For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 29 The Crops grown included barley, wheat, vines, date, palms, grapes, olives, onions, figs, melons and cucumbers. Milk animals kept included goats and cow. Also ducks, pigs, geese and horses were kept. Impact of early agriculture in Mesopotamia a It led to settled life as people now needed to concentrate on farming. B Food production increased. C There was an increase in population along the river valleys due to plenty and regular food supply. D There was emergence of city-states and urban centres. For example Ur, Uruk, Eridu, Nippur, Kish and Babylon. E Surplus agricultural production led to development of trade between communities. F There was increased specialization as all could not engage in farming. Some became craftsmen. G Agriculture influenced writing and arithmetic. Management of estates required knowledge in accounts. The form of writing that was developed was known as cuneiform involving the use of stone tablets. H The invention of the wheel by around 3000 BC. It was used in carts to transport farm produce, for making war chariots to transport soldiers and also in pottery the potter s wheel i The plough was also invented. The first ox-plough consisted of simply a tree trunk with one small branch protruding upwards with the other one upwards. The invention meant that only a few people were needed to cultivate land. J There was the development of science and mathematics with the development of the first formulas for measuring time, distance and area. There was also development in the field of Astronomy. K Religious practices also developed with the connection of most of the gods to agriculture in one way or another. For example, Ninurta was a god of floods. L Development of law. A code of laws was compiled as a means of minimizing conflict in society- the Hammurabi s code. EARLY AGRICULTURE IN EGYPT As early as 7000 BC, people had already settled in the Nile valley. By around 5000 BC, the Egyptians had gradually adopted agriculture, departing from a hunter-gatherer society. Reasons that enhanced development of early Agriculture in Egypt a Availability of Water for irrigation and for domestic use from river Nile.


EARLY AGRICULTURE IN EGYPT As early as 7000 BC, people had already settled in the Nile valley. By around 5000 BC, the Egyptians had gradually adopted agriculture, departing from a hunter-gatherer society. Reasons that enhanced development of early Agriculture in Egypt a Availability of Water for irrigation and for domestic use from river Nile. B Existence of fertile silt deposits and mud originating from the flooding of the Nile betweenJuly and October annually, which provided fertile soil for crop farming. C Another advantage was that Egypt had a suitable warm climate for crop growing and ripening. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 30 d The Use of shadoof Irrigation technology ensured production of food during drought seasons e Presence of indigenous crops and animals from which domestication was made. Wheat and barley had already become indigenous to Egypt as were animals like sheep and goats. F Foreign influence from South West Asia where farming was first practiced. The proximity of Egypt to Mesopotamia, the first centre of agricultural development ensured that she borrowed heavily from there. G The Natural protection of the region from foreign attacks, since the Nile valley was protected by the Libyan Desert to the West, the Nubian Desert and Nile cataracts to the South and the Nile coast delta on the North. H Political stability. I High population created need for more food and provided farm labour. J Availability of slave labour made crop farming a success. K The invention and use of implements that included wooden sticks, knives and wooden hoes enabled the farmers to increase their yields. L The existence of writing in Egypt helped the Egyptians to keep accurate records of seasons and volume of food. The shadoof irrigation This was the method of irrigation used in Egypt during the drought season when the river was not flooding. A shadoof is a wooden device for lifting water from a river into the canals. It consisted of a long pole swinging up and down between two supporting wooden posts One end has a weight hanging on the pole while the other end has a skin bucket. The bucket is pulled down and dipped into the water by a person. It is caused to rise by the weight, once water has been filled.


It consisted of a long pole swinging up and down between two supporting wooden posts One end has a weight hanging on the pole while the other end has a skin bucket. The bucket is pulled down and dipped into the water by a person. It is caused to rise by the weight, once water has been filled. The other person empties the water into the canal to be drained into the fields. The Egyptians used farm implements like sticks, knives, axes, sickles and hoesAmong the crops planted in Egypt included wheat, barley, fruits, flax, beans, vegetables, cucumbers, onions, lentils, dates, figs and grapes. They used the broadcasting method. Shifting cultivation was also practiced before human population increased. They kept animals like sheep, goat, pigs, donkey, cattle and poultry. The state directed production. It controlled distribution of harvests as well as handicrafts. Government owned huge granaries and godowns which were used to store food. The king was regarded as the guardian who presided over food supply for all. The master of largesse was responsible for all the livestock in the country. In the year when agricultural production was poor, the head of the exchequer would take care of the distribution of seeds and livestock. Effects of early agriculture in Egypt a Due to improved farming, there was increased food production thus ensuring regular food supplies. B There was Growth in population as food supply increased and became regular. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 31 c Agriculture led to permanent settlement of people. As a result, their living standards improved dramatically as they reaped from farming. D Agriculture promoted trade among the Egyptians. It led to production of surplus food that in turn was used to increase trading activities. E Agriculture Led to rise of urban centres or towns in Egypt such as Memphis s akhetan, Aswan and Thebes along the Nile valley. F Agriculture enabled some society members to specialize in other activities since a few could now produce enough food for all. Some engaged in hand crafts, geometry etc. G Agriculture Led to emergence of government and related governing laws. H Like the case of Mesopotamia, it led to the discovery of arithmetic, geometry, writing and calendar. These were used by the priests to keep records and make accurate prediction of annual foods. The Egyptian calendar is believed to be the earliest calendar in the world. I It promoted social stratification or classes in Egyptian society.


These were used by the priests to keep records and make accurate prediction of annual foods. The Egyptian calendar is believed to be the earliest calendar in the world. I It promoted social stratification or classes in Egyptian society. Effects of early agriculture Summarize from the effects in Egypt and Mesopotamia. THE AGRARIAN REVOLUTION IN BRITAIN The agrarian revolution refers to rapid changes and improvements in the field of agriculture. Between 1750 and 1850 European countries underwent changes in agriculture. The changes were marked by A new system of land ownership Use of machines and new farming methods. The revolution took place first in Britain. CHARACTERISTICS OF AGRICULTURE IN BRITAIN BEFORE THE AGRARIAN REVOLUTION 1. Feudalism was practiced. What is Feudalism? Loosely organized system of government in which local lords governed their own lands but owed military service and other support to a greater lord nobility The feudal kings had plenty of land; but they could not control it all. So they gave land to lords nobility in exchange for protection, loyalty and .Nobility then gave Part of their land to the serfs peasants who would work on it and give part of their crops to the local land lord, for letting them farm the land. 2. Farmers practiced open-field system. In this system land was divided into three portions; I. Portion one- growing corn and wheat II. Portion two- for beans, barley and oats III. Portion three- left fallow to regain fertility. Such a system did not allow effective farming since land was not fully utilized. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 32 It also discouraged livestock farming since it allowed easy spread of livestock diseases. There was uncontrolled breeding in livestock instead of selective breeding since livestock grazed together. Fallow land and existence of Cattle and footpaths that crisscrossed the farms wasted a lot of land. 3. Stripping as a method of farming was used. The existence of strips meant that Land portions were small and discouraged the use of machines. 4. Use of simple tools and implements that included sticks, hoes and later ploughs. Cultivation was therefore on small scale with crop rotation being used as a method of improving fertility. It was however not effective. 5. Use of broadcasting method.


It was however not effective. 5. Use of broadcasting method. Broadcasting method of planting led to wastage of seeds as it would be eaten by birds and rodents 6. Intercropping was practiced. The growing of two or more crops on the same piece of land. 7. Mixed farming. Livestock was allowed to graze on fallow land 8. Mono-cropping-planting the same type of crop year after on the same piece of land. NB; this was an inefficient system leading to low yields CHANGES THAT MARKED THE AGRARIAN REVOLUTION IN BRITAIN 1. Fallows were abolished and available lands used effectively. This was influenced by population that occasioned demand for more food. The farmers could no longer afford to leave land to regain fertility. 2. Application of new methods of farming. Introduction and use of fertilizers in farms Lord Viscount Townsend discovered that clover added nitrogen to the soil and turnips could survive in winter and be used to feed cattle. Townsend introduced a new four- course crop rotation called the Norfolk system consisting of barley, clover, turnips and wheat on same plot for a four-year period. In 1843, John Bennet Lawes discovered the use of fertilizers and opened a superphosphate factory in London. 3. Use of farm machineries like the horse drawn drilling machine invented by Jethro Tull in 1701 which replaced the broadcasting method. Iron hoes were used instead of sticks, to prepare the ground. In 1925, the wooden plough was replaced with an iron plough. Patrick Bell s invention of the mechanical reaper replaced the sickle in harvesting corn. Andrew Meikles invented a mechanical thresher in 1876 which could cut and bind corn at the same time. The use of machines changed agriculture from a small scale to a large-scale business. 4. Intercropping to retain land fertility. E.g. of maize and beans. This practice enabled farmers to realize more yields. 5. Application of scientific principles to farming. For example, Selective breeding of livestock invented by Robert Bakewell 1725-1795 . He was able to develop the short For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 33 horn, Devon, the Hereford, Aberdeen Angus and Ayrshire. He also improved sheep breeds such as the Leicester, Shropshire, Suffolk and the oxford.


