Updated Form Two Notes_102138-1
Updated Form Two Notes_102138-1
(i) Desire to satisfy human wants. I.e. to get goods that they did not have.
(ii) Surplus production of commodities forced people to exchange excess of what they
had with what they need from other communities.
(iii) Development of transport made it easy for goods to reach the local market.
(iv) Job specialization where people concentrated in areas that they had better skills like in
basketry, pottery, iron smith, forced them to exchange their products with other
communities to get what they did not have.
(v) The unequal distribution of resources due to climatic and environmental conditions
encouraged exchange between communities. For example; the salt producing
communities exchanged salt for other commodities.
Methods of trade
i. Barter trade
ii. Currency trade
i. Barter trade.
Identify the main method of trade in Africa during the pre-colonial period (KCSE 2007).
i. Barter trade.
Identify one limitations of using barter trade as a method of trade. (KCSE 1996)
CURRENCY TRADE
State two advantages of the use of money over barter as a medium of exchange. (KCSE
2009).
Money is easily divisible into smaller units unlike the actual goods in barter trade.
What is the difference between barter trade and trade in which currency used as a medium of
exchange (KCSE 2000)
Barter trade refers to the exchange of goods and services for other goods or services
for other goods or services while currency trade involves the use of money to
purchase goods.
State one main limitation of barter trade during the transaction trade (KCSE 2002).
TYPES OF TRADE
LOCAL TRADE
i. Refers to the trade that was conducted at village level within the same geographical
area.
ii. Is the exchange of goods at village level within same geographical area.
(i) It was carried out within a small area like the village
(ii) The numbers of traders involved in this trade were few.
(iii) Trade was conducted in specific day of the week.
(iv) It had specific market days in which trade was conducted.
(v) They were no middlemen involved in this trade and therefore goods were sold
directly.
(vi) The chiefs controlled this particular trade.
(vii) It was done by small scale traders and not professional merchants.
(viii) The range of goods was limited to the resources available in a particular village.
Or
It involved small volume of goods which were exchanged in local trade.
Explain six effects of local trade to the communities that participated in it during the pre-
colonial period.
REGIONAL TRADE
The term Trans- means across and Sahara refer to a desert in North Africa.
It was a trade that was conducted between the people of North Africa across the
Sahara-desert.
N/B Western Sudan refers to the dark skinned people who occupy the region to the
south of Sahara desert i.e Ghana, Mali, Songhai.
What factors led to the development of Trade between North Africa and West Africa during
the pre-colonial period [KCSE 1996]
(i) Existence of North Africa merchant who were ready to invest their capital in the trade
OR existence of the rich merchants in the region who were willing to invest in the
trade.
(ii) Availability of trading items such as gold from West Africa and salt mines in the
Sahara desert.
(iii) Demand for West African goods such as gold, saves and kola nuts in the north and as
well in West Africa where goods from the north such as guns were on high demand
OR there was high demand for scarce goods in North Africa and West Africa for
example gold, kola nuts and ivory were highly demanded in the north.
(iv) Availability of capital provided by the Berber merchants of North Africa promoted its
development.
(v) Presence of the Tuaregs who guided the traders across the desert and acted as
interpreters-encouraged trade since they provided them with security. Or existence of
strong leaders/political stability in western Sudan encouraged trade since they provide
them with security OR presence of capable rulers who offered/provided protection to
the traders. Example of such leaders includes Mansa of Mali, Askia Mohammed of
Songhai.
(vi) The use of camels and horses made their journey through their desert easy since they
were able to carry heavy loads and travel long distance without water.
N/B – They could travel on sand with ease.
(vii) Existence of oasis which provided water and acted as resting points for traders where
they could replenish their stock of food, water etc OR presence of oases in the desert.
(viii) Presence of Islam which acted as a unifying factor since the traders looked at each
other as brothers and sisters and thus creating trust.
Name two commodities of exchange that were got from West Africa during the trans-
Saharan.
(i) Gold
(ii) Slaves
(iii) Kola nuts
(iv) Gum
(v) Pepper
(vi) Leather/hides and skin
(vii) Ivory.
(i) Horses
(ii) Guns weapons/firearms
(iii) Glassware
(iv) Mirrors
(v) Course shells
(vi) Daggers
(vii) Clothes
(viii) Beads
(ix) Date/dried fruits
(x) Perfumes
(xi) Salt from Tangaza.
(i) Gold
What were the roles of the Tuaregs on the Trans-Saharan trade [KCSE 2004],
Identify two trade routes which connected trading centers in the western Sudan and North
Africa during the Trans Saharan trade [KCSE 1999]
Primary routes
Secondary routes.
iii. It begins in Tunis through ghat, agades, Kano and ended in Hausa state.
iv. Tunis-ghat-Agades-Hausa state.
v. The eastern route
vi. It started in Tripoli to Fezzan and ended in burns.
vii. Tripoli-Fezzan-burns.
viii. They also passed through Sijilmasa-Timbuktu.
Give the main form of transport used in the trans-Saharan trade. [KCSE 2012].
Camel
(i) The journey was long and tiresome across the desert and thus traders could at times
run out of supplies of food and water.
(ii) The fall of empires like Songhai and Mali crossed political instability and insecurity
in the region OR insecurity due to declining and falling of kingdoms like Mali and
Songhai discouraged the traders.
(iii) Extreme weather conditions of desert for example it was very can during the night and
hot during the day which made the survey uncomfortable.
(iv) Frequent shifts/changes of trade routes affected the traders since they got lost in the
desert despite having the Tuaregs who showed them directions OR traders sometimes
got lost in the desert despite having the Tuaregs who showed them directions. OR
traders sometimes got lost in the desert due to frequent changes/shifts of trade routes
which caused delays OR the routes in the desert changed frequent and therefore the
traders occasionally got lost.
(v) Language barrier/ lack of common language of communication between the traders
and the people from the worth prolonged translations.
(vi) Attacks by dangerous desert animals/creatures such as scorpions and snakes that but
the traders and their camels leading to lose of lives.
(vii) The caravan routes were insecure and were therefore attacked by desert robbers who
sought to rob them of their trade goods
OR the Tuaregs changed their routes of guiding and or protecting the traders instead
robbed and the caravan routes were insecure since the traders were at times caught in
wars where they had to fight to defend themselves from the hostile communities.
Or the Tuaregs changed their roles as guides and became robbers of the carry where
their robbed and abandoned the traders in the deserts.
(viii) Frequent sandstorms in the desert blinded and at times buried traders and their camels
alive hence leading to loss of lives.
State five ways in which Trans- Saharan trade contributed to the development of kingdoms
trade during the pre-colonial period.
(i) Kings acquired five arms and horses that were used in expanding the kingdom. Or it
led to the acquisition of horses and five arms by the kings which were used in wars of
expansion.
(ii) Islam acted as a unifying factor thus creating political stability in the region.
(iii) Sheria/Islamic laws were used and thus promoting political stability in the kingdom or
sheria laws were introduced thus promoting law and order in the kingdom.
(iv) Kings acquired a lot of wealth from the trade which made them to command a lot of
respect from their subjects or kings acquired a lot of revenue/wealth from the trade
which was used in rewarding the loyal rulers/leaders.
