to give you 1:100,000.
Pupil’s activity
Page 118-124
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8. Along the same edge, mark the position of the required physical and human features.
9. Once completed, remove the piece of paper, fold the map and put it aside.
10. Pick a piece of graph paper and on it:
a) indicate the title of the cross-section, for example, "A cross-section of Kabe Area from point C
to D",
b) place your piece of paper on the graph paper and mark the starting and end points using
the grid references,
c) indicate the heights on the grid using dots,
d) join up the dots with a curved line,
e) indicate the required features where they appear on the map.
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Internal land forming process
Internal land forming process are process that occur within the earths crust and
shape the landforms on its surface.
These process are caused by forces originating from the earth, such as heat, pressure
and the movement of molten rock,
Internal land forming process include volcanic activity, folding, faulting and uplifting
Tensional Forces
a) They are stretching or pulling forces. They pull away the crustal rocks in
opposite directions.
b) When tensional forces are applied to the earth's crust, they cause the rock to
break, forming lines of weakness called faults.
c) More tensional forces make the land between the fault lines to sink
d) The land that sinks forms the rift vally. The steep sides left after the sinking form
an escarpment
Compressional forces
a) These are forces that push against a section of the crust from directly opposite sides.
b) This may result in the breaking of the crustal rocks. While the outer blocks remain
stationary, the middle block may be uplifted by vertical forces as shown in the diagrams.
c) This leads to the formation of landforms such as fault mountains.
Shear forces
a) These are forces that push against adjacent blocks of the crust.
b) They lead to sliding of adjacent blocks of the crust against or over each other.
c) Shearing forces may twist or tear up the crust.
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b) Plate tectonics - the earth is made up of giant puzzle pieces called tectonic plates. These
plates are always moving, although very slowly. Sometimes, they bump into each other, move
apart or slide past each other, causing earth movements.
c) Gravitational force - this causes landslides when rocks, soil, or debris move down a slope due
to gravity. Heavy rain or human activities can weaken the stability of the slope, making it easy
to slide. Gravity pulls the loose material downhill, causing a landslide.
d) Earthquakes - they happen when there is a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust.
This energy is built up over time due to the movement and interaction of tectonic plates. When
the stress becomes too great, the rocks break and move, causing the ground to shake.
e) Isostatic adjustment - this happens due to erosion when natural forces, like wind and water,
wear away the Earth's surface over time. It can also be caused by human activities, such as
deforestation. Erosion can lead to changes in the landscape, including the formation of valleys.
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i) The amount of pressure.
ii) The direction of movement of the force.
The breaking of crustal rocks occurs differently depending on the forces affecting the crustal
rocks. It occurs due to the following:
i) When the rocks are subjected to tensional forces pulling crustal rocks in different directions.
ii) When the rocks are subjected to shear forces acting horizontally on the rocks.
iii) When the rocks are subjected to compressional forces pushing towards each other
and squeezing the rocks.
iv) When crustal rocks are subjected to vertical forces exerting a strain on the rocks
which eventually break.
Type of fault
1. Normal fault
It is formed when the forces acting on crustal rocks are tensional forces. They pull the
crustal rocks in different directions, causing them to break.
2. Reverse fault
It is formed when the forces acting on crustal rocks are compressional forces. They push
towards each other causing crustal rocks to break. One block of crustal rocks may be pushed
over the opposite block.
3. Thrust fault
It is formed when the forces acting on crustal rocks are compressional forces. Unlike in
reverse faults, they cause the crustal rocks to break at a very low angle. The block on the left-
hand side rides over the block on the right-hand side.
4. Vertical fault
It is formed when the forces on which the crustal rocks are subjected to are acting vertically
within the crustal rocks. They push one block upwards or downwards as the other one
remains stationary
5. Shear or transform fault
It is formed when the forces acting on the crustal rocks are acting horizontally within the
crustal rocks. They push the two blocks of crustal rocks alongside each other.
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3. By anticlinal arching where flexible crustal rocks were subjected to compressional
forces. The crustal rocks bent upwards and eventually broke to form a series of faults.
