Grade 5 Social Studies Political Systems And Governance β Governance In Kenya Notes
Governance in Kenya π°πͺ
Subject: Social Studies β Topic: Political Systems and Governance
Level: Age 10 (simple and short)
What is governance?
Governance means how people are led and rules are made and followed so everyone can live safely and happily. It shows who makes decisions and how people can take part.
Kenyaβs system: Two main levels
National Government ποΈ
- Leads the whole country
- Makes national laws and policies
- Provides national services (defence, foreign affairs)
County Governments ποΈ (47 counties)
- Help people at local level
- Provide services like water, local roads, health centres
- Have a Governor and County Assembly
Separation of Powers (simple boxes)
Executive
President, Governors, Cabinet
(Make and run policies) π§
President, Governors, Cabinet
(Make and run policies) π§
Legislature
Parliament (National Assembly & Senate), County Assemblies
(Make laws) π
Parliament (National Assembly & Senate), County Assemblies
(Make laws) π
Judiciary
Courts and Judges
(Interpret the law) βοΈ
Courts and Judges
(Interpret the law) βοΈ
These three parts work separately so no one gets too much power.
How leaders are chosen
- Kenyans vote in elections every 5 years.
- People 18 years and older can vote.
- Elected leaders include: President, MPs, Senators, Governors, and MCAs (Members of County Assembly).
Rights and responsibilities (short)
Your rights
- Go to school
- Get healthcare
- Speak your mind (freedom of expression)
Your responsibilities
- Respect others
- Follow the law
- Help your community (clean-up, attend baraza)
What devolution means (easy)
The 2010 Constitution gave power to counties so local people can decide what they need. This is called devolution. It brings services closer to you.
How you can take part
- Attend community meetings (baraza) with your parents.
- Ask questions about school and health services.
- Vote when you are 18 and help others learn about voting.
- Respect community rules and help keep places clean.
Quick facts (nice to remember)
- Kenya has 47 counties.
- The 2010 Constitution changed how the country is run.
- Power is shared between national and county governments.
- Everyone must follow the law β the rule of law keeps people safe.
Fun activity
- Draw boxes and write: President, Governor, MP, MCA, Chief Justice β show where each works (national or county).
- Ask your parent or teacher: What does our county government do for our town?
- Match: Governor β County services; President β National policies; Courts β Decide if laws are fair.