(v) Trade motivated the kings to acquire more territories in order to get the trade items or
increased demand for trade items/ commodities motivated the kings to expand their
kingdoms in order to acquire trade items.
(vi) Muslim personnel’s were used by kings as advisors and secretariat which enhanced
effective administration.
(i) Mali
(ii) Songhai
(iii) Old Ghana.
Explain five factors that led to the decline of trans-Saharan trade [KCSE 1991]
(i) Exhaustion of trade commodities like gold and salt affected the supplies which
discouraged traders.
(ii) The god and salt fields got exhausted as a result of over mining which reduced supply.
(iii) Abolition of slave trade denied trader a main trade item.
(iv) The Tuaregs changed their roles as guides, robbed the caravans and abandoned the
traders in the desert.
(v) The development of trans-Atlantic trade diverted the attention of traders to the south
and thus making this trade unpopular.
(vi) The desert conditions like frequent attacks from poisonous snakes and scorpions
affected the development of trans-Saharan.
Describe the effects of the trans-Saharan trade on West African societies. [KCSE 1996]
(i) The trade led to the development of towns in West Africa. For example Gao,
Timbuktu and Sijilmasa.
(ii) It led to the spread of Islam and Islamic learning in West Africa for example the
University of Timbuktu built OR Islamic was introduced and spread throughout West
Africa with many converting to Islam.
(iii) The trade led to the emergence of a class of wealthy people especially the merchants
who participated in the trade.
(iv) The trade promoted intermarriages between north African and the people from west
Africa which improved relations or intermarriages between the Berbers, Arabs and the
people of west Africa was promoted and that improving relations.
(v) The trade promoted growth in agricultural production as a result of introduction of
iron tools.
(vi) The trade increased warfare between the African communities who had acquired
weapons such as guns or the trade increased intercommunity warfare since many
communities acquired guns and horses that helped them to expand their kingdom.
(vii) The trade introduced new cultural values in West Africa for example people adopted
new states of assessing and eating habits.
(viii) Trade led to the introduction of Arabs architectural designs/styles of building in West
Africa.
(ix) Trade led to the introduction/emergence of empires such as Mali, Songhai and Ghana
as a result of levies and tribute paid by traders.
(x) It led to the depopulation of West Africa through slave trade.
(xi) Learning institutions such as schools, colleges and universities such as universities of
Timbuktu were set and thus promoting western education.
(xii) West Africa was known to the outside world thus increasing trade link between West
Africa and the outside world.
(i) Give one reason why trans-Atlantic trade was referred to as a triangular trade.
(ii) It was conducted between Africa, America and Europe.
(iii) It was conducted between three continents namely Africa, America and Europe.
Give two trade items that were exported from West Africa to America during the Trans-
Atlantic.
(i) Slaves
(ii) Ivory
(iii) Kola nuts
(iv) Rubber
(i) Gold
(ii) Ivory.
Identify the main commodity from Africa in the trans-Atlantic trade [KCSE 2005]
Slaves
(i) Availability of firearms such as guns which made it easier to raid communalities for
slaves thus increasing its supply.
(ii) Availability of sailing ships that transported large volume of goods and slaves
promoted its development.
N/B- These ships had a greater capacity for cargo of slaves.
(iii) Establishment of plantation farming in the new world led to high demand for slaves to
offer labor.
(iv) There was high demand for European goods by African chiefs and kind who had
developed its taste which made them willing to sell their captures and subjects.
(v) Industrial revolution in Europe led to increased demand for raw materials which led to
an increase in the demand for slaves.
(vi) Existence of the rich merchants who were willing to invest in this trade led to its
development since the trade was profitable.
(vii) Existence of trade items between European nations and West Africa in ivory, palm oil
and gold laid foundation for its development.
(viii) Existence of trade routes along the sea that traders followed.
(i) The trade was conducted between three continents namely Africa, Europe and
America or it was organized in a triangular form involving three continents namely
Africa, Europe and America.
(ii) The participants in this trade included countries like Britain, Portugal, Holland, Spain
and France.
(iii) The main commodity of trade was the slaves who were got from West Africa. Other
goods include gold, pepper, ivory gum etc while those from Europe included guns,
cloth etc.
(iv) Slaves were got from West Africa and were matched to the coast where they were
exchanged for European goods.
(v) Middlemen were used by the traders to source for slaves in West Africa.
(vi) Barter trader was used to acquire the trade items by use of iron bar, cowrie’s shells,
brass palm alcohol etc.
(vii) Slave’s dealers stored slaves in beacons waiting.
(viii) Slaves were packed tightly in the ships and were transported across the Atlantic
Ocean to Americas to work in the plantation.
(ix) Slaves were branded, examined and sold through auction.
(x) Manufactured goods were exported to Africa to exchange them with slaves.
Describe three ways which slaves were obtained during the trans-Atlantic trade [KCSE
2002]
(i) Slaves were exchanged for European manufactured goods like guns, mirror through
barter trade.
(ii) Some rulers sold their subjects/criminals to slave dealers OR African leaders sold off
criminals in their communities such as rapists and thieves as slaves.
(iii) Prisoners of war were sold to slave dealers.
(iv) Lonely travelers and weak subjects were kidnapped and sold to slave dealers.
(v) By enticing people/children using desirable goods such as cloth and sweets or some
people were enticed with gifts such as cloth and sweets and eventually sold as slaves.
(vi) Slave raids were conducted in the villagers and captives such as slaves or villages
were attacked during slave raids and captives sold to slave dealers.
(vii) Debtors were sold to slave traders by their creditors for failing to pay debts [parrying].
(viii) The weak in the society such as widows, orphans and feeble minded people could be
sold off.
State three reasons why European traders preferred African slaves during the trans-
Atlantic trade. [KCSE 2002]
(i) Africans slaves were readily available and easy to get or the supply of African slaves
was high since they were got easily.
(ii) They were cheaper to acquire than the red Indians.
(iii) They were cheaper to use in comparison to the red Indians.
(iv) They were stronger than the red Indians and the Europeans or they appeared stronger
for manual labor than the other races.
(v) Their skin complexion prevented them from escaping easily.
(vi) They were immune to both European and tropical diseases or they had strong
immunity against tropical diseases.
State two ways in which Africans participated in the Trans-Atlantic trade [KCSE 2013].
SOCIAL EFFECTS
(i) It caused serious deportation in west and parts of central Africa due to slave.
NB- it is estimated that about 20 million people were send off as slaves from Africa.
(ii) There was increased suffering among families as their loved ones were separated/sold
to slavery.
(iii) It led to permanent separation of family members as some were capture and sold as
slaves.
(iv) Many Africans lost their lives during the slave raids.
(v) It led to massive loss of lives during slave raiding and white being transported.
(vi) It led to intermarriages between the Africans and the Europeans leading to the rise of
Mulatoes.
(vii) Christians was spread in West Africa which countered/undermined the spread of
Islam.
ECONOMIC EFFECTS.
(i) Traditional/local industries declined as Africans acquired a taste for European goods.