For example, Selective breeding of livestock invented by Robert Bakewell 1725-1795 . He was able to develop the short For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 33 horn, Devon, the Hereford, Aberdeen Angus and Ayrshire. He also improved sheep breeds such as the Leicester, Shropshire, Suffolk and the oxford. Pig varieties- the Yorkshire, Berkshire and Tamworth breeds 6. Fencing of farms land enclosure system; the introduction of land enclosures put to an end to strip farming. This was a demand of the rich landlords that land should be enclosed by fencing. The enclosure act enabled rich people to acquire more land. As a result more land was put under production and more land could be ploughed by one farmer Positive effects of the land enclosure system introduced in Britain a It created large farms which allowed use of horse drill and crop -rotation. B The farms were easily managed and Farmers could specialize in crop or animal production. C Farmers could use their title deeds to borrow money from financial firms for the improvement of their farms. Effects of the land enclosure movement on the peasant farmers in Britain a. The creation of large farms led to landlessness among the peasant farmers, b. Peasant farmers sold off their land to the rich farmers because they could not afford to cultivate the land. C. The land enclosure movement led to displacement of peasant farmers from their land and hence they migrated to towns caused rural -urban migration. D. The rural-urban migration of peasant farmers led to overcrowding in urban centres congestion in urban centres. E. The land enclosure movement caused emigrations of the peasants to other countries such as USA, Canada, Australia, new Zealand and south Africa f. The poor farmers were exploited, as they had to sell their labour to farmers and to the factories exploitation of the poor peasant s labour force. 7. The royal agricultural society. It was established in 1838. Through the journals of the society, new ideas and techniques of farming were publicized all over the country. As a result, many farmers began to adopt the modern methods of farming. CAUSES OF AGRARIAN REVOLUTION IN BRITAIN 1. Land consolidation; the introduction of land enclosures which put to an end to strip farming. As a result more land was under production and more land could be ploughed by one farmer. 2.


Land consolidation; the introduction of land enclosures which put to an end to strip farming. As a result more land was under production and more land could be ploughed by one farmer. 2. Development of new methods of livestock breeding; more scientific methods of breeding livestock were developed. They involved selective breeding in which animals with suitable characteristics were maintained in the herds. 3. Development of new tools for farming which helped to increase agricultural productivity .e.g. Use of seed drill, Rotterdam plough, threshing machine and tractors. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 34 4. Development of new methods of maintaining soil fertility e.g. the new crop rotation system allowed the continued use of land without exhausting its fertility. Chemical fertilizers were also produced. 5. Development of agricultural research in universities and research institutes assisted in improvement of soils and crop yields. Newspapers and agricultural journals helped to spread the results of this research to farmers. 6. Impact of industrial revolution which provided the agricultural sector with inputs and market. 7. Population increase led to high demand for food. EFFECTS OF THE AGRARIAN REVOLUTION IN BRITAIN 1. Food security for the population of Britain due to improved farming methods. 2. There was Growth of population in Britain due to food security lowered mortality rates and increased life expectancy. 3. There was Growth of capital plantation farming to replace subsistence farming. Due to the enclosure act, ownership of large farms was encouraged and subsequently mechanization plantations were set up. 4. Poor farmers who could not afford fencing lost their land. Capital farming therefore led to emergence of landless peasants as large tracts of land were consolidated in enclosures. The poor peasants were compelled to migrate to urban areas where they were subjected to poor living conditions. 5. Trade expanded locally and internationally. When farming was commercialized, Britain expanded trade thus boosting her economy. 6. Growth of a working class. The landless peasants sought wage employment on farms or in towns in the emerging new industries. Thus a class of workers began to emerge. 7. Transport systems like roads and railways improved. They were used to transport agricultural products to the market and raw materials to industries. 8. Industries benefited from agricultural raw materials develop ment of industries. A number of machines produced by industries were also used in agriculture to boost production. 9. Emigration of British national to other parts of the world.


A number of machines produced by industries were also used in agriculture to boost production. 9. Emigration of British national to other parts of the world. Some of the landless peasants migrated to USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. 10. Intensification of scientific research by the royal agricultural society to carter for the expanding agricultural sector. THE SPREAD OF AGRARIAN REVOLUTION From Britain the revolution spread to other parts of Europe and Americas and then the rest of the world. Ideas like crop rotation, use of machines, selective breeding of livestock and use of fertilizers spread into continental Europe from Britain. The governments encouraged agricultural science and research. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 35 The work of Louis Pasteur 1890-1960 a Frenchman discovered that disease are caused by bacteria and sterilization of food such as milk through boiling keeps it bacteria-free for long time THE AGRARIAN REVOLUTION IN THE USA The Americas was the origin of many crops in the world the American Indians were subsistence farmers growing crops like yams, potatoes, maize corn , cocoa, tomatoes, cotton, tobacco, beans and cassava. Political and religious differences in Europe in the 17th c forced many Europeans to settle in America as was also the enclosure system in Britain. Craftsmen and labouerers also moved in search of better life. The immigrant settlers came with horses, sheep, cattle, pigs, fowls, seeds and plants from Europe. Some of them participated in improving the machines that were already in use in Europe. For example: a. 1837- John Deere a young blacksmith from Illinois invented a steel plough b. 1837- Cyrus McCormick established a factory in Chicago to produce reapers c. 1837- Daniel Massey produced a similar machine in Canada. D. 1792- Elly Whitney invented the cotton gin and cotton picker American scientists also developed the refrigerator. For example, John Perkins 17661849 an American inventor patented the first prototype refrigerator in England in 1834. The first American patent for a refrigerator was awarded to John Gorrie 1803-1855 in 1851.1859- Ferdinand Carre, a Frenchman invented the absorption system in a refrigerator. This was a major milestone in preservation of meat and other foods in America. Several agricultural zones emerged in America due to differences in soil fertility and climate: a.


For example, John Perkins 17661849 an American inventor patented the first prototype refrigerator in England in 1834. The first American patent for a refrigerator was awarded to John Gorrie 1803-1855 in 1851.1859- Ferdinand Carre, a Frenchman invented the absorption system in a refrigerator. This was a major milestone in preservation of meat and other foods in America. Several agricultural zones emerged in America due to differences in soil fertility and climate: a. North-Eastern parts- Ranching and dairying b. The south- cotton zone. C. Central region-maize. D. North-west wheat There was large scale mechanized agriculture especially after the abolition of slave trade. Most cash crops were grown to provide raw materials to European industries. Tobacco was grown in Virginia and Maryland. Rice and indigo were grown in Georgia and South Carolina. Cattle s rearing was done in Texas. Transport development also enhanced agricultural development. For example, water transport using the great lakes, railway and road transport. Alexander graham bell invented the telegraph to enhance communication. USA also invested in the field of science and research which boosted agriculture with better hybrid seeds and different strains of livestock. FACTORS THAT FACILITATED THE DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICUL-TURE IN AMERICA BEFORE 1800 a. The enclosure system in Britain led to the Settlement of enterprising European emigrants who wished to make a living through agriculture Determination of European immigrants to succeed as farmers as there was no other source of livelihood. European For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 36 immigration into the region also led to population increase and demand for more food. The immigrants also introduced new crops and new methods of farming leading to agricultural development b. Scientific research made it possible to improve strains of crops to resist diseases, to develop superior animal breeds and to develop new food crops e.g. Soya beans into artificial meat, etc. C. Mechanization; there was extensive use of machines to improve production e.g. steel plough, use of reapers, cotton gin etc. D. The presence of cheap means of transport e.g. Erie Canal, roads, railway, etc speeded up the transportation of goods and raw materials. E. The invention of the cotton gin in 1793 led to increased cotton acreage. F. Environmental influence on the farmers through experience leading to agricultural zoning e.g.


The invention of the cotton gin in 1793 led to increased cotton acreage. F. Environmental influence on the farmers through experience leading to agricultural zoning e.g. maize in the centre, wheat in the south and beef rearing in the west Presence of suitable soils for different types of crops such as tobacco, cotton and wheat. G. Government recognition of individual land ownership the Homestead Act 1760 encouraged settlers to farm. EFFECTS OF THE AGRARIAN REVOLUTION IN USA Fuelled by peasants who emigrated after they were driven out of Europe by the land enclosure movement, USA became the world s leading producer of agricultural products. The effects of the revolution were as follows: a It led to diversification of agriculture through the introduction of new farm animals and crops. B The new inventions in farm machinery enabled American farmers to bring more land under cultivation. For example the steel plough invented by John Deere and reaping machine by Cyrus McCormick. C Food production especially of wheat and maize, increased due to the use of new farming methods like use of fertilizers and hybrid seeds. D The agrarian revolution led to expansion of agricultural related industries. E Mechanization of agriculture replaced slaves and other labourers at the farms. Many people went to search for employment in urban areas. F The expansion of food production led to increase in trade between USA and Western Europe thus boosting USA economy. G The transport system was improved to enable transportation of farm inputs to farms and agricultural produce to market. H The revolution contributed to the enhancement of research and scientific inventions especially on the field of agriculture. FOOD SITUATION IN AFRICA AND THE REST OF THE THIRD WORLD Third world refers to the less developed countries in Africa, Asia and South America. Many of these third world countries have food shortages and even continue to have weak economies upto date. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 37 Causes to food shortage in Africa a. Rapid population growth which has put a lot of pressure on the available food resources leading to shortages b. Poor land use and agricultural practices. Many farmers still depend on traditional farming methods, for example, not applying fertilizers, pesticides or mechanization, thus producing low yields. C. Some developing countries experience adverse weather conditions such as floods and long periods of drought. Since these countries practice rain-fed agriculture, food production has been affected d.