Later, the rocks subsided along the fault lines to form a depression called a rift valley
b) A fault scarp
Is also known as an escarpment. It is formed by both tensional and compressional forces.
a) Tensional forces. - The crustal rocks were subjected to tensional forces. They broke to form
a normal fault. When subsidence occurred, one block subsided down to expose a steep slope
along the fault. The steep slope is known as a fault scarp, as shown in the diagrams.
b)Compressional Forces - When crustal rocks were subjected to compressional forces, a reverse
fault was formed. One block thrusted over the other one, hanging on top of it. When the hanging
masses of rock were destroyed and collapsed, they exposed a steep slope. This is known as a fault
scarp
c) Fault steps
Are formed when multiple faults were formed by tensional forces. When subsidence of the
crustal rocks happened, the blocks sunk to different levels along the faults. This formed a
series of faults. These are called fault steps
b) Different types of faults are formed when faulting occurs. These are:
i) Normal faults
ii) Reverse faults
iii) Thrust faults
iv) Anticlinal faults
v) Shear faults
c) When faulting occurs, the following features are formed in the environment:
i) A rift valley
ii) Fault scarp
iii) Fault steps
iv) Depressions which may be occupied by lakes
v) Fault blocks
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b) Faulting creates unique landscapes and features on the Earth's surface, such as mountains
and valleys. These features attract tourists to the countries where they are located hence earning
the country foreign exchange.
c) Some faults provide opportunities for generating clean energy, such as hydroelectric
power from rivers along the fault lines.
d) Scientists study faulting to learn more about the Earth's history and how it changes over
time, helping us understand our planet better.
Recognising internal land forming processes in shaping the landscape and their
influence on human activities
There are four internal land forming processes. These are faulting, folding,
vulcanicity and earthquakes.
They have their origin in the interior of the earth. When they take place, many
features are formed on the surface of the earth. These include mountains, hills, valleys
and depressions.
The mountains formed are tourist attractions which earn revenue to the countries
where they are located.
High rainfall on the windward side of the mountains promotes agriculture and settlement.
Lower rainfall on the leeward side of the mountains encourages livestock farming.
The hills formed are at times a hindrance to transport. Constructing a road in hilly areas
is slow and expensive.
The soils formed when volcanic rocks are deposited on the surface, break down and
are rich in minerals, promoting agriculture.
Rivers flowing from volcanic mountains are big and permanent, providing water for
domestic use, fishing, irrigation and generation of hydroelectric power.
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Multipurpose river projects in Africa
Multi purpose river projects Involve the construction of dams, reservoirs canal and hydraulic
structures to manage water resources and maximize their utlisation for various socio economic
benefits
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Outlining the conditions that led to the establishment of multi purpose river projects
along river tana
The following are conditions that led to the establishment of multi-purpose river projects
along River Tana.
a) Energy demand - As Kenya's population and economy grew, so did the demand for energy.
River Tana's water flow and hydroelectric potential made it a main source for generating clean
and renewable energy, helping to meet the country's increasing energy needs.
b) Flood control - seasonal flooding along the River Tana posed risks to infrastructure and
human life. Constructing dams and reservoirs as part of the projects aimed to regulate water flow
and control flooding.
d) Water scarcity - downstream areas of River Tana faced water scarcity issues, affecting
both communities and agriculture. The establishment of river projects aimed to regulate the
river's flow, ensuring a consistent water supply for domestic use.ning the economic
b) Resettlement and displacement – constructing dams and reservoirs may require moving
people from their homes, which can be disruptive and challenging to the affected communities.
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c) Water management – balancing the needs of various users such as agriculture, industry
and communities can be difficult, especially in regions with limited water resources.
d) Climate change – changing weather patterns and water availability due to climate change
can affect the reliability and sustainability of multi-purpose river projects.
b) Planting trees can address deforestation in water catchment areas or river sources which
will also help to reduce soil erosion.
c) Use of organic fertilisers that will raise yields without destroying the soils in areas
that initially depended on silt from the river to supply required nutrients.