(ii) There was a decline in agricultural production as the able bodied people were taken
away into slavery.
(iii) Slave raids caused massive destruction of properties such as homes and villages that
were burnt during slave raid.
(iv) It led to the decline of trans-Saharan trade since the traders diverted goods to the West
African coast their making trans-Saharan trade unpopular.
(v) It led to the rise of a wealthy class of people who participated in this trade such as
Samouri-Toure, Jaja Opobo.
(vi) Towns such as Lagos, Elmina, Goree, Dakar, and Rusfique developed along the coast.
POLITICAL IMPACTS
i. It opened West Africa to European colonization since slave trade had weakened their
ability to resist.
ii. It led to the emergence of strong kingdoms such as Asante since they acquired guns or
it led to the vise and expansion of strongly kingdoms and empires due to the revenue
and five arms they acquired.
iii. It promoted inter-tribal warfare which created political instability and insecurity in the
region as a result of guns acquired.
iv. It led to the decline of some kingdoms such as Oyo due to interstate conflicts.
(i) There were increased instability/conflicts among communities as traders raided for
slaves.
(ii) It led to serious depopulation in west and central Africa due to slave trade.
(iii) It led to the decline of the trans-Saharan trade since many found Trans-Atlantic trade
more profitable.
(iv) Many people lost their lives during slave raids.
(v) There was a decline in agricultural production as the able bodied people were taken
away into slavery.
(vi) It led to increased suffering among families as their loved were separated.
(vii) Traditional industries declined as Africans acquired to a taste for European goods.
(viii) Some kingdoms like Oyo, Old Ghana, Songhai, Mali, declined due to interstate
conflicts/warfare.
Explain six factors that led to the decline of Trans-Atlantic trade. [KCSE 2008].
(i) Leading economists like Adam smith were against slave labor and argued that free
labor was more productive.
(ii) The French revolution of 1789 impacted negatively on slave trade since the ideas of
equality and liberty were spread.
(iii) Britain abolished slave trade and influenced other European nations to stop it by
signing anti-slave trade treaties.
(iv) British philanthropist like William Wilberforce and missionaries strongly
campaigned against slave trade leading to its de cline
(v) Industrial revolution in Britain led to the replacement of slave labor with machines
which were more efficient.
(vi) Attainment of America’s independence left Britain with no colonies to take slaves to
work.
(vii) The development of legitimate trade that replaced slave trade-since it was considered
to be more lucrative.
(viii) Some Africans leaders/kings opposed slavery and slave trade for example Bemba of
Congo wrote to the king in Portugal asking him to stop his men from buying slaves in
Congo.
(i) Transport comes from two words i.e. Trans which means across and port meaning the
carrying of goods.
(ii) Define the term transport.
(iii) It refers to the movement of people and their goods from one place to another.
(iv) Traditional forms of transport
(v) Land transport; human porter age , pack animals
(vi) Water transport; use of rafts, boats canoes and sailing ship. SPORT
It is where people carry sizeable goods on their books, head and shoulders.
(i) It was readily available when needed or it is reliable and convenient mode of
transport.
(ii) It was a cheap mode method.
(iii) It was flexible since it does not rely on fixed timetable of arrival and departure.
(i) The porter could carry only a small load or it is not suitable for carrying bulk/ heavy
loads/goods.
(ii) It was slow as porters had to make frequent rests or it was time consuming since
people moved slowly.
(iii) It was tiresome/tedious and therefore trade mode frequent rests or it was tiresome
carrying heavy loads over long distances.
(iv) Porters were affected by weather changes like rain and sunshine.
(v) The porters could at time be attacked by wild animals.
Name two pack animals which were used for early transportation.
(i) Camels
(ii) Donkeys
(iii) Horses
(iv) Mule [product of cross breeding between a horse and a donkey]
(v) Oxen
(vi) Buffalo
(vii) Elephant
(viii) Dogs pull sledges
(i) They are cheap to maintain since they require only feeding and treatment or they are
cheap to maintain since only feeding and treatment cost are incurred.
(ii) Accidents are rare since animals do not overspend. Or animals are safe since accidents
are rare.
(iii) Animals can be used in inaccessible areas such as valley and mountains.
(iv) Some animals like horses and dogs are capable of sensing danger from a distance and
thus enhancing security.
(v) Animals help to maintain ecological balance since they don’t pollute the environment.
(vi) Animals do not need fuel apart from teaching them.
(i) Animal transport is slow and tedious since they need to feed and rest or animal
transport is time consuming since they need to feed and rest.
(ii) Animal transport is time consuming hence slow.
(iii) Animal transport has limited carrying capacity or they carry small loads of goods
compared to vehicle.
(iv) Animal transport is limited to day time and is therefore not suitable at night time or
animals cannot travel at night as they are limited to travel during the day.
(v) Animals are affected by poor health, injuries and can be attacked by wind animals or
animals can be attacked by wind animals and diseases which may lead to death.
(vi) Animal transport is cumbersome since it is difficult to handle/manage some animals
like donkeys or it is difficult to handle some pack animals like donkeys that are
stubborn which tired.
(vii) Extreme/bad weather conditions and rugged terrains affects/hampers the movement of
animals.
(i) Camels carry extra food in their stomach and store fats in the hump for use during
scarcity.
(ii) Camels do not sweat and therefore loose little moisture to the atmosphere.
(iii) Camels have large feet suitable for walking on sand without sinking.
(iv) Camels have a thick skin that protects it from extra heat during the day and cold at
night or camels have a thick skin which helps them to regulate temperature during the
day nag night.
(v) It has a long neck allows it to browse/eat leaves from high up trees.
There is tremendous development in the field of transport in the initial stages vehicles
without wheels were used for examples:
(i) Dog sledges- were used in snow areas only small areas of the sledge got into contact
with the ground to avoid friction.
(ii) The sedan chairs- fitted with two poles running on the sides from back to front. It was
carried by four men. This seat was protected and therefore the passenger was
protected from rain, heat and wind.
(iii) The travois.
The concept/idea of masking the wheel begun with the use of rollers that enabled man
to move heavy loads.
Use of rollers was cumbersome/ difficult and required a lot of energy and labor.
The invention of the wheel revolutionized transport sector.
(i) It promoted the development of early agriculture since the wheel was used in the
shadoof irrigation.
(ii) Porter’s wheel was used to make quality pots from clay or it helped in making pots of
high quality by the use of porter’s wheel.
(iii) It enhanced transportation of people and goods.
(iv) It was used to move war chariots which increased mobility of soldiers.
(v) It facilitated construction of roads.
(vi) It promoted trade as a result of improved transportation of people and goods.
Identify one way in which invention of the wheel promoted early transport [KCSE 2001]
Give three ways in which the invention of the wheel revolutionized transport in Europe
before the 19th C [KCSE 2008].
Give two means of water transport used during ancient times [KCSE 2009].
ROAD TRANSPORT
The first roads that were built in Europe were the roman roads built by the Romans.
The road was constructed by john macadam. The road was later improved by adding
tar to make it water proof.
This type of roads were named tarmac roads coined from macadam’s name, i.e. tar
and gravel.