C. Some developing countries experience adverse weather conditions such as floods and long periods of drought. Since these countries practice rain-fed agriculture, food production has been affected d. Overemphasis on cash crops at the expense of food crops has contributed to low food production. In Kenya for example, large farms concentrate on growth of flowers, tea and coffee with food crop farming being largely for subsistence. E. Rural-urban migration , especially among the young people has deprived the rural areas of the badly needed labour force for food production f. Lack of adequate capital for agricultural development. Low income poverty. The farmers lack enough funds to purchase farm inputs. G. Political instability in some African countries undermines food production. For example in Ethiopia, Sudan, DRC, Burundi and Rwanda. This has prevented people from concentrating on food production. H. Decline in growing drought resistant crops. Crops like cassava and millet have been abandoned due to attitude thus causing artificial shortage of specific food. I. Poor and inadequate storage facilities have led to food wastage. In Kenya by 2001, the country was losing up to nine million bags of grain per year as a result of poor storage methods. J. Poor transport network leads to uneven distribution of food. It also discourages farmers from producing more. K. Over reliance on food aid and forms of aid has created a dependence attitude in many African countries. Some communities have become complacent about looking for a permanent solution to their food problems. L. Poor economic planning on the part of the government with many countries putting a lot of emphasis on other development projects at the expense of agricultural and food production. M. Poor land tenure systems resulting in low productivity. For example where a few European farmers own large tracts of land but only exploiting a small portion of the expansive farms. N. The HIV AIDS pandemic contributed to food shortages since the scourge leads to death of many of the work force in their prime years. Effects of food shortages a. Loss of life. Many people have lost their lives. For example the Ethiopian famine in 1984 led to the deaths of thousands of people. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 38 b. Increased suffering among millions of people in Africa due to deficiency diseases like kwashiorkor and marasmus. C. Food shortage has created social problems in societies. For example cattle raids by the karamojong and Maasai during the periods of famine.


The Eastern Cushites They include the Borana, Somali, Oromo, Gabra, Rendille and Burji. They originated either from Ethiopia or Somalia moving and settling into Kenya around 2000 and 1000 years ago due to the following reasons; a Escaping from clan or family feuds. B There was population pressure in their area of origin. C They were in search of better grazing lands. D They were fleeing the outbreak of disease that affected both people and animals. E They were escaping famine and drought. F They fled constant attacks from their neighbours such as the Somali. G The migrated to satisfy their spirit of adventure. THE OROMO They came in the 16thcentury from Ethiopia. Initially they settled on the eastern shores of Lake Turkana. They later moved south pushing the Mijikenda and the Pokomo out of the Shungwaya to occupy Malindi and Kilifi. Today they occupy the southern part of Tana River and are neighbours to the Pokomo. Effects of migration and settlement of the Oromo in Kenya a They inter-married with the people they came into contact with e.g. Somali, Pokomo and Borana. B Their settlement in Kenya led to expansion of trade. C Their settlement led to increased conflict between communities over resources e.g. pasture and water. D Displacement and redistribution of people in the area where they settled e.g. the Oromo pushed the Bantu from the Shungwaya region. E Assimilation of some communities they came into contact with e.g. the Oromo vs. Somali. F Cultural exchange e.g. neighbouring communities adopted Islam. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 41 g Settlement in high agricultural potential areas e.g. river valleys encouraged some of them to practice crop farming. H Expansion of agriculture due to demand of agricultural produce. THE BORANA They are also Oromo speaking people whose origin is southern Ethiopia. Their migration into Kenya was due to escaping the Menelik Wars of Conquest in 1897 and who had imposed heavy taxes on them. They represent some of the most recent migrations into Kenya end as late as 1900 when more Borana groups fled into Kenya from Somali running away from the war between the Somali Nationalists and the British. Today the Borana occupy the area north of the Tana River.


Their migration into Kenya was due to escaping the Menelik Wars of Conquest in 1897 and who had imposed heavy taxes on them. They represent some of the most recent migrations into Kenya end as late as 1900 when more Borana groups fled into Kenya from Somali running away from the war between the Somali Nationalists and the British. Today the Borana occupy the area north of the Tana River. THE SOMALI They originated from Mogadishu where they were living by 10th century A.D. They begun moving southwards into Kenya around that time maybe due to the Oromo threat or they were looking for pasture for their livestock. The Somali represent the largest single group of eastern Cushites in Kenya. Results of Cushitic migration into Kenya a There was massive warfare during the migrations leading to killing of many people in the process. For example, there was constant warfare between the Somali and the Oromo. I They displaced some of the communities which they came into contact with e.g. the Oromo pushed the Mijikenda from the Shungwaya region in AD 1500 AND 1600. B They intermarried with those people they interacted with e.g. the some of the Pokomo intermarried with the Borana. C Their settlement led to expansion development of trade between them and their neighbours e.g. they traded with the Samburu and the Maasai. D There was cultural exchange between them and the Bantu and Nilotic neighbours. E.g. the Taboo against eating Fish among the Bantu, the age set system and circumcision has origin from the Cushites. E The migrations led to population pressure in the region. F Adoption of some agricultural practices from the Bantu. G There was redistribution of population in Kenya. The Mijikenda for example were scattered at Shungwaya. THE BANTU SPEAKERS Introduction The term Bantu refers to group of people who speak the same or similar language with common word NTU which means a person. The Bantu-speaking groups include the Luhyia, Kisii, Kuria, Kikuyu, Akamba, Meru, Aembu, Taita, Agiryama, Digo in Kenya and Pokomo, as well as many other smaller groupsTheir original homeland was somewhere between eastern Nigeria and the Cameroon Congo Basin .


The Mijikenda for example were scattered at Shungwaya. THE BANTU SPEAKERS Introduction The term Bantu refers to group of people who speak the same or similar language with common word NTU which means a person. The Bantu-speaking groups include the Luhyia, Kisii, Kuria, Kikuyu, Akamba, Meru, Aembu, Taita, Agiryama, Digo in Kenya and Pokomo, as well as many other smaller groupsTheir original homeland was somewhere between eastern Nigeria and the Cameroon Congo Basin . For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 42 They then moved southwards towards present day Democratic Republic of Congo around 500 BC the Bantu were living in the Congo forest . This became a major dispersal point from where the Bantus moved in four major waves. Of these waves, the two waves that account for settle of the Bantu in Kenya are the ones moving southeastwards through the area west of LakeVictoria a 2nddispersal point for Bantus . From here they dispersed in two groups; A. some group passed through present-day Uganda , some settling there Baganda, Banyoro, Batoro , proceeding into kenya to form the western Bantu Luhyia, Kisii, Kuria and abasuba B. From the west Victoria dispersal point a group moved and entered east Africa at appoint south of Lake Victoria and then proceeded eastwards across northern Tanzania to a dispersal point between Taita hills and mt. Kilimanjaro. Some settled in Tanzania Chagga, nyamwezi, sukuma, Kuria, haya, Yao, Segeju, Zaramo .the rest of the groupproceeded northwards to the coast upto Shungwaya another dispersal point . These were the eastern Bantus. REASONS FOR THE BANTU MIGRATION The reasons for the migration of the Bantu are not known but they most likely included the following; a Drought and famine: This broke out because the climate in their cradle land had become unreliable unpredictable. B Population increase which resulted into population pressure, e.g. they became overpopulated in their cradle land.


REASONS FOR THE BANTU MIGRATION The reasons for the migration of the Bantu are not known but they most likely included the following; a Drought and famine: This broke out because the climate in their cradle land had become unreliable unpredictable. B Population increase which resulted into population pressure, e.g. they became overpopulated in their cradle land. C The constant attacks external pressure from stronger tribes in West Africa and the Nile valley; also due to the migration of the Arabs, who were believed to be more hostile, into West Africa. D Internal conflicts from the Bantu tribes: These conflicts concerned the ownership of agriculture area, the shortage of grazing lands and watering areas. E Epidemics and diseases natural calamities, e.g. earthquakes, over flooding of rivers like river Niger, sickness, diseases such as Nagana caused by Tsetse flies, sleeping sickness e.t.c. F Search for fertile land: Since they were predominantly farmers, the Bantu migrated in order to find more land which could be more fertile than the cradle land, which could no longer support them. G Love for adventure: They moved due to their desire for adventure, i.e. they wanted to find out what was happening in other areas. H Group influence: Some moved because they had seen their relatives and friends move. I Need for water and pasture for their animals forced them to move. J The Bantu migrated in order to export their iron-working culture. They had discovered the knowledge of iron working and had invented iron tools. These iron tools had For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 43 transformed the agricultural sector by making the clearing of land for cultivation faster and more efficient. The western Bantu They include Luhyia, Kisii, Kuria and abasuba and settled in western part of kenya thus their name. Abaluhyia The Abaluhyia community is made up of eighteen sub-groups. The sub-groups which constitute the community have a common background, common customs and speak closely related dialects of the same language. According to Abaluhyia tradition, communities used to hold criminal tribunals at the junctions of footpaths. The area at the junction of footpaths was known as Uluyia or a meeting point and it is claimed that the name Abaluhyia is derived from this.


Following an easterly course along the lake shore, they settled at the head of Goye Bay in Yimbo location of Nyanza with their homeland spreading across present day Ulowa, Sare and Unyejra at the foot of Ramogi hill. Luo migrants in 1550 AD found them settled in this general area and pushed them from alego to Kisumu where they lived upto 1600AD. Their migration from Kisumu to Kano was motivated by drought in the area.. However, their eastward migration was checked by the Maasai and the Kipsigis By the 18thcentury, they had settled in the Kisii highlands positively interacting with the neighboring Luo, Maasai and Kipsigis in terms of trade. Why the Abagusii remained in the Kano plains for too long before settling in the Kisii highlands. A They were obstructed by the Kipsigis who were migrating westwards. B The Maasai were also quite wild hostile. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 44 c The plains favored their activity of livestock grazing. D Lack of a strong warrior group to fight their expansionist wars against the warring neighbors. Abakuria The origin of the name Kuria is a thorny point in the Abakuria history. The major Abakuria sub-tribes such as Abanyabasi, Abatimbaru, Abanyamongo, Abakira, Abairegi and Abagumbe have traditions to the effect that their ancestor was Mokuria or Mukuria that lived in Msiri . His descendants migrated from Msiri and after many years of wandering on the other side of Lake Victoria; they eventually reached and settled in the present Bukuria By 1800AD, in south Nyanza. According to this tradition, the Abakuria have been divided from time immemorial into two families: the Abasai of the elder wife of Mokuria and the Abachuma of the younger wife. The Abakuria are related to Abalogoli of Abaluhyia and Abagusii and trace same origin at mt. Elgon dispersal point. The Abakuria people appear to have sprung from too many directions to have a common historical origin, although a number of clans claim to have come from Msiri.