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Management and Conservation of the Environment
The management and conservation of the environment involves efforts and
strategies aimed
at protecting, preserving and sustainably utilising natural resources
and ecosystems.
issues such as
It consists of a wide range of actions and practices that address environmental
reducing waste generation and promoting the efficient use of resources.
Conservation of the environment is the practice of preserving and protecting the natural
environment and its resources from destruction for use by the present and future generations.
The differences between management of the environment and conservation of the environment.
Management of the environment Conservation of the environment
a) It involves planning and implementing a a) It involves the protection or preservation of
plan to ensure effective and proper utilization available resources for the future.
of available resources in the environment.
b) It focuses on short to medium-term goals, b) It focuses on long-term goals to protect
often driven by economic considerations and natural resources and biodiversity for future
immediate needs. generations.
a) Pollution - various forms of pollution such as air pollution, water pollution and soil
pollution can have negative effects on the environment.
c) Industrial activities - industries that engage in the production of goods and services can
have negative effects on the environment such as over exploitation of raw materials.
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d) Agricultural practices - excessive use of pesticides, fertilisers and monocropping can
lead to soil degradation and water pollution.
a) Health risks – degraded environments can lead to significant health risks to the community.
Air pollution, water pollution and contaminated soil can lead to respiratory problems and
other illnesses.
b) Water scarcity – degradation of water bodies such as rivers, lakes and groundwater can lead
to water scarcity in the community.
c) Soil erosion - unsustainable land practices such as deforestation and improper agricultural
techniques contribute to soil erosion. This leads to the loss of fertile land and reduced
agricultural productivity in the community.
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World heritage sites in Africa
World heritage sites are globally recognized places of outstanding value.
They are considered to be treasure of humanity and are preserved for future generations to
appreciate and learn from.
They can include
1. Archaeological sites
2. Historic monuments
3. Natural parks
4. Unique land formations
a) They serve as reminders of our past, allowing us to maintain a connection with our
ancestors and our traditions.
c) They attract tourists hence promoting economic development of the local communities.
d) They provide a tangible link between generations. They enable the transmission of
cultural knowledge, traditions and values from older to younger generations.
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c) Engage local communities in the conservation efforts of world heritage sites.
d) Support initiatives that focus on the preservation and restoration of world heritage sites.
e) Encourage public engagement through events and cultural activities that promote
the appreciation and conservation of world heritage sites.
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POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND
GOVERNANCE The Constitution of Kenya
A constitution is a set of agreed principles and rules which state the structure and powers of
government and relationship between the rulers and the ruled.
Debate over controversial issues. Issues like the establishment of section 2A in the
independence constitution in 1991 raised concerns among involved parties and groups.
The issue of whether to include the position of Prime Minister or not has also been
debated for many years.
Collection of public views. Public views are collected by the Constitution of
Kenya Review Commission (CKRC).
Civic education. The public is sensitized and educated on the Bill.
Convening of constitutional conferences. For example, the 2002 National Constitution
Conference at Bomas of Kenya came up with the Bomas Draft.
Drafting of the constitution. This involves both local and international experts who
draft the constitution which was the case between 2000 and 2010.
The referendum. The draft constitution is subjected to a referendum where people
give their views on a specific question presented to them through voting.
Enacting or passing of the constitution. The National Assembly passes the Bill.
Promulgation of the constitution. The constitution is adopted and made effective.
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d) Approves the necessary funds for the constitution-making process.
e) Supports the implementation of the constitution through legislation.
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Civic engagement in governance
Civic engagement is the active participation of citizens in their communities,
societies and the democratic process.
It involves individuals and groups taking an active role in addressing public issues,
promoting social change and contributing to the well being of their communities
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3. MP – member of national assembly
4. Senator
5. Governor
6. Women representative
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Kenya’s bill of rights
The Bill of Rights in the Constitution of Kenya acknowledges and protects the
fundamental rights and freedoms of every individual in the country.
a) Right to life, dignity and protection from torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
b) Protection of privacy, including the right not to have one's home or personal property
searched or invaded without a just cause.
c) Equality and freedom from discrimination on various grounds, such as race, gender,
religion, ethnicity and disability.
d) Economic and social rights, including the right to education, healthcare, housing and social
security.
e) Rights of children, including protection from child labour, exploitation and abuse.