Identify two improvements which were made on macadam roads in the 19th C [KCSE
2006].
(i) It was smoothened and made water proof or tar was put on top of the surface to make
it smooth.
(ii) Roads were widened to create highways.
(iii) Roads were straightened by adding more layers of stones/gravels that made it durable.
Give three developments that have taken place in road transport system since 1970 [KCSE
2003]
(i) Tarmac roads which are more durable have been constructed.
(ii) Bridges have been constructed to facilitate travel on roads.
(iii) Roads have been straightened and widened to ease the increasing volume of traffic.
(iv) Dual carriages have been constructed to ease traffic congestion.
(v) Fly over bridges and tunnels [under pass] on cross roads have been constructed for
faster travel.
(vi) Macadam roads have been constructed or construction of macadam roads that are
durable.
(vii) Motor ways have been constructed in developed countries for the exclusive use of
wheels.
THE BICYCLE
MOTOR VEHICLE
(i) Road transport is faster than water and railway transport except where electric train is
used.
(ii) Roads are flexible since they can offer door to door services.
(iii) Oafs are flexible since they easily link with railway, air and water transport.
(iv) It is the cheapest form of transport over short distances or road construction is cheaper
than construction of airports and railways.
(v) Road transport is reliable / convenient since there are no fixed time schedules for
usage.
DISADVANTAGES/LIMITATIONS.
State two negative effects of the development of motor vehicle transport [KCSE 2012].
RAILWAY TRANSPORT
Give two advantages of using steam engine in transport in the 19th century [KCSE 2005].
LIMITATIONS/DISADVANTAGES
State three effects of the development of railway transport in the 19thC [KCSE 2002].
Assignment
Explain six ways in which the invention of railway speeded up industrialization- in Europe
Give ways in which poor transport hinders industrialization in the third world countries.
[KCSE 1998].
WATER TRANSPORT.
What is a canal?
EXAMPLES OF CANALS.
(i) They shorten distances between places thus saving time and cost or they shorten
trading routes.
(ii) They facilitate quick transportation of raw materials to industries.
(iii) They help in transporting bulky/heavy goods to the industries.
(iv) They faster supply of manufactured goods to the market.
(i) It shortened the sea route between Europe and the Far East or it linked the red sea to
the Mediterranean Sea. It provided a direct link between Europe and the Far East.
(ii) It promoted international trade.
(iii) It encourages scramble and eventual colonization of Africa.
AIR TRANSPORT
Orlive wright
Wilberforce wright (the wright brothers]
(i) It has provided the fastest means of transport for both passengers and goods.
(ii) It has promoted international trade since goods and people move fast.
(iii) It has created employment too many people such as pilots, engineers air hostess etc.
(iv) It has promoted the development in agriculture since planes are used in spraying and
monitoring large farms.
(v) It has enhanced international cooperation and understanding as people exchange
ideas.
(vi) It has enhanced wildlife management since counting and monitoring of animals is
easily conducted by use of planes.
(vii) Aero planes are used in aerial photography and cartography thus improving map
making.
(viii) It has revolutionized warfare as countries are able to strike enemies with prescient.
(ix) It has promoted emergency and relief services for example flying doctors move faster.
(x) It has promoted space exploration through invention of space shuttles and satellites.
(xi) It provides transport to inaccessible areas like mountains and flooded areas.
(xii) It has promoted improvement of security since soldiers and policemen can be moved
to troubled areas faster.
(xiii) Aero planes are used in sporting activities for example Kenya air force stages fighter
planes show during the national holidays.
LIMITATION/DISADVANTAES
(i) It has made warfare more destructive and deadly through the use of bombs. Or the use
of air craft’s in military warfare has resulted in destruction of property.
(ii) It is expensive to acquire and maintain an aircraft.
(iii) It pollutes the environment due to the fumes it emits or aircrafts emit gases which
contribute to the polluting of the atmosphere.
(iv) It is expensive means of transport compared to other means. Or air transport can only
be used by the rich/well to do members of the society thus making it inaccessible to
many.
(v) It cannot carry bulky /heavy goods as compared to other means of transport.
(vi) International terrorism has been facilitated by use of aircrafts. Or travelling by air has
facilitated international terrors and drug trafficking.
(vii) It has affected by bad weather such as rains and snow that causes delays or its
operations are affected by unfavorable weather conditions.
(viii) Accidents by aircrafts are fatal with very little channels of survival. Or when
accidents occur many people are killed.
(ix) The aircrafts can only land and take off in specific/designated areas this inconvenient
to users.
(x) Construction of the airstrips/airports requires a lot of resources and expertise.
SPACE EXPLORATION
It refers to an organize trip to unfamiliar regions beyond the earth’s atmosphere which
contain other planets such as the moon and stars.
It is also an attempt by the scientists to reach heavenly bodies such as the stars and
moon to learn more about them.
It has enhanced human understanding of the universe through the discoveries made or
it has increased man’s knowledge about the universe through the discoveries made.
POSITIVE –ECONOMIC
(i) It has promoted the development of both local and international trade since goods and
people move fast.
(ii) It has promoted the development of agriculture since farm produce are transferred
faster to the market.
(iii) It has encouraged industrial revolution since raw material and industrial workers
move faster.
(iv) The government earns revenue from license, fines and fuel levies.
(v) It has facilitated exploration of natural resources such as minerals and forestry.
(vi) It has promoted tourism since people travel too areas of attraction faster.
(vii) It has led to the development of towns/urban centers in areas that are well served with
roads.
(viii) It has created employment opportunities too many people such as drivers, engineers,
pilots etc.
SOCIAL EFFECTS
It has promoted emergency services since it’s easy to reach people even in remove places or
humanitarian inform of food, machines and other supplies can be sent easily to affected areas.
It has made migration of people from one part of the world to another easy.
It has facilitated easy exchange of ideas across the world as people interact.
Transport has made the world a global village since different parts are easily accessible.
NEGATIVE IMPACTS.
It causes traffic jams in towns due to an increase in the number of vehicles hence causing
delays.
It has made warfare deadly since troupes can be moved to troubled areas very fast.
COMMUNICATION
What is communication?
Give three factors which should be considered when sending a message [KCSE 2006].
It was lit on a raised ground where it could be seen easily to pass messages. Fire was
lit and as smoke signal rose to the sky, the intended message was received.
(i) It was difficult to light/start fire in wet conditions or the use of fire was restricted to
weather conditions.
(ii) Messages could only be sent over short distances.
(iii) The signals were of no use if no one was on the lookout.
(iv) Smoke signals were not visible on a cloudy, misty day.
(v) Range of messages passed was limited.
DRUM BEATS
Give one advantage of drum beating as a form of communication over the use of smoke
signals in Africa during the pre-colonial.
(i) It needed expertise in drumming or it required highly skilled drummers to play the
beats.
(ii) The distance covered was short.
(iii) Messages could be interfered by physical barriers
(iv) There is no privacy of the message sent.
(v) The message could not be interpreted clearly.
Runners were sent to deliver long message especially those that were confidential.
(i) A person carrying verbal message can be tortured to verbal it or one could be tortured
to reveal the message.