The Abakuria are related to Abalogoli of Abaluhyia and Abagusii and trace same origin at mt. Elgon dispersal point. The Abakuria people appear to have sprung from too many directions to have a common historical origin, although a number of clans claim to have come from Msiri. Among the Abakuria today are found people who were originally from Kalenjin, Maasai, Bantu and Luo speaking communities. The Abakuria adopted the practice of age set organization and circumcision from the southern Cushites Abasuba The name Suba means the people who are always wandering . The Suba migrated into their current locations beginning in the mid-1700s. They came from the region just west of Lake Victoria and settled on the islands. The Suba migrated from Uganda and settled on the two Lake Victoria islands of Rusinga and Mfangano, and are believed to be the last tribe to have settled in Kenya. Other subgroups migrated and settled on the shores of Lake Victoria in the early 18th century. The Suba are descendants of one wave of the Bantu migration from Central Africa over the last 1500 to 1800 years. In the 16th century, it appears, small family groups related to the Ganda people on the western side of the lake migrated across Lake Victoria on boats to settle on Rusinga Island and other islands near what is now Kenya and Tanzania. The Suba are descendants of one wave of the Bantu migration from Central Africa over the last 1500 to 1800 years. In the 16th century, it appears, small family groups related to the Ganda people on the western side of the lake migrated across Lake Victoria on boats to settle on Rusinga Island and other islands near what is now Kenya and Tanzania. Linguistically, the Suba are highly influenced by the neighbouring Luo, to the point of a language shift having taken place among large portions of the mainland Suba. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 45 The remaining speakers of the Suba language are mostly elderly residents on the island of Mfangano. The eastern Bantu They are divided into Highland or Mt. Kenya Bantu and Coastal Bantu.


For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 45 The remaining speakers of the Suba language are mostly elderly residents on the island of Mfangano. The eastern Bantu They are divided into Highland or Mt. Kenya Bantu and Coastal Bantu. Coastal Bantu They include the Taita, Pokomo and Mijikenda. From the west Victoria dispersal point their first movement was upto Taita hills, where the Taita remained. The Mijikenda and Pokomo proceeded northwards to the coast upto Shungwaya another dispersal point . The main reason for the Shungwaya dispersal was the Oromo attack In AD 1600. Pokomo They moved from Shungwaya following river Tana interacting with the Cushites like the Oromoand Somali. Mijikenda The name means Nine Clans comprising of the Kauma, Giriama, Duruma, Chonyi, Jibana, Kambe, Ribe, Rabai and Digo. From the Shungwaya dispersal point, forced out by the Oromo Somali southwards expansionist attacks , they settled in fortified villages mainly due to security concerns. Each of the nine groups settled in their own separate ridge referred to as Kaya fortified with thorny trees. By the 19th, the Mijikenda were established as middlemen during the long distance trade between the Akamba and the coastal Waswahili. The highland Bantu Examples of highland Bantus include Agikuyu, Ameru, Aembu, Ambeere and the Akamba They are also products of the Shungwaya dispersion. Agikuyu The largest single group of the eastern group. While the Kikuyu can be found throughout Kenya, the heaviest concentration being in Central Province, known as the traditional Kikuyu homeland. The Kikuyu traditionally believe that a man, Gikuyu, was the founder of the tribe. He had a wife named Mumbi, who gave birth to nine plus one daughters. The daughters married and had their own families, retaining a domineering role in Kikuyu society. It was in Mukurwe wa Gathanga division of Nyeri district where an identifiable beginning for the modern Kikuyu people is defined.


He had a wife named Mumbi, who gave birth to nine plus one daughters. The daughters married and had their own families, retaining a domineering role in Kikuyu society. It was in Mukurwe wa Gathanga division of Nyeri district where an identifiable beginning for the modern Kikuyu people is defined. Ancestors of the Kikuyu arrived in Kenya during the Bantu migrations of 1200-1600 AD. The Agikuyu seem to have moved southwest from the coast at around 1400AD also running away from hostile Oromo. They followed Tana River with some groups falling off and settling in different places. For example the Tharaka settled in the east and the Ambeere settled in the southwest. The main group proceeded upto the confluence of rivers Tana and Thika Mukurwe wa Gathanga. They spread and settled in Kiambu and Nyandarua from Murang a. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 46 The key event in their migration and settlement was military conflict with and defeat of the Gumbapeople by the Mathira and Tetu people, allied with the Athi and the Maasai in the early 1800's. They displaced or absorbed the original inhabitants-the Dorobo Athi and Gumba who were a hunter- gatherer community. Settlement of the Nyeri plains took place after the British moved the Maasai from the area. The Kikuyu were in Kabete by around 1850, Ruiru about 1900. They heavily interacted with the Maasai and Cushites in the area. Describe the relationship between Athi and the Agikuyu a The Athi were the original inhabitants of the land where the Agikuyu live presently. B The Agikuyu claim they bought the land from the Athi. C The Agikuyu also acquired some cultural practices from the Athi e.g. circumcision, clitoridectomy and age set system. D The Athi acted as middlemen in the trade between the Agikuyu, Maasai and the coastal people. Akamba They point to the area around mt Kilimanjaro as their original homeland. From here they moved to Taita Hills before reaching Tsavo West.


D The Athi acted as middlemen in the trade between the Agikuyu, Maasai and the coastal people. Akamba They point to the area around mt Kilimanjaro as their original homeland. From here they moved to Taita Hills before reaching Tsavo West. They followed the Banks of Athi River in the 15thcentury one group crossing Athi into Ulu. Another group moved south to the Galana River and settled in the region around chyulu hills north of mt. Kilimanjaro By around mid 16thcentury a group of the Akamba had settled in the Mbooni hills near Machakos. Due to environmental influence, the Akamba near Mbooni began to practice agriculture before migrating to iveti, kilungu and masaku. Those that moved to drier Chyulu hills became hunters. The Kitui group adopted pastoralism and hunting and participated in long distance trade. The Ameru Their original homeland is claimed to Mbwa, located somewhere at the coast on manda island. The Shungwaya dispersal might have led to the pushing of the Ameru to tigania and igembe regions at around 1400AD. They crossed the Tana River with the Tharaka sections of Agikuyu and settled to the east of tana. The Chuka section settled in the west of river tana. The mwimbi, imenti, tigania and igembe also settled west of the Tana River. According to tradition, the Meru and Agikuyu were initially migrating as one group and separated at around 15thc and 16thc. Effects of the Bantu Migration The results of the Bantu migration were both positive and negative. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 47 Positive results 1. Introduction of iron working the use of iron tools in the interior of East Africa where peoplewere at first using stone tools. There was an increase in food production. 2. Introduction of new crops e.g. yams, bananas: the Bantu introduced and increased the knowledge of food and extensive crop cultivation. Earlier on, the inhabitants of East Africa were food gatherers, but with iron smelting and its results, food production seriously started. 3. The absorbed other tribes e.g.


Earlier on, the inhabitants of East Africa were food gatherers, but with iron smelting and its results, food production seriously started. 3. The absorbed other tribes e.g. the gathers: This led to widespread Bantu languages of NTU prefix in East Africa. 4. They introduced centralized administration: They introduced a centralized system of government whereby the king acted as the overall ruler, under who were the other chiefs, down to the lay person. This was done in western Kenya by the Wanga. 5. Introduced a system of building permanent homes: They opened new land to settlement in families, clans and villages. 6. The knowledge of iron smelting which the Bantu introduced led to the making of hoes and pangas for tilling and clearing land, the bows, arrows and spears for defense and protection. 7. They introduced subsistence agriculture, whereby they grew enough food for home consumption, and the rest could be kept in case of shortages, or be exchanged in barter trade. Negative effects 1. The Bantu migration led to depopulation: This was caused by the frequent attacks made on the Bantu by Somali and Oromo, or by the Bantu against the people East Africa for land, through wars. 2. There was loss of culture due to cultural absorption: This was brought about due to Bantu intermarrying with the non- Bantu peoples, whom they came across. 3. There was transformation of languages into new ones: This led to the dying down of some of the Bantu languages, while others remained. The Nilotic speakers Nilotes is a term originating from the word Nile. The origin of these groups is associated with the Nile River. These are the second largest group after the Bantu. They are divided into three groups; a River-lake nilotes- the Luo. B Plains nilotes- the Maasai, Tunkana and Samburu. C Highlands nilotes- kalenjin groups of the Marakwet, Tugen, Nandi, Kipsigis, Elgeyo , Pokot and Sabaot River-lake nilotes They are sometimes referred to as the southern Luos to differentiate them from other riverlake nilotes in Uganda and Sudan like the Dinka, Shilluk, Bor , Anwak, Alur, Acholi, Jopaluo, Padhola, Nuer and Luo of Uganda.


They are divided into three groups; a River-lake nilotes- the Luo. B Plains nilotes- the Maasai, Tunkana and Samburu. C Highlands nilotes- kalenjin groups of the Marakwet, Tugen, Nandi, Kipsigis, Elgeyo , Pokot and Sabaot River-lake nilotes They are sometimes referred to as the southern Luos to differentiate them from other riverlake nilotes in Uganda and Sudan like the Dinka, Shilluk, Bor , Anwak, Alur, Acholi, Jopaluo, Padhola, Nuer and Luo of Uganda. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 48 They are believed to have originated from Bahr-el-Ghazal region of southern Sudan. They then migrated to Pubungu Pakwach in Uganda where they settled by 1450 AD. They later moved into Kenya. Their arrival caused the displacement of many Bantuspeaking peoples, notably the Gusii, Kuria and Luhya, who were forced into the highlands east and north of the lake. Why did they leave Bahr-el-Ghazal region? A They might have been Escaping from clan or family feuds. B There was population pressure in their area of origin. C They were nomadic pastoralists in search of better grazing lands and water for their livestock d They were fleeing the outbreak of disease that affected both people and animals. E They were escaping famine and drought. F They fled constant attacks from their neighbours. G They were also looking for better fishing grounds. H The migrated to satisfy their spirit of adventure. Their migration into Kenya began in the 15thc. They moved in four distinct groups; a Joka-jok- people of jok. Was the first group to enter into kenya from Uganda. They first settled at Ramogi hills in Kadimo Siaya district displacing the earlier Gusii settlers. Two of Jok s sons fled to south Nyanza to form the Karachuonyo and Wanjare clans. Thisgroup spread to Sakwa, Alego, Asembo and other parts of Nyanza. B Joka-Owiny. Owiny moved from Uganda to settle in Sogoma in Alego with his group in the 17thc.


