Grade 6 Social Studies Political Systems And Governance β Governance In Kenya Notes
Social Studies β Political Systems and Governance
Subtopic: Governance in Kenya π°πͺ
Governance means the way leaders and institutions make decisions for the country and how those decisions are put into action. Good governance helps people live well, stay safe, and get services like schools, hospitals and clean water.
1. The Kenyan system β quick facts
- The current rules are in the Constitution of Kenya (2010).
- Kenya has two main levels of government: National and County.
- There are 47 counties. Each county has a Governor and a County Assembly (MCAs).
- Adults (18+) vote in elections run by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
2. The three arms of government
Kenyaβs government is split into three arms. This stops one person or group from having too much power.
Role: Runs the country. Carries out laws.
Examples: President, Cabinet, State Departments.
Local leader: County Governor.
Role: Makes and changes laws.
Examples: Parliament (National Assembly & Senate), County Assemblies.
Role: Explains laws and makes sure people follow them.
Examples: Courts, including the Supreme Court.
3. National vs County β who does what?
- Defence and national security
- Foreign affairs and immigration
- National roads and airports
- Higher education and national hospitals
- Local health centres and dispensaries
- County roads and markets
- Water supply (local)
- Agriculture and county planning
4. How leaders are chosen
Leaders are chosen in elections. IEBC organises these elections. Voters pick the President, Members of Parliament, Senators, Governors and MCAs. Voting is an important way citizens take part in governance.
5. Rights and responsibilities of citizens
- Rights
- Right to education
- Right to health care
- Right to vote
- Right to free speech and a fair trial
- Responsibilities
- Obey the law
- Respect others and community rules
- Vote when you are 18
- Take part in community activities
6. Devolution β why it matters
Devolution brought power closer to people. County governments can plan and provide services that match local needs. This helps improve services faster and lets people speak to leaders who are nearer to them.
7. Checks and balances (simple picture)
Each arm checks the others. For example, Parliament makes laws, the President signs them, and the courts can say if a law is against the Constitution.
8. Good governance and taking action
Good governance means leaders are honest, decisions are fair, people can join in, and public money is used well. In Kenya there are organisations like the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) that work to stop corruption.
9. How you can learn and take part
- Talk with your family about local issues.
- Join school clubs that discuss leadership and community service.
- Attend public meetings with an adult to learn how decisions are made.
- Follow age-appropriate civic education in school.
10. Short quiz (check your knowledge)
- How many counties does Kenya have? (A) 40 (B) 47 (C) 50 β Answer: B
- Who runs national elections in Kenya? (A) EACC (B) IEBC (C) Parliament β Answer: B
- Which arm explains the law and decides if it is fair? β Answer: Judiciary
11. Classroom activity
Draw a simple poster showing the three arms of government or write 5 rights every Kenyan child should have. Share with the class and explain why these rights are important.
Useful words: Constitution, Devolution, Governor, MCA, Parliament, IEBC, Judiciary, Accountability.