(ii) One can give wrong message or forget the message.
(iii) One can die on the way as a result of attacks by hostile communities or wild animals.
(iv) It is slow since messages took a long time to reach the recipient because travel was by
foot.
(v) The distance covered by the messenger was limited since they moved on foot.
HORN BLOWING
It was a vehicle means of conveying messages. Horns were blown by specialists with
different tones.
DISADVANTAGES
(i) Messages could not do beyond hills and mountains or messages could be interfered by
physical barriers such as hills and mountains.
(ii) The privacy of the message was not guaranteed /assured.
(iii) The messages were restricted to only those who knew the tones.
(iv) The horn could be blown when no one was listening.
Identify one form of pictorial writing during the early civilizations. [KCSE 2005].
(i) Scrolls
(ii) Parameters
(iii) Stone tablets.
It is limited to those who know how to read and write or it is suitable to the literates
only.
Messages could be misinterpreted /misunderstood.
(i) Telecommunication
(ii) Print media.
TELE-COMMUNICATION
What is Tele-communication?
List two forms of communication used to send messages to distant places in the shortest
time possible. [KCSE 1996].
(i) Telephone
(ii) Telex
(iii) E-mail
(iv) Radio
(v) Telegram
(vi) Fax
(vii) Television.
TELEPHONE
The word telephone comes from two Greek words Tele which means far and Phone meaning
sound.
What is telephone?
It is a communication device/technology that sends are received voice messages over a long
distant by means of wire connected to a local exchange.
ADVANTAGES OF A TELEPHONE
CHARACTERISTICS OF A PHONE/CELLPHONE
ADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES OF A CELLPHONE.
TELEVISION
Disadvantages
i. Television is expensive to buy and maintain.
ii. Some deletion programs aired promote immorality (pornography) hence eroding
moral values.
iii. Some programs like wrestling may promote violence among the youths.
iv. Relies on electricity which may not be available always.
v. Some advertisement encourages drug abuse such as smoking and alcoholism.
vi. May become addictive leading to conflict in homes.
RADIO
INVENTORS
Oliver E. Lodge.
Advantages
INTERNET
EFFECTS/IMPACTS OF INTERNET
i. Has promoted development of education as institution using for research and course
material.
ii. Has promoted trade as business people use internet to pay bills and order for goods
through E-commerce.
iii. Internet helped individuals to communicate through face book, Skype, email etc.
DISADVANTAGES
ELECTRONIC MAIL
Disadvantages
NEGATIVE IMPACTS
(i) Mobile phones and computers may be health hazard to the users.
(ii) They may be addictive to the users hence making one less productive.
(iii) They may promote permissiveness in the society through exposure to pornographic
materials.
(iv) Poor disposal of electronic gadgets may lead to environmental pollution.
(v) It can cause noise pollution due to high/loud volume by radio and television.
(vi) Telecommunication has promoted global crimes such as drug trafficking, terrorism,
fraud etc.
IMPACTS OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS
(i) It has facilitated storage of information more conveniently through the computer.
(ii) It has provided entertainment through live transmission of music; sports and videos or
television, videos, computers and cinemas transmit entertainment through pictures.
PRINT MEDIA
(i) Newspapers
(ii) Magazines
(iii) Newsletters
(iv) Journals
(v) Diaries
(vi) Novels
(vii) Periodicals etc.
(i) Can be used for future reference since information is stored permanently.
(ii) It is easy to distribute them to different parts of the world.
(iii) Can be translated into many languages.
(iv) Provide detailed information.
(v) Provide materials for reading and references.
DEMERITS
What is an industry?
It is a skill of making other products from raw materials. It is a process of converting raw
materials into finished products. It is the manufacture of new good from raw materials.
i. Wind
ii. Water
iii. Wood
WOOD
It is the most relied source of energy used in developing countries .it is the earliest source.
Uses of wood
i. It was used to make fire which provided warmth during the cold OR it was used to
make fire to keep people warm
ii. Used in cooking food and roasting meat.
iii. Bonfires were used as security against animals OR fire was lit at the entrance of
man’s dwelling for security
iv. Fire was used in hardening pot s and smelting iron
v. It facilitated hunting since animals were frightened into traps using fire
vi. Charcoal was used in heating water which provide steam energy to drive machines in
industries
Advantages of wood
Disadvantages of wood
WIND
It refers to air in motion. It is moving air with the capacity of creating energy on objects upon
contact
Uses of wind
i. It was used in driving sailing ships, dhows and boats. Or to propel boats and sailing
ships
ii. To winnow and dry grains
iii. To grind grains and process food
iv. To pump water for irrigation and domestic use OR to drive water pumps
v. To generate power by turning wind mills OR to drive /turn wind mills to provide
energy to run machines
Advantages of wind
Water
Uses of water
i. Gold
ii. Copper
iii. Bronze
iv. Iron
v. Silver
BRONZE
It is a mixture [an alloy] of copper and tin, it was first used in Mesopotamia before spreading
to Egypt
Uses of bronze
i. To make utensils
ii. To make ornaments
iii. To make weapons like the swords, spears ,daggers, and chariots
iv. To make tools such as hoes , chisels and axes
v. Used as a currency
vi. It was used as an item of trade
vii. It was used in making statues , flower vases and royal regalia items
viii. It was a store of wealth as kings measured their wealth in terms of bronze
Gold
COPPER
Uses of copper
IRON
i. Meroe in Sudan
ii. Nubia
iii. Kush
iv. Nok Axum/aksum
State one theory of origin about the knowledge of iron working in Africa
i. Trade facilitated the spread of iron working from north Africa across the Sahara to
Kush and chad basin
ii. Migration of some communities such as the Bantu and southern Cushites led to the
spread of iron working skills
iii. Inter marriages between communities led to the spread of iron working
n/b this was especially by those came from black smith families
iv. war fare especially the inter-tribal wars led to its spread
or warfare between the Egyptians and the Hittites who invaded Egypt led to it spread
v. travellers and messengers spread iron working by giving out and receiving gifts made
out of iron
vi. development of agriculture led to high demand for farm tools which led to its spread
USES OF IRON
Explain six impacts of iron working technology to the people of Africa [kcse 1993]
Explain how the discovery of iron working in Africa affected peoples live s in the continent
[kcse 1999]
i. It led to the expansion of agriculture since forests and bushes were easily cleared
OR agriculture expanded due to better farm tools like hoes used in clearing land
ii. It led to increased food production and this ensured food security
iii. Production of iron weapons like spears led to increased warfare between communities
thus loss of lives
OR weapons such as arrows and spears increased warfare between communities
leading to insecurity and loss of lives
iv. Iron tools were used as trade goods between communities leading to expansion of
trade
Or it led to expansion of trade as people exchanged iron tools for what they did not
have
v. Iron was used to make weapons such as spears for defense against enemies
vi. It led to urbanization / development of towns such as Meroe since many people were
attracted to the area where iron was mined
vii. Iron working led to job specialization as some specialized in iron smiting , agriculture
and trade
viii. It led to the rise and expansion of kingdom / empires since iron weapons assisted
kings to conquer /subdue the weaker neighbors
ix. It facilitated migration of some communities of some communities like bantus since
iron tools helped in clearing land for passage and settlement
x. It led to the development of religion since religious items like gods were made of iron
xi. The use of iron led to decline of the use of other metals such as copper and bronze
xii. It led to population increase as a result of increased food
i. Tools made out of iron were used in clearing for settlement and paths
ii. Weapons made of iron like spears helped in fighting the communities they got in
contact with and for expansion.