Thisgroup spread to Sakwa, Alego, Asembo and other parts of Nyanza. B Joka-Owiny. Owiny moved from Uganda to settle in Sogoma in Alego with his group in the 17thc. He was both a great fighter and leader Ruoth . He came to be known as Owiny Sigoma and his people Joka Ruoth. This group settled in Kisumu, Nyakach and South Nyanza. C Joka-Omolo. They came from northern Banyoro and settled temporarily in Ibanda and Bukoli before moving to Ugenya and Gem. They displaced the Abagusii and Abalogoli out of Yimbo. They spread to Alego and then across winam gulf into south nyanza. D The abasuba. They are Bantu in origin but are associated with the Luo. They are a mixture of Bantu refugees from Uganda who intermarried with the Luo. They settled in the Lake Victoria islands of Mfangano and Rusinga and also in gwasi area. They adopted Luo culture. Effects of Luo Migration a The settlement of the Luo in Kenya led to increase in population in the area. B Their arrival intensified conflicts between them and other communities in the area over limited resources. For example they displaced the western Bantu like the Abaluhyia, Abakuria and Abagusii c There were intermarriages between the Luo and the Luyia and Maasai groups in the area. D The Luo assimilated some Luhyia communities living in the area. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 49 e Their settlement enhanced trade with different communities; they exchanged livestock products for grains with the Luyia. F The Luo adopted agriculture as a result of interacting with the Bantus who were farmers. Plain Nilotes They include the Maasai and Samburu Maa speakers , Iteso, Turkana and Njemps. The Plain Nilotes entered Kenya at around AD 1000 from an area north of Lake Turkana. Why they moved into Kenya: a Drought and famine that broke out in their cradleland. B Population increase which resulted into population pressure in their cradle land. C The external pressure from stronger neighbours.


Why they moved into Kenya: a Drought and famine that broke out in their cradleland. B Population increase which resulted into population pressure in their cradle land. C The external pressure from stronger neighbours. D Internal conflicts from among other Nilotic groups concerning the ownership of grazing lands and watering areas. E Epidemics and diseases like sleeping sickness affecting both humans and animals. F They moved due to their desire for adventure, i.e. they wanted to find out what was happening in other areas. G Need for water and pasture for their animals forced them to move. Their first point of settlement was near Mount Moroto in eastern Uganda by AD 1000. From here, several groups like the Jie, Iteso, Turkana and karamojong emerged, with the Iteso settling in Uganda in 17thc before expanding into western Kenya by 19thc. The Turkana extended northwards to their present area. The effects of the migration and settlement of the iteso a The settlement of the iteso in their present region led to increase in population in the area. B It intensified conflicts between them and other commu nities in the area over limited resources. C There were intermarriages between the iteso and the Luyia groups in the area. D Cultural interaction giving rise to enriched cultures. E Some people were displaced from the area with the arrival of the iteso. E.g. the Maasai and some kalenjin communities. F The iteso assimilated some communities living in the area. G Their settlement enhanced trade with different communities; they exchanged livestock products for grains with the Luyia. H The iteso adopted agriculture as a result of interacting with the Bantus who were farmers The Maasai Their movement from north of lake Turkana is closely associated with the original Kalenjin speakers. By AD 1500, the Maasai begun to move separately southwards between Mt,. Kenya and Mt. Elgon. By 19thc , they had settled in Uasin Gishu and even spread into Tanzania along the Rift Valley. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 50 As they moved, they assimilated the Sirikwa peoples. They also waged war against the neighbouring Kalenjin, Akamba and Abagusii.


By 19thc , they had settled in Uasin Gishu and even spread into Tanzania along the Rift Valley. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 50 As they moved, they assimilated the Sirikwa peoples. They also waged war against the neighbouring Kalenjin, Akamba and Abagusii. In the 1850s the Maasai experienced many natural disasters like drought, famine and cattle diseases leading to decline of their power. They also experienced civil wars between the Kwavi iloikop and the Purko Ilmaasai sections. When Oloibon Mbatian died, his two sons Sendeyo and Lenana became involved in a protracted succession dispute. They were also weakened by wars with the Agikuyu. Their power came to an end with the coming of British rule. Effects of the migration and settlement of the plain nilotes into Kenya a The migration and settlement of the Maasai in their present region led to increase in population in the area. B As they migrated, into Kenya, the Maasai pushed and displaced the communities they came across. For example, they subdued the Nandi in the 18thc. C The Maasai influenced the fighting tactics of other groups in Kenya. D The Maasai absorbed the southern Cushites such as the Dorobo. E There were intermarriages between the Maasai and the Akamba, Agikuyu and even the kalenjin groups in the area. F There was Cultural interaction giving rise to enriched cultures. They adopted some cultural practices from the southern Cushites for example, the age-set systems circumcision and clitoridectomy. They also adopted some Kalenjin vocabulary. G Their settlement enhanced trade with different communities; they exchanged livestock products for grains with the Luyia. H A section of the Maasai adopted agriculture as a result of interacting with their agricultural neighbours in the Rift Valley. The Kwavi Maasai became mixed farmers. I They influenced Communities like the Nandi who adopted the institution of Prophet or diviner from the institution of Laibon among the Maasai. The Highland Nilotes They comprise the kalenjin speakers namely the Tugen, Nandi, Kipsigis, Marakwet, Keiyo, Pokot and Sabaot. They are believed to be the earliest Nilotic speakers in Kenya.


I They influenced Communities like the Nandi who adopted the institution of Prophet or diviner from the institution of Laibon among the Maasai. The Highland Nilotes They comprise the kalenjin speakers namely the Tugen, Nandi, Kipsigis, Marakwet, Keiyo, Pokot and Sabaot. They are believed to be the earliest Nilotic speakers in Kenya. This evidenced from the narratives of their neighbours like the Luo. Their traditions point their original homeland to be a place to the north-western part of Kenya, between Sudan and Ethiopia. Why they migrated: a They might have been Escaping from internal enemies causing clan or family feuds. B There was population pressure in their area of origin forcing them to look for new land for settlement. C They were fleeing the outbreak of diseases and epidemics that affected both people and animals. D They were escaping famine and drought. E They fled constant attacks from their neighbours. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 51 f They were also looking for better lands for cultivation. G The migrated to satisfy their spirit of adventure. Key notes for the teacher and students- Helot 2012-2013 49 They began migrating from their cradleland in around 600AD. By 700AD, some kalenjin groups like the Sirikwa were already occupying the rift valley. Some were later pushed out of the Mt. elgon region by the incoming Bantu and plain nilotes. Those that remained include the Bok, Bongomek and Kony. The Terik later migrated to western Kenya and greatly borrowed from the Bantu, adopting a new name, Tiriki. The Nandi. They were pushed out of the Mt. Elgon region between 1700 and 1800 by the incoming Maasai. The decline of the Maasai in the 19thc made them rise to become a formidable group that conducted raids against their neighbours like the Abaluhyia and Luo. Their power only declined due to colonization. The Kipsigis They are believed to have separated together with the Nandi from other kalenjin groups at around Mt. Elgon region around AD1600. They moved south east to Teo, near Lake Baringo. Due to the Maasai attacks, they moved westwards to Tambach where they stayed for a long period.


Elgon region around AD1600. They moved south east to Teo, near Lake Baringo. Due to the Maasai attacks, they moved westwards to Tambach where they stayed for a long period. They later moved southwards to Rongai near Nakuru. They only separated from the Nandi due to drought and the Maasai Raids on the Nandi. The Kipsigis moved further south to Kericho while the Nandi moved to Aldai during the 2nd half of 18thc. The Kipsigis settled at Kipsigis Hills forming a strong community that assimilated thelegendary Sirikwa and some Maasai and Abagusii groups. They were for a long time allies of the Nandi. What factors contributed to the Nandi and Kipsigis split during the mid 18th century. A Maasai attacks on the two communities forcing each group to find its own means of Defence. B Drought which caused scattering in search of food and pasture. C Constant conflicts over the limited resources in the region leading to warfare and final split. Results of the Highland nilotes migration a It increased intercommunity conflicts in the region. B Some of the Kalenjin groups assimilated Bantu cultures while their culture was also assimilated by other groups. The Terik for example borrowed many Bantu vocabularies and customs. C They intermarried with other groups in the region, such as the Abagusii and the Luo. D Their migration increased trading activities in the region. E They displaced the people they came across e.g. the Abagusii and the Kwavi Maasai For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 52 Explain the results of the interactions between the various Kenyan communities during the pre-colonial period. A Through the inter-tribal wars, there was loss of lives and destruction of property hence economic decline. B Many communities were displaced as new ones arrived. E.g when the Luos arrived, Abagusii and sections of the Abaluhyia were displaced. Etc. C The constant raids as a means of interaction led to some communities seeking for refugee in secure places. E.g the Abagusii too refugee in the present Kisii highland due to the Kipsigis, Nandi and Maasai raids in 1800AD.