Examining human rights of special groups for promotion of social justice and inclusivity
Special groups in society can refer to various disadvantaged or populations at risk who may
face specific challenges or require targeted support.
Examples of special groups in society include refugees, the elderly, migrants, persons
with disabilities and ethnic and racial minorities among others.
Human rights of elderly
1. Right to fully participate in community affairs
2. Right to pursue their personal development
3. Right to receive reasonable care and assistance from family and state
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Application of the Bill of rights for harmonious living
The following are some ways of applying the bill of rights for harmonious living.
1. Encouraging people to express them selves freely while they respect the rights of others.
2. Ensuring all individuals are equal before the law and forbid discrimination.
3. Protecting the freedom of assembly and association
4. Ensuring equal access to quality education for all individuals, promoting
knowledge, understanding and the development of critical thinking
Cultivating empathy and solidarity with special groups in society for mutual
social responsibility
Empathy is the ability to emotionally understand
what other people feel, see things from their
point of view and imagine yourself in their place.
Solidarity is an awareness of shared interests, objectives, standards and sympathies
creating a psychological sense of unity of groups or classes
The following are some of the ways of cultivating empathy and solidarity with special groups
in society for mutual social responsibility
1. Encouraging individuals and community organization to actively engage in
volunteer work and community service that directly benefits special groups.
2. Increasing public awareness and understanding of challenges faced by special
groups through educational campaigns, workshops and community events.
3. Organizing cultural exchange programmes that facilitate dialogue
and understanding between different groups in society.
4. Support organizations and initiatives that champion the rights and well being
of special groups.
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Cultural Globalisation
Cultural globalization is the interconnectedness and exchange of cultural ideas, values,
practices and products on a global level.
Cultural globalization is influenced by factors such as the development of communication and
transportation technologies, the spread of media and entertainment and migration
Identifying cultural elements and practices that have acquired a global recognition status.
to the process of cultural exchange and interconnectedness that
Cultural globalization refers
occurs on a global level.
of cultural practices, ideas, values and products across
It involves the spread and diffusion
different countries and regions.
b) Ujamaa is a socio-economic policy that emphasizes collective work, cooperation and shared
responsibility within a community. It promotes the idea of equal distribution of resources. It also
promotes a sense of unity and interdependence among community members. Ujamaa seeks to
uplift disadvantaged individuals in the society and create a society where everyone contributes
to and benefits from the collective efforts.
c) The term Ubuntu originates from several Bantu languages spoken in Southern Africa and
is often translated as, "humanity towards others" or "I am because we are".
d) Ubuntu consists of a set of values and principles that promote compassion, empathy,
respect and communal harmony.
The following are among the elements of African socialism, Ujamaa, and Ubuntu
that promote a common humanity:
a) Social justice. This promotes a sense of common humanity by recognising the
fundamental worth and dignity of every person.
b) Compassion and empathy. It contributes to building harmonious relationships and
promoting the well-being of all community members.
c) Communal ownership and cooperation. This cooperative mindset promotes common
humanity by emphasising the idea that everyone's well-being is interconnected.
d) Equal distribution of resources. T
a) Cultural awareness and education. Educating people on their cultural heritage as well
as different cultures around the world.
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b) Volunteering and community engagement. Getting involved in community activities that
promote cultural preservation and responsible global citizenship. For example, cleaning
and maintaining cultural heritage sites.
c) Environmental stewardship. Promoting sustainable practices that respect and protect cultural
sites, natural landscapes and ecosystems that are key to cultural traditions and practices.
d) Language preservation. Making efforts to learn, use and teach your native language.
Preserve and promote linguistic diversity by supporting language exchange programmes and
initiatives that document endangered languages.