It was a period marked with fast changes in the production of goods on a large scale
It refers to the economic and technological changes where cottage industries were replaced
with factory system
It is the sum total of radical changes in the various sectors of the economy such as industry
transport ,banking , technology use of iron steel and use of various sources of energy .
It refers to the radical changes in the production marked by large scale production of goods
i. Coal
ii. Steam energy
iii. Electricity
iv. Petroleum
v. Atomic/nuclear energy
vi. Solar energy.
COAL
TYPES OF COAL
Anthracite coal
Bitumous coal
Lignite coal
N/B coal was the main source of energy in Europe during the industrial revolution
USES OF COAL
i. It was used as a raw material in the manufacture of dyes ,plastics and pharmaceutical
products
ii. To drive locomotives
iii. To power/drive engines or machines in industries
iv. To provide lighting since burning coal converted into electricity
v. Coal gas was used for cooking
vi. It was used in iron smelting
Disadvantages of coal
STEAM ENERGY
Steam was first used by the hero of Alexandria to open the massive doors of the temples
Thomas savery, Thomas Newcommen and James watts are accredited for improving steam
energy
Steam is a form of a gas form when water boils which causes motion
USES OF STEAM
N/B the main use of steam was to drive / power machines in the industries
i. It readily available
ii. It does not pollute the environment
iii. It serves various purposes such as driving steam ships and engines it produced a lot of
energy compared to any other sources of energy at the time
ELECTRICITY
It was discovered by Michael in 1831when he invented the dynamo. this power was supplied
by electricity charged electron and transmitted through cables
Uses of electricity
i. It is used in lighting
ii. It is used in heating and cooking
iii. To drive or power machines in industries
iv. Used in running electric trains
v. Used in the communication system
Q. What were the effects of using electricity in industries in Europe in the nineteenth
century?
INDUSTRIALIZATION IN BRITAIN
i. Existence of a large population which provided her with steady domestic market for
her industrial goods OR existence of ready market internally due to her large
population and externally in her overseas colonies for her manufactured goods
ii. Agrarian revolution led to increased supply of raw materials and food for industrial
workers OR agrarian revolution provided raw material for the agro based industries
and enough food for industrial workers
iii. Development of transport through the construction of the railways ad roads facilitated
easy transportation of raw materials to industries and manufactured goods to the
market
iv. Existence of cottage industries which acted as a base for industry expansion
v. Availability of iron ore and other minerals like steel for heavy industries
vi. Availability of both skilled and unskilled labor provided by her large population to
work in the industries
vii. Existence of enterprising entrepreneurs / capitalists who were willing to invest their
capital in industries
viii. Britain had strong / powerful navy which protected her traders from foreign
competition and trade routes
ix. Britain’s policy of free trade encouraged industrialization since it attracted even
foreigner investors
x. Availability of capital which was invested in industrial development of industries OR
Britain had accumulated wealth from international trade which was invested in the
development of industries
xi. Availability of various sources of energy such as coal and electricity which powered
machines
xii. Development of banking and insurance where banks provided capital to industrial
investors and insurance offered protection against risks
xiii. Development of sciences and technology led to invention and increases in scientific
knowledge
xiv. Political stability enjoyed in Britain encouraged both local foreign investments in
industries.
i. Britain had both skilled and unskilled labor provided by her large population OR
availability of labor following the displacement of peasants due to the agrarian
revolution
ii. Existence of cottage industries in homes provided basis for industrial development
and expansion
i. Development of science and technology due to skills got from Britain ,German
invited technicians from Britain
ii. Availability of varied sources of energy for industrial use such as electricity, steam
coal to run machines
iii. Agrarian revolution provided raw materials to feed the industries and food for
workers
iv. Development of transport through construction of railways and roads enhanced the
movement of industrial workers and raw materials to industries
v. Availability of capital provided by the wealth merchant who were willing to invest in
industries
vi. Political stability due to the end of Napoleon wars and abolition of feudalism
vii. Availability of both skilled and unskilled labor provided by the large
viii. Development of banking and insurance which offered capital to traders and protection
against risks incurred
ix. Availability of mineral resources like iron ore for heavy industries
Social effects
i. It led to rural –urban migration as many people moved to towns in search for which
resulted to overcrowding
Economic effects
i. It led to the expansion of local and international trade due to surplus production of
manufactured goods
ii. Rise of factory system led to the decline of cottage industries
iii. Transport and communication was improved as a result of construction of roads,
railways and widening of canals
iv. It led to the improvement in agriculture due to the use of machines and ready markets
for raw materials industries
v. The use of machines replaced human labor in production thus increasing production
vi. It led to urbanization due to rural-urban migration since places around factories
became towns
vii. It created job opportunities for those who worked in the factories as engineers
viii. it promoted the development of science and technology which led to large scale
production
ix. It facilitated increased exploitation of natural resources such as coal and iron ores
x. Europeans nationals and countries acquired a lot of wealth from
xi. It led to unemployment since many people migrated to towns yet found no jobs.
Political effects
i. It led to the scramble and partition of Africa since Europeans sought for raw materials
to feed their industries
ii. Political pressure groups and trade unions were formed to defend the interest of
workers on the industries
iii. It led to the rise of Marxism which condemned capitalism for its exploitation
iv. The unemployed people referred fertile ground for violent revolutions in Europe
v. It led to the rise of middle class made up of urban workers who demanded for reforms
INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION
i. They worked for long hours in the factory /factory workers were subjected to long
working hours
ii. Workers received low wages which led to poor living condition/they were paid low
wages which forced them to live under poor condition.
iii. Underage children were employed in the factory and were exploited/women and
underage children were employed in factories and were exploited by factory
owners.
iv. They were exposed to accidents through dangerous machines since they did not have
protective gears/exposure to dangerous machines since workers did not have any
protecting, left many physically incapacitated.
v. Accident victims were laid off without compensation since they lacked insurance
cover.
vi. They suffered from diseases due to poor sanitation and pollution/there were frequent
outbreak of epidemic like cholera, dysentery, tuberculosis and typhoid as results of
poor hygiene.
vii. Inadequate workers made the workers live in the slums since they could not afford
descent accommodation.
viii. Workers were subjected to poor working conditions such as overcrowding, inadequate
lighting and poor ventilation.
ix. Workers worked and lived in unhygienic conditions for example stagnant water in the
factory.
It is the period in history when man made many discoveries/finding about the universe.