Etc. C The constant raids as a means of interaction led to some communities seeking for refugee in secure places. E.g the Abagusii too refugee in the present Kisii highland due to the Kipsigis, Nandi and Maasai raids in 1800AD. D A sense of unity developed among some communities e.g. among the Luo, as a means of Defence against attacks by the Maasai, Nandi and Abaluhyia. E Tension between various communities was reduced as they interacted through intermarriages e.g. between the Agikuyu and the Maasai. F Some new customs found their way into various communities. E.g the Bantu and the nilotes learned of circumcision and age set system from the southern Cushites. G New technology infused into various communities. E.g. the Bantu and the nilotes learned the art of cattle milking and bleeding, irrigation and manuring from the southern Cushites. H Specialization emerged mainly due to inter-community trade in the region. I There was also increased wealth in some communities. For example through the trade between the Agikuyu and the Akamba, some Agikuyu gained wealth. J New economic activities sprung up in some communities. E.g. the Maasai adopted crop cultivation from the Agikuyu. K The Bantu language was enriched through the borrowing of some vocabulary from the southern Cushites. L The Abakuria were able to develop into a distinct ethnic group as a result of constant raids from the Maasai and the Luo. SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL ORGANIZATION OF KENYAN COMMUNITIES IN THE 19THCENTURY THE BANTU Social organization Almost all the Bantu communities were organized in clans made up of people with common descent. All the Bantu communities practiced circumcision. In some communities like the Akamba, Abaluhyia, only boys circumcised. Among the Abagusii and Agikuyu, both boys and girls were circumcised. The initiates were taught the values and customs of their community Circumcision marked an entry into an age set whose functions included defending the community from external attacks, building huts and advising junior age-sets on how to raid.


In some communities like the Akamba, Abaluhyia, only boys circumcised. Among the Abagusii and Agikuyu, both boys and girls were circumcised. The initiates were taught the values and customs of their community Circumcision marked an entry into an age set whose functions included defending the community from external attacks, building huts and advising junior age-sets on how to raid. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 53 All the Bantu communities believed in the existence of a supernatural power that controlled their destiny. The Abaluhyia, for example called their God Were or Nyasaye, the AgikuyuNgai etc. The Bantu communities had diviners and medicineman. Among the Agikuyu community, a medicine person was called mundu mugo. The Bantu celebrated life both in song and dance. There were songs for initiations, childbirth, marriage, harvest and funeral. The mood and style of their song and dances varied depending on the occasion. Political organization of the Bantu All the Bantu communities in Kenya, except the Wanga sub-group of the Luhyia, had decentralized forms of government. The clan formed the basic political unit for all the Bantu communities. Each clan was made up of related families. Leadership of the clan was in the hands of a council of elders who played a pivoted role in solving disputes, decided on inter-tribal marriages, maintaining law and order and making executive decisions affecting the community like declaring war. Among the Agikuyu and Ameru, the council was known as Kiama, Kambi among Mijikenda, Njama among Ataveta and Abagata ba gesaku among the Gusii. The Bantu had an age-set system that had some political significance. For example among the Agikuyu, the boys joined the age-set after initiation to provide warriors who defended the community from external attacks and raid other communities for cattle. Among the centralized Wanga government, the king was known as Nabongo. His office was hereditary. He was assisted by a chief minister and other officials with a council of elders. Economic organization of the Bantu The Bantu kept Livestock like sheep, cattle and goats for milk, meat and skin. Dowry was paid inform of livestock. Some communities used livestock as a form of currency in barter trade.


Economic organization of the Bantu The Bantu kept Livestock like sheep, cattle and goats for milk, meat and skin. Dowry was paid inform of livestock. Some communities used livestock as a form of currency in barter trade. They traded among themselves and also with their neighbours such as the Luo, kalenjin and Maasai. They sold grains in exchange for baskets and fish from the Luo. They practiced iron-smelting, making implements such as knives, hoes arrow heads and spearheads. This sometimes also became trading items. The Bantu practiced crop growing. They grew grains like millet, sorghum and cassava among other crops mainly for food while the excess were sold to neighbours. They practiced craft making pots and weaving baskets. For the Bantu communities who lived along rivers and Lake Victoria, e.g. the Luhyia, they practiced fishing. Hunting and gathering was also done by some communities to supplement their food. E.g. the Akamba. Raiding other communities for cattle. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 54 The Agikuyu. By 19thcentury, the Agikuyu had a complex social, economic and political organization some of which were products of their interrraction with other communities. Social organization The family was the smallest social unit among the Agikuyu. It was headed by a father. Several families that shared a common ancestry comprised a clan. The Agikuyu had rites of passage which included initiation of both boys and girls through circumcision clitoridectomy. The initiated boys joined the age-set riikaor mariika after being educated on the values and customs of the society. It was only after initiation that boys and girls were considered mature enough to get married. The Agikuyu believed in the existence of one God who controlled their destiny. They called their God Ngai. He was all powerful and as believed to dwell o mt. Kirinyaga where they claim he created them. They also had diviners whose main work was to interpret God s message to the people. The Agikuyu had medicineman. A medicine person was called mundu mugo. Their main work was to cure diseases. They learned their skills through apparent-iceship.


A medicine person was called mundu mugo. Their main work was to cure diseases. They learned their skills through apparent-iceship. The Agikuyu had designated sacred places for prayers, worship and offerings an example was the mugumo tree for offering sacrifices . Marriage was an important institution among the Agikuyu. The political organization of the Agikuyu The Agikuyu had a decentralized system of government. The basic political system was based on the family headed by a father. Several families made up a clan Mbari . Each clan was ruled by a council of elders. Kiama . A senior elder Muramati coordinated the activities of the clan. Several elders aramati formed a higher council of elders kiama kia athamaki The functions of the higher council of elders included settling disputes, deliberating on day to day activities, administering justice and handled disputes, inheritance disputes and acted as a final court of appeal. They had warriors drawn from the age-set system, who defended the community from external aggression. Economic organization of the Agikuyu The Agikuyu engaged in various economic activities; The Agikuyu kept Livestock like sheep, cattle and goats for milk, meat and skin. Dowry was paid inform of livestock. They traded among themselves and with their neighbours such as the Akamba and Maasai. They sold grains and iron implements in exchange for livestock products like skins and beads Maasai and imported goods like clothes Akamba . For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 55 They practiced iron-smelting, making implements such as knives, hoes which enhanced their farming activities and trade. They borrowed this art from the Gumba. They practiced crop growing. They grew grains like millet, yams, sweet potatoes, arrowroots, sorghum and cassava among other crops mainly for food while the excess were sold to neighbours. They practiced craft making pots and weaving baskets. Hunting and gathering was also done by Agikuyu to supplement their food. The Ameru The Ameru had a system of government which ensured high standards of morality and stability. This system evolved as they migrated and interacted with other communities.


Hunting and gathering was also done by Agikuyu to supplement their food. The Ameru The Ameru had a system of government which ensured high standards of morality and stability. This system evolved as they migrated and interacted with other communities. Social organization of the Ameru The Ameru was a system characterized by the existence of various councils from the council of children to the supreme council of Njuri Ncheke. This was meant to ensure the highest moral standards in the community. The Njuri Ncheke acted as parliament and had the following functions; It presided over religious ceremonies. It solved disputes in the community. It also mediated in disputes involving the Meru and their neighbors It ensured the custody of the community s history, traditions and values heritage It sanctioned wars Acted as ritual leaders. They provided Guidance and counseling community members. It set the moral code to be adhered to by all members of the community. If one went against the moral code, he she would be punished. A member of the Njuri Ncheke who offended another was fined a bundle of miraa. A warrior who violated the code was fined a bull, an elder who violated the code was fined a bull or a goat, a woman who broke the code was fined a big pot of cowpeas. Marriage was regarded highly among the Ameru and a married woman would be assigned to an elderly woman midwife whom she must give gifts like millet, peas and black beans in exchange for midwifery. Any spouse who involved in adultery or any girl who was not a virgin at the time of marriage was stoned to death by a stoning council made up of male initiates. Marriage was exogamous no one was allowed to marry from their clan Before a male child was considered mature, he underwent several stages including circumcision. Before circumcision of both boys and girls, two ceremonies were performed after which they became full members of the community. The time of making spots where the ear-hole perforation would be done. The time of actual perforation of the ears. The Ameru believed in the existence of a supreme being called Baaba Weetu who was a loving father and took care of all. He was omnipresent. The Ameru also believed in the existence of spirits which either brought happiness or tears depending on how one lived on earth.


The Ameru believed in the existence of a supreme being called Baaba Weetu who was a loving father and took care of all. He was omnipresent. The Ameru also believed in the existence of spirits which either brought happiness or tears depending on how one lived on earth. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 56 They believed in life after death with good people going where rains come from when they die. Libations were offered to ancestors to quench their thirst and relieve their hunger Building houses in the Ameru community was the work of women while men defended the community. Economic organization of the Ameru The Ameru cultivated grain crops like millet, peas, black beans, cowpeas and miraa among other crops mainly for food while the excess were sold to neighbours. The Ameru kept Livestock like sheep. Goats and cattle for dowry payment and rituals and also for milk, meat and skin. They traded among themselves and with their neighbours. When the coastal traders penetrated the interior, they exchanged goods with them They practiced iron-smelting, making implements such as knives, spears and hoes which enhanced their farming activities and trade. They practiced craft making pots and weaving baskets. Hunting and gathering was also done by Ameru to supplement their food. Political organization of the Ameru The basic political system was based on the family headed by a father. The basic political unit was the clan. Several families made up a clan headed by a clan elder. The Ameru had a system of councils and age groups which oversaw the administration of the community. Every Meru belonged to the relevant council. E.g. the children s council, council of elders council of warriors. The supreme council was known as Njuri Ncheke. The functions of the supreme council of elders included settling disputes, deliberating on day to day activities, administering justice and handled disputes, inheritance disputes and acted as a final court of appeal. It also officiated over religious ceremonies The age set system provided the community with warriors who defended the community from external aggression. Religions leaders like prophets influenced the political administration for the Ameru. Their system of government alternated between two organizations namely, Kiruga and Ntiba every fourteen years and each had its own army regiment.


It also officiated over religious ceremonies The age set system provided the community with warriors who defended the community from external aggression. Religions leaders like prophets influenced the political administration for the Ameru. Their system of government alternated between two organizations namely, Kiruga and Ntiba every fourteen years and each had its own army regiment. The Akamba The Akamba are of the eastern Bantus who settled in Chyulu hills, Mbooni, Kitui and Machakos. Social organization Like other Bantus, the Akamba were organized into clans whose members claimed commondescent. The Akamba practiced exogamous marriages. However their tradition allowed the adoption of an outsider into a clan For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 57 Wrongdoers among the Akamba were banished from the community if they refused to compensate for the wrong did. There existed no institutional age sets among the Akamba though boys and girls were circumcised before reaching puberty. The initiates were then taught community secrets after two years from circumcision at 14 years At puberty, both men and women were allowed to marry and bear children with the father of a young family automatically becoming a junior elder until his children were ready to be circumcised. He then moved to the next grade only after paying a bullock and several goats. The top two grades formed the administrative council of the community mainly dealing with the ritual ceremonies. The Akamba believed in the existence of a creator called Ngai or Mulungu whom they prayed to through ancestral spirits. The Akamba had ritual experts who included medicine people that guided them in their rituals. Shrines also existed where offerings and sacrifices were made by the elders called Atumia ma ithembo. Mostly found at a place with two large fig trees. The Akamba had many social ceremonies which were accompanied with festivity dance and music. For example, during harvest, weddings, deaths and birth. Political organization The smallest political unit among the Akamba was the homestead, Musyi comprising three to four generations of extended family with a stockade round the home of each married man. Outside the entrance of the homestead, there was an open space thome , where men would sit and discuss political and other important matters.


For example, during harvest, weddings, deaths and birth. Political organization The smallest political unit among the Akamba was the homestead, Musyi comprising three to four generations of extended family with a stockade round the home of each married man. Outside the entrance of the homestead, there was an open space thome , where men would sit and discuss political and other important matters. Several related families formed a wider territorial grouping or clan with its own recreational ground, elder s council made of all the male elders , war leader and palace for worship The clan was the main political unit for the Akamba. There was also a larger territorial grouping above the clan called Kivalo that constituted a fighting unit. There was however no single central authority that united the Akamba the Kivalo was always disbanded after war. Age grades and age sets were common to all in the community and acted as a unifying factor. The elders in the community were ranked according to seniority. Junior elders defended their community. Medium elders Nthele assisted in the administration of the community. The full elders Atumia ma Kivalo participated in delivering judgements. The senior most elders Atumia ma Ithembo were involved in religious activities. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 58 By 19th century, due to participation and gaining from trade, a number of people had gained prestige and followers to be regarded as Akamba chiefs or leaders. For example, chief Kivoi. Economic organization Due to variation in the environment, the Akamba participated in varied economic activities. Those who lived around the fertile Mbooni, ulu and Iveti hills practiced farming. They planted sorghum, millet, yams, potatoes, sugarcane and beans. Those who lived in the drier areas like Kitui practiced livestock farming and mainly transhumance during the drier period. The Akamba were also hunters hunting for elephants, leopards, antelopes and Rhinos. They were gatherers who Collected fruits, roots etc. They practiced trading activities e.g. they sold Ivory, feathers, shells hides, arrows, spearheads, to neighbours and the Arabs, Swahili traders. The Akamba were skilled Iron workers produced spears, arrow heads, hoes, knives.


They practiced trading activities e.g. they sold Ivory, feathers, shells hides, arrows, spearheads, to neighbours and the Arabs, Swahili traders. The Akamba were skilled Iron workers produced spears, arrow heads, hoes, knives. The Akamba Practiced woodcarving making tools and shields. They engaged in pottery, making pots, mats etc. They were bee-keepers for honey which they sold. The Akamba acted as middlemen during the long distance trade. The Abagusii They originated in the Congo Forest like other Bantus and settled in the fertile highlands of Kisii, Gucha and Nyamira Districts of Nyanza Province. Political Organization The clan formed the basic political unit for Gusii communities. Each clan was made up of related families. Leadership of the clan was in the hands of a council of elders who played a pivoted role in solving disputes, decided on inter-tribal marriages, maintaining law and order and making executive decisions affecting the community like declaring war. The council was known Abagata ba gesaku. The Abagusii also had chiefdoms made up of several clans, which United to counter-attacks from their neighbours. Each chiefdom was headed by a chief Omugambi , assisted by a councilof clan elders. The elders acted as middlemen through whom people could communicate their wishes and grievances to the chief. The position of the chief was hereditary. The Omogambi presided over religious ceremonies. He led clan members in communal sacrifices and social activities such as the planting and harvesting of crops. He also performed political functions. After circumcision, the boys joined the age-set which acted as a military wing responsible for the defence of the community. The Kisii still practice most of the political features discussed above. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 59 Social organization The Abagusii lived in family unit, headed by a family member, called the family head. Several related families formed a clan, headed by clan elders who formed a council. The role of the council of elders was to settle disputes between families. A number of clans formed sub-communities headed by clan elders. Circumcision of boys and girls formed part of the initiation rites for the Abagusii. The initiates were taught the values and customs of the society after which they were considered adults. The initiated boys were organized into age groups and age-grades.


The role of the council of elders was to settle disputes between families. A number of clans formed sub-communities headed by clan elders. Circumcision of boys and girls formed part of the initiation rites for the Abagusii. The initiates were taught the values and customs of the society after which they were considered adults. The initiated boys were organized into age groups and age-grades. An age-grade was made up of people who were circumcised together. Members of the same age-grade treated one another as real brothers and helped each other in times of need. They believed in the existence of a supreme god, engoro who was the creator of everything. They offered sacrifices to him during special occasions like initiation ceremonies and religions festivals and when there were problems like illness and draught. They worshipped him through their ancestral spirits. Diviners and seers among the Kisii were special people and were called Omoragori. Economic organization The Abagusii practiced crop farming. They grew many food crops including maize, sorghum, yams, peas, beans, millet, cassava, bananas and sweet potatoes. They also kept livestock, cattle, goats and sheep were kept for meat and milk. They also kept poultry. Trading was also a main economic activity among the Abagusii. They traded with their neighbours especially the Luo and the Abaluhyia. The Luo supplied them with livestock, cattle, salt, hides, fish, drums, and poison for arrows, spears and potatoes. In return, the Abagusii supplied the Luo with grain, hoes, axes, spears, arrowheads, razors, soapstone, soapstone dust, baboon skins, pipes, bowls and carvings of animals and birds. The Abagusii were also involved in iron-working, which they kept secret to avoid competition from their neighbours. They made iron implements such as hoes, spears, axes and arrow heads. They also made ornaments. They mined soapstone on the hilltops. They used is dust to decorate their faces during ceremonies. Some was sold to the Luos who used to decorate faces of their heroes. It was used for making pots, pipes, bowls and carvings. They also depended on hunting and gathering to supplement the other economies. They hunted wild game for meat and skins. They also collected wild fruit roots and vegetables. The Abagusii raided their neighbours for livestock.


They hunted wild game for meat and skins. They also collected wild fruit roots and vegetables. The Abagusii raided their neighbours for livestock. To date, they still raid the Maasai and Kipsigis for livestock. The Mijikenda The Mijikenda comprise of nine groups that had similar social, economic and political structures. They are believed to have arrived in their current settlement from Shungwaya. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 60 Social organization of the Mijikenda The Mijikenda were organized in clans comprising of related families. The Mijikenda practiced circumcision. Only boys circumcised. Circumcision marked an entry into an age set whose functions included building huts and advising junior age sets on how to raid. They believed in the existence of a supernatural power that controlled their destiny. They called their God Mulungu. The Mijikenda worshipped ancestral spirits. Prophets among the Mijikenda were called wafisi. Marriage among the Mijikenda was exogamous no one was allowed to marry from their clan . They practiced polygamy There was division of labour among the Mijikenda. Children looked after livestock, young men built houses, cattle sheds, hunted and cleared bushes for cultivation.. The Mijikenda celebrated social ceremonies in song and dance. There were songs for initiations, childbirth, marriage, harvest and funeral.. Political organization The Mijikenda had a strong clan system. Administration was based on a strong clan system. 4-6 clans lived in a fortified village known as kaya. The existence of a council of elders Kambi at clan level to settle disputes and the general administration of the clan An age set riika system formed by young men after circumcision and which provided the base from which warriors were obtained. Social and political unity was strengthened through intermarriage between different clans. Judicial matters were handled by the elders council which was final court of appeal. The council of elders declared war on warring neighbors. Economic organization The Mijikenda kept Livestock like sheep, cattle and goats for milk, meat and skin. Hunting and gathering was also done to supplement their food They traded in the coastal trade with the Arabs and with the Akamba from interior.