Renaissance/rebirth of knowledge
INVENTIONS IN AGRICULTURE
Positive
Negative
i. The invention of the steam engine in the textile industry by James watts
Negative effects
Wilhelm Rontgen Invented the x-ray machines that enabled doctors to treat
broken bones
i. The grouping of blood by Land Steiner enabled blood transfusion and storage of
blood for future use in the blood bank
ii. Discovery of penicillin as an antibiotic prolonged lives by treating infections
iii. The polio vaccines has helped in preventing polio
iv. Heart transplant by dr. Christian Bernard has helped in prolonging lives of heart
patients
i. It has made surgical operations safer therefore reducing the number of people who die
during and after operations
ii. The technology of developing children in the test tube has enabled childless couples
to have children
iii. Invention in medicine has led to improved standards of living and increase in life
expectancy
iv. It has created employment opportunities to medics and other workers in health
facilities
v. Advanced medical equipment which perform computer assisted surgery have been
developed
vi. It has made possible for one to have heart, kidney and lung transplants that have
prolonged lives
vii. Advancement in medical science has helped to reduce suffering hence relieving
people from pain
viii. Plastic surgery has made it possible for people to have a new face or new look
ix. The invention of the x ray machines has assisted doctors In treating bone fractures
x. Through medical research and experiments ,terminal diseases like HIV and cancer
which used to kill people have been reduced
xi. It has led to the manufacture of both preventive and curative drugs which have
promoted health
xii. The invention of vaccines has helped to prevent these read of diseases leading to
increased life expectancy
JAPAN
Japan is located in the Far East .Emperor Meiji supported industrialization in Japan after a
period of turbulence caused by civil wars in 1868
i. The government policies of free trade encouraged local and foreign investment in
japan since it attracted capitalists
ii. Availability of various sources of energy such as coal and hydroelectricity that
powered and run machines
iii. Political stability /the prevailing peace after the end of the civil wars encouraged both
local and foreign investors
iv. Development of transport and communication through improvement of water
transport and construction of roads and railways facilitated transport of raw materials
v. Existence of enterprising and hardworking citizens who were ready to invest their
capital in industrial development
vi. Availability if capital to invest in industrial development from the rich merchants
encouraged it development
vii. Availability of both domestic and external market for her goods since internally she
had a large population
viii. Availability of both skilled and unskilled labor to work in the industries
ix. Availability of natural resources such as forestry and fisheries , iron and coal that
were imported encouraged industrialization
x. The government made education compulsory and encouraged research leading to
innovative ideas .besides people were encouraged to study abroad which led to
technological advancement
xi. Availability of raw materials to feed the industries got within Japan and outside
encouraged its development
xii. There was financial support for industrialization from united states through the
marshal aid plan
Germany for a long time was not united as one country under one ruler until 1871 after the
1860 Franco Prussian war led by Otto von Bismarck which led to unification of small states
to form Germany
Common factors that have facilitated industrialization in India, Brazil, and South
Africa
i. Availability of many sources of energy such as coal and hydroelectricity to run the
machines
ii. Availability of both skilled and unskilled labor to work in the industries
iii. Availability of ready market provided by her large population for finished goods
iv. Availability of mineral resources such as iron for heavy industries
v. Availability of raw materials to feed their industries
vi. Development of transport and communication system /infrastructure facilitated
movement of raw materials and finished goods to the market.
vii. Political stability provided a conducive environment that attracted both foreign and
local investment in industry
viii. Existence of enterprising merchants ready to invest their capital in industrial
development
ix. Availability of capital for industries development provided by enterprising merchant
i. Political stability after the end of apartheid created a conducive environment for both
local and foreign investment
ii. Presence of a well-developed transport system facilitated movement of raw materials
to industries and manufactured goods to market
iii. Availability of both skilled and unskilled labor to work in the industries
iv. Availability of mineral resources like gold and diamond
v. Availability of various sources of energy such as coal and hydroelectricity to run
machines
vi. Availability of both internal and external markets for her manufactured goods
BRAZIL
i. Availability of both skilled and unskilled labor due to her large population
ii. Availability of both external and internal market for the manufactured goods
iii. Presence of raw materials such as iron coal and agricultural products encouraged its
growth
iv. Improved transport and communication opened the interior for exploration
v. Development of banking that extended loans for industrial development
vi. Availability of reliable source of energy such as electricity le to industrial
development
vii. Foreign capital especially from USA and Canada was used to set up industries
viii. Good leadership encouraged industrial development in brazil through protection of
local industries
ix. The outbreak of the second world war cut of supply of manufacture d goods from
Europe forcing brazil to set up industries
i. High poverty levels makes it hard for locals to purchase industrial products
ii. There is inadequate labor in southern brazil to exploit her natural resources due to
low population
iii. It faces stiff competition from industrialized nations like Britain
iv. Huge foreign debt makes it waste a lot of money servicing them
v. Poor technology hinders exploitation of resources
vi. Profit repatriation where most investors take profits made to their countries
vii. Colonialism and neo colonialism has over exploited her natural resources
viii. Poorly developed road network hinders the movement of goods and labor
ix. Monopoly of resources by multinational companies hinders government exploitation
INDIA
India was colonized by Britain and is the second most populous country in the world
i. Availability of raw materials such as iron ore ,coal led to rise of industries
ii. Development of transport and communication facilitated the movement of raw
materials to industries
iii. Availability of funds to invest in the industries encouraged industrial development
iv. Political stability encouraged investors in India leading to industrial development
v. Existence of a good industrial base laid ground for the development of industries
[cottage Industries ]
Third world industries are developing countries in Africa, some part of Asia and south
America
These are developing countries which depend on foreign aid and grants for their development
i. Poor transport and communication systems affects the movement of raw materials and
finished goods to the market
ii. Lack of capital to invest in industrial development due to their weak agricultural
economy
iii. Poor technology used in the manufacture of goods and exploitation of resources
iv. Poverty has led to small domestic market since many cannot afford manufactured
goods
v. Good produced by the third world countries are out competed by those from
developed countries because of their superior quality
vi. High illiteracy levels make people lack the knowledge required for industrial
development
vii. Corruption and mismanagement of industries has led to their decline
viii. Colonialism turned Africa into be suppliers of raw materials and market for their
manufactured goods thus neglecting industrial development
ix. Poor government policies such as nationalization of industries discourage foreign
investors
x. Political instability in some countries discourage investment in industries
i. The government should increase income of her people to improve their purchasing
power
ii. Develop transport and communication system to facilitate movement of raw materials
and finished goods to the market
iii. Develop agriculture to provide raw materials to the agro based industries
iv. Regional economic cooperation should be encouraged to promote trade and industry
v. Exploit the high population to provide labor in industries
vi. Provide scientific and technological education to her people OR there is need to
change their curriculum to make it practical and science oriented
vii. Address the problem of corruption and the mismanagement of industries
viii. The need to exploit their natural resources rather than exporting it
ix. Develop sources of energy such as hydroelectricity to run machines
URBANIZATION
Meaning of urbanization
Q.What is the meaning of the term “urbanization” (K.C.S.E 2008)
i. Urbanization is the concentration of people in certain places which grow large to be
called towns or cities.
London
Q.Identify two factors that led to the growth of London as an early urban centre.
i. Trade led to accumulation of wealth/ revenue that was invested in the development of
London.
ii. Industrial activities due to presence of many Industries such as textile, and ship
building found in London attracted large population of workers who settled there.
OR Employment opportunities in the industries attracted many people in London who
sought for wage labour.
iii. Improvement of transport systems such as railway and parts which enhanced growth
and expansion.
Economic results.
Q. State three economic effect of urbanization on European communities during the 19th
century.
i. Urbanization led to the development of transport and communications/infrastructure
such as postal services, roads, and railways.
ii. Commercial activities such as banking and trade expanded due to urbanization.
iii. Agriculture expanded/ developed due to demand for raw materials for agro based
industries and food in urban centre.
MODERN URBAN CENTRES IN AFRICA
NAIROBI – The name is derived from the Maasai phrase, enkare Nairobi which translates to
a place of cold waters.
Q. Explain factors that have contributed to the growth of Nairobi city.
POLITICAL ORGANISATION
Explain the political organization of Mwene Mutapa kingdom during the pre-colonial
(2000)
Describe the political organization of the shone during the pre-colonial period. (KCSE
2012)
i. They were ruled by an emperor /king who was given the title mwene mutapa
NB: he was the head of state and government.
ii. Kingship /leadership was hereditary which reduced succession disputes thus creating
unity.
iii. The kingdom was divided into provinces led by lesser chiefs.
What is a constitution?
It is a set of agreed principles and rules according to which a state is ruled/ governed
COMPONENTS OF A CONSTITUTION
IMPORTANCE OF A CONSTITUTION
Give three reasons why the constitution is important in Kenya (KCSE 2010)
i. It defines the structure, functions and powers of various arms/ branches of the
government.
ii. It clearly states the rights and responsibilities of individual.
iii. It spells out the responsibilities of those in power and limits their powers to promote
good governance.
iv. It ensures equality of all Kenyans/citizens.
v. It provides a legal ground from which laws of the country are made.
i. The geographical factors of a country for example countries with island have to be
included in the constitution.
ii. The historical background of a country.
iii. Religious beliefs of the people for example countries like Libya, Iraq have sharia law
in their constitution.
iv. Racial and ethnic composition of the people.
i. It should be specific/ definite in content.(It should have clarity clearly defining its
content in a clear language)
ii. It should be comprehensive/ contains all aspects of government.
iii. It should be flexible to enable it cope easily with any changes in the state.
TYPES OF A CONSTITUTION
i. A written constitution.
ii. Unwritten constitution.
WRITTEN CONSTITUTION
What is a written constitution?
i. It is one where the fundamental principles and rules of a state are consciously written
down in one document.
Or it is one whose principles and rules are contained in one document and consciously
written.
(i) Britain
State two recommendations of Lennox Boyd constitution regarding the legislative council
in Kenya (KCSE 2007)
What were the main features of the independence constitution of Kenya ? (kcse )
i. It provided for the establishment of a federal system of government where Kenya was
divided into six regions.
ii. It spelt out that the party with the majority forms the government.
Or it provided that Kenya is a multiparty state and the party with the majority forms the
government.
iii. It spelt out the rights and obligations /responsibilities of the citizens / individuals.
iv. It provided for a position of a prime minister as the head of the government and a
governor general as the head the state.
v. It spelt out the powers and responsibilities of the central government and regional
governments.
vi. It established regional governments with regional presidents and assemblies.
vii. It set up the judicial service commission to appoint judicial officers.
viii. It provided for a bicameral parliament made up of the senate/upper house and the
house of representative/lower house.
Or it provided for the establishment of national assembly consisting of the senate and the
House of Representatives.
ix. It spelt the necessary conditions for acquisition of the Kenyan citizens.
i. Written constitution.
CONSTITUTION MAKING PROCESS IN KENYA.
PROMULGATION
What is promulgation?
It is the official announcement of the law/constitution.
Give the last stage in the constitution making process?
i. Promulgation
REFERENDUM
What is a referendum?
i. Giving the public a chance to vote for or reject an important issue in the country.
MAIN REASONS FOR CONVENING A NATIONAL REFERENDUM
Give the main reasons for holding a national referendum in the constitution making
process.
i. To give the public a chance to vote for or reject the proposed legislation/constitution.
The term democracy is derived from the Greek word democratic. The word democratia is got
from two Greek words i.e. Demos which means people and Kratas referring to power or rule.
It means rule of the people.
What is democracy?
ASPECTS OF DEMOCRACY.
TYPES OF DEMOCRACY.
i. Direct / pure democracy refers to a type of democracy where the people in a state are
allowed to freely participate in an important decision making forum in regard to
matters of the state.
OR
ii. It is a type of democracy where the people are allowed or are directly involved in
decision making process on important matter of the state.
N.B All citizens are allowed to vote under plebiscite irrespective of age, registered or not a
registered voter.
i. It is a type of democracy where the citizens exercise their rights in decision making
through their chosen representatives.
CONSTITUTIONAL DEMOCRACY.
i. It is a type of democracy where the rights and powers of the majority is exercised but
within the limits of the constitution.
ADVANTAGES OF DEMOCRACY.
Democracy has existed for long in the history of mankind and is held as affair system of
government. It is defended on the following basis.
i. It promotes patriotism among the citizens and limits or reduces chances of revolution
since the people feel part of the ruling government.
ii. It promotes equality of all before the law thereby limiting/reducing discrimination on
basis of religion, creed or race.
iii. It promotes peaceful coexistence among the various communities in a state thereby
enhancing international cooperation.
OR It promotes peace in the country since it advocates for peaceful coexistence and
cooperation among the various communities in the state.
iv. It promotes moral and educative values like honesty and discipline since a democratic
government helps individuals to develop their personality.
v. It keeps the leaders on their toes to perform since people can vote them out if they
don’t perform.
OR It ensures that leaders don’t ignore the citizens who give them power and they
constantly consult them.
vi. The state makes laws based on the will of the people and people therefore will
willingly obey the laws.
OR It balances the liberty of the people and the power of the state thereby avoiding
oppression of the people by the state since it makes laws based on peoples will.
OR It is the elected minority that rules though the rule is considered as a majority rule.
Vii. Democracy is expensive process since a lot of public resources are used in facilitating
elections or referendum.
PRINCIPLES OF DEMOCRACY
i. Equality before the law states that all people should be treated equally before the law
and that judgments be made according to the laws of the state.
OR Equality before the law provides each citizen with equal treatment before the law.
ii. Economic democracy empowers the people with the means of creating and
controlling their own resources / wealth.
iii. Open and accountable mass media that allows citizens to get reliable information of
what is going on in the country. However the media must be accountable in its
reporting so as not to divide the country on ethnicity.
iv. Participation of the people in governance through airing of their views and organizing
regular free and fair elections.
v. Freedom of debate, speech and inquiry allows the citizens to participate free in
matters of state without fear of victimization by positively criticizing the state.
vi. Consent of the people argues that people in a given government are not dictated upon
but are consulted in matters of the state.
vii. Balance of the liberty and the power of the state in order to limit dictatorship where
both the citizens and the state know and play their duties.
viii. Rule of law respected by all should be established.
ix. Enlightenment of the citizens through provision of important information about the
state.
HUMAN RIGHTS
What is a right?