The council of elders declared war on warring neighbors. Economic organization The Mijikenda kept Livestock like sheep, cattle and goats for milk, meat and skin. Hunting and gathering was also done to supplement their food They traded in the coastal trade with the Arabs and with the Akamba from interior. The Mijikenda practiced salt mining which the used as a trading item. The Mijikenda engaged in fishing along the coast as well as on rivers. They practiced crop growing. They grew grains like millet, yams, sweet potatoes, arrowroots, sorghum, coconut and cassava among other crops mainly for food while the excess were sold to neighbours. They practiced craft making pots and weaving baskets using coconut leaves. NILOTES The second largest group in Kenya. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 61 Social organization There were slight variations in the social organizations of the various Nilotic groups in Kenya. However they shared institutions such as the clan-based organization, belief in one God, veneration of ancestral spirits, age-set system, social ceremonies and existence of religious leaders. The family was the basic social unit in many communities. Several related families grouped together to form clans among the Luo, Maasai and Nandi. They believed in one supernatural being. The Maasai referred to him as Engai while the Luo called Him Nyasaye. The communities believed in the existence of ancestral spirits, to whom sacrifices and libations were made to ensure they remained happy. There was the existence of religious leaders whose work was to lead the communitiesduring religious functions and rituals. Some of the religious leaders had assumed political power by 19th c. For example the Orkoiyot among the Nandi and Oloibon among the Maasai. The Maasai and other Nilotic groups had rain makers and diviners. The age-set system was another common social institution. The age sets were formed by those who were initiated at the same time. The institution created a bond among the initiates that cut across the families and clans thus uniting the whole community. There were social ceremonies that accompanied the rites of passage like circumcision, marriage and death. The Luo as their form of initiation extracted six lower teeth. The other groups practiced circumcision. In all the groups, the initiates were taught the community values.


The Luo as their form of initiation extracted six lower teeth. The other groups practiced circumcision. In all the groups, the initiates were taught the community values. The economic organization The nilotes were nomadic pastoralists who kept Livestock like sheep, cattle and goats for milk, meat and blood. They traded among themselves and also with their neighbours. The kalenjin traded with the Maasai and with the Luo and neighbouring Bantu communities like the Abaluhyia. They sold animal products and red ochre in exchange for grains from the Bantu. They practiced iron-smelting, making implements such as arrow heads and spearheads. This skilled was borrowed from the Bantu. The Maasai also practiced mining e.g. mined iron, salt and red ochre which they used for decoration and as a commodity for trade. There existed variation in the economic activities within a single community like the Maasai. Some sections of the Maasai e.g. the Kwavi practiced crop growing i.e. growing grains and vegetables. The Purko were purely pastoralists They practiced craft e.g. made pots, weaved baskets and leather belts. Raiding other communities for cattle was also a common economic practice. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 62 The Luo who lived near Lake Victoria practiced fishing. The Turkana also engaged in fishing on Lake Turkana. Political organization The Nilotic communities had a decentralized system of administration with all the communities organized on clan basis. There existed councils of elders that administered and ensured maintenance of law and order, settled disputes between clans and other communities. The nilotes had a warlike tradition. Each community had Warriors who defended the community and raided other communities. The Luo reffered to the warriors as Thuondi. The Maasai called them Moran. The age-set system determined political leadership since all those initiated together formed one age-set for life. The institution of religion influenced most of the political affairs of the Nilotic speakers. For example, the Orkoiyot among the Nandi and the Oloibon among the Maasai were primarily religious leaders who wielded political authority in the19th century. The Nandi By 1900 AD, the Nandi had already established their social, economic and political institutions. Social organization The family was the basic social unit. Several related families grouped together to form clans among Nandi.


The Nandi By 1900 AD, the Nandi had already established their social, economic and political institutions. Social organization The family was the basic social unit. Several related families grouped together to form clans among Nandi. The family institution was very important in the community. It played an important role in the Kokwet council of elders and in the clan activities. The age-set system was an important social institution among the Nandi. Nandi boys and girls were initiated at puberty through circumcision. Circumcision marked entry into adulthood. The initiates were taught the deepest community values during the period. Age sets were formed by those who were initiated at the same time irrespective of the clans they belonged to. In total, there were eight age-sets among the Nandi namely Sawe, Maina, Chuma, Korongoro, Kipkoimet, Kaplelach, Kimnyinge and Nyongi. The Nandi boys became junior warriors after circumcision. They only promoted to senior warriors after the Saket apeito ceremony slaughter of bullock that was done after every fifteen years. Marriage within the same clan was prohibited among the Nandi. This was meant to create unity by encouraging intermarriages between different clans. They believed in one supernatural being whom they referred to him as Asis, who was believed to be the protector of the community. The Nandi believed in the existence of ancestral spirits, to whom sacrifices and libations were made to ensure they remained happy. The community also had important religious leaders whose work was to lead the For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 63 community during religious functions and rituals, diviners and rain makers. The institution of Orkoiyot among the Nandi was borrowed from that of Oloibon among the Maasai. Religious functions did the Orkoiyot of the Nandi. He Mediated between God and the people acting as a priest. He presided over Offering of sacrifices to God on behalf of the people. He advised and blessed the warriors before they went to war. Blessing people before they undertook special activities like planting and harvesting. He foretold what was going to happen in the future. E.g. success or misfortune in the community.


He foretold what was going to happen in the future. E.g. success or misfortune in the community. Economic organization The Nandi were pastoralists who kept Livestock like sheep, cattle and goats for milk, meat, manure and blood. Cattle were a symbol of status among the Nandi and also a form of dowry settlement. The Nandi cultivated crops such as Millet and sorghum due the fertile soils and favourable climate in areas like Aldai. They also practiced hunting and gathering to supplement their food production. The Nandi raided other communities for cattle. They acquired large herds of cattle through raiding neighbouring communities such as the Maasai. Abaluhyia and Luo. They traded among themselves and also with their neighbours. The Nandi traded with the Maasai and with the Luo and neighbouring Bantu communities like the Abaluhyia. They sold animal products and red ochre in exchange for grains from the Bantu. The Nandi however were self sufficient in food. They practiced craft e.g. made pots, weaved baskets and leather belts. Political organization The family was the basic political unit. It was headed by a father who dealt with internal matters such as discipline, allocation of crops, land and cattle. In matters affecting the neighbourhood, he was assisted by the Kokwet council of elders which was made up of neighbourhood heads. Above the Kokwet was the clan organization whose council of elders tackled matters to do with grazing rights. Above the clan, there was a larger sociopolitical unit comprising different war groups located in the same geographical zone called a pororiet. This formed the highest political unit among the Nandi. The pororiet council of elders comprised representatives from different clansIts functions included negotiating for peace and declaring war .The Nandi boys became junior warriors after circumcision. They only promoted to senior warriors after the Saket apeito ceremony slaughter of bullock that was done after every fifteen years. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 64 The Maasai Social organization The Maasai were divided into two groups; the pastoral Maasai Purko and the Agricultural Maasai Kwavi or Iloikop . The Maasai were organized on clan basis with each clan associated with a particular type of cattle.


They only promoted to senior warriors after the Saket apeito ceremony slaughter of bullock that was done after every fifteen years. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 64 The Maasai Social organization The Maasai were divided into two groups; the pastoral Maasai Purko and the Agricultural Maasai Kwavi or Iloikop . The Maasai were organized on clan basis with each clan associated with a particular type of cattle. In total, the Maasai had five clans spread over large areas and not necessarily staying together. Maasai boys and girls were initiated at puberty through circumcision. Circumcision marked entry into adulthood. The initiates were taught the deepest community values during the period. After circumcision, the boys entered an age set to which they belonged the rest of their life. The age set institution created a bond among the initiates that cut across the families and clans thus uniting the whole community. All the boys initiated together also formed a warrior class called Morans and lived in special homesteads called Manyattas away from the rest of the community. For about ten years. They were not allowed to take milk from their mother s house and were required to adhere to ritual and dietary restrictions. They believed in one supernatural being. The Maasai referred to him as Engai. Prayers and sacrifices were offered to him at the shrines. There was the existence of religious leaders whose work was to lead the communities during religious functions and rituals. They called their religious leader Oloibon. Functions of Oloibon He presided over religious ceremonies. He was consulted on all religious matters. He blessed warriors before they went to war. He advised the council of elders. He foretold the future events. The Maasai and other Nilotic groups had rain makers and diviners. There were several social ceremonies that accompanied the rites of passage like circumcision, marriage and death. The Eunoto ceremony marked the graduation of the Morans into junior elders. This ceremony is still practiced upto date. Economic organization of the Maasai The Maasai were nomadic pastoralists who kept Livestock like sheep, cattle and goats formilk, meat and blood.. They traded among themselves and also with their neighbours such as the Agikuyu, kalenjin and Taita.


This ceremony is still practiced upto date. Economic organization of the Maasai The Maasai were nomadic pastoralists who kept Livestock like sheep, cattle and goats formilk, meat and blood.. They traded among themselves and also with their neighbours such as the Agikuyu, kalenjin and Taita. They sold animal products and red ochre in exchange for grains from the Agikuyu. They practiced iron-smelting, making implements such as arrow heads and spearheads.. For free KCSE Notes, Exams, and Past Papers Visit https: Teacher.co.ke 65 They also practiced mining e.g. mined iron, salt and red ochre which They also practiced mining e.g. mined iron, salt and red ochre which they used for decoration and as a commodity for trade. Some sections of the Maasai e.g. the Kwavi practiced crop growing i.e. growing grains and vegetables. They practiced craft e.g. made pots, weaved baskets and leather belts. Raiding other communities for cattle. Political organization of the Maasai The largest political unit amongst Maasai was the tribal section, which was a geographically distinct entity which operated as a nation, especially during ceremonies. Affairs involving inter-clan cooperation were dealt within ad hoc meetings comprising age set spokesmen Before a Maasai young man became an adult, he underwent the following four stages. Boyhood ilaiyak The youths at this stage looked after family and clan livestock until they reached circumcision stage at about 15 years. Warrior hood Ilmuran The stage was joined by young men circumcised together and comprised of ages between 18 and 25 years. They defended the community and conducted raids to boost the clan and tribal flocks. They had a military leader known as Olaiguani. The stayed in isolation in manyattas undergoing military training in order to graduate into senior warriors. After that they were permitted to marry. Junior elders This was the political authority that evaluated the day to day issues of the community. It comprised heads of households,, aim responsibility was to maintain peace and instruct warriors on how to handle issues in the community. They were permitted to own livestock. The senior elders They comprise the senior most age-set. Membership was determined by age and experience.