Year 7 Geography: Kenya – People, Landscapes, and Inequalities

Introduction to Kenya

Kenya is a country located in East Africa. It is known for its diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultures. In this lesson, we will explore the people who live in Kenya, the different types of landscapes found there, and the inequalities that exist within the country.

The People of Kenya

Kenya is home to over 50 different ethnic groups. Each group has its own language, culture, and traditions. Here are some key points about the people:

• Ethnic Groups: The largest ethnic groups include the Kikuyu, Luo, and Maasai. For example, the Maasai are known for their colorful clothing and unique customs related to cattle.
• Languages: The official languages are English and Swahili. Many people also speak their ethnic languages.
• Religion: People in Kenya practice various religions, including Christianity, Islam, and traditional African beliefs.

Example

Imagine you have friends from different backgrounds. Just like them, people in Kenya have their own unique cultures and ways of living.

Landscapes of Kenya

Kenya has a variety of landscapes that make it a beautiful country. Here are some key features:

• Mountains: Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in the country. It is an important site for many Kenyans and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Savannah: Much of Kenya is covered by savannah, which is home to many animals like lions, elephants, and zebras.
• Rivers and Lakes: The Great Rift Valley contains many lakes, including Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru, which are important for wildlife and tourism.

Example

Think of the different environments you see in movies. In Kenya, you might see a tall mountain, an open savannah with wild animals, or a beautiful lake.

Inequalities in Kenya

Despite its beauty, Kenya faces some inequalities that affect its people. Here are some important points:

• Wealth Distribution: Some people in Kenya are very wealthy, while many others live in poverty. For example, cities like Nairobi have wealthy areas as well as slums where living conditions can be very poor.
• Access to Education: Not all children in Kenya can go to school. In some rural areas, schools may be far away or lack resources.
• Healthcare: Access to healthcare is not equal. People in urban areas often have better healthcare than those in rural areas.

Example

Imagine playing a game where some players have all the best resources, while others have very few. This is similar to how wealth and opportunities are spread in Kenya.

Tips and Tricks for Understanding

1. Visuals: Look at maps and pictures of Kenya to see its landscapes and people.
2. Compare: Think about how Kenya is similar or different from your own country.
3. Discuss: Talk about what you learn with friends or family to help remember the information.

Questions About Kenya

Easy Level Questions

1. What continent is Kenya located on?
2. Name one major mountain in Kenya.
3. What are the official languages of Kenya?
4. What is the capital city of Kenya?
5. Name one ethnic group in Kenya.
6. What type of animals live in the savannah?
7. Is Swahili an official language of Kenya? (Yes/No)
8. What is Mount Kenya known for?
9. What kind of landscape is the Great Rift Valley?
10. Do all children in Kenya go to school? (Yes/No)
11. What is a common religion in Kenya?
12. Name one lake found in Kenya.
13. What type of clothing are the Maasai known for?
14. Is Kenya a wealthy country? (Yes/No)
15. What is a slum?
16. How many ethnic groups are there in Kenya?
17. What is the primary language spoken in Nairobi?
18. Do people in rural areas have better healthcare than in cities? (Yes/No)
19. Name one city in Kenya.
20. What is the significance of wildlife in Kenya?

Medium Level Questions

1. How does the wealth distribution in Kenya affect its people?
2. What role does tourism play in Kenya’s economy?
3. Can you name two rivers that flow through Kenya?
4. Why is education important for children in Kenya?
5. How do the Maasai traditionally live?
6. What challenges do rural schools in Kenya face?
7. How does urbanisation affect people in Kenya?
8. Why is biodiversity important in Kenya?
9. What is a common challenge for families living in slums?
10. How do different ethnic groups contribute to Kenyan culture?
11. Why might some people prefer to live in cities rather than rural areas in Kenya?
12. Can you name a famous national park in Kenya?
13. How do climate and geography influence the livelihoods of Kenyans?
14. What is one way the Kenyan government is trying to reduce inequalities?
15. How do local customs impact daily life in Kenya?
16. What are some of the main exports of Kenya?
17. How do people in Kenya celebrate their festivals?
18. What impact does poaching have on wildlife in Kenya?
19. How does access to clean water vary across Kenya?
20. What is the significance of Lake Nakuru?

Hard Level Questions

1. Discuss the impact of colonial history on the current inequalities in Kenya.
2. How has urbanisation changed the traditional lifestyles of Kenyans?
3. Explain the significance of the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
4. What are the effects of climate change on Kenya’s landscapes and people?
5. How do cultural practices influence gender roles in Kenya?
6. Compare the living conditions of urban and rural Kenyans.
7. What initiatives are in place to improve education in Kenya?
8. How does the Kenyan government address health crises such as malaria?
9. What are the environmental challenges facing Kenya today?
10. Discuss the role of women in Kenyan society.
11. How do traditional ceremonies vary among different ethnic groups?
12. What is the role of NGOs in reducing inequalities in Kenya?
13. How do trade relationships affect Kenya’s economy?
14. Explain the concept of “land ownership” and its impact on inequality in Kenya.
15. What are the main causes of poverty in Kenya?
16. How does technology impact education in Kenya?
17. Discuss the importance of wildlife conservation in Kenya.
18. How does the media portray the issues of inequality in Kenya?
19. What are the social consequences of living in informal settlements in Kenya?
20. Analyze the impact of tourism on local communities in Kenya.

Answers

Easy Level Answers

1. Africa
2. Mount Kenya
3. English and Swahili
4. Nairobi
5. Kikuyu, Luo, Maasai, etc.
6. Lions, elephants, zebras
7. Yes
8. It is the highest mountain.
9. It has lakes and wildlife.
10. No
11. Christianity, Islam
12. Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru
13. Colorful clothing
14. No
15. A poor area in a city
16. Over 50
17. English and Swahili
18. No
19. Nairobi
20. It attracts tourists and helps the economy.

Medium Level Answers

1. Wealth distribution leads to different living conditions and opportunities.
2. Tourism brings money and creates jobs.
3. Tana River, Athi River
4. It helps them gain knowledge and skills for the future.
5. They are pastoralists who depend on cattle.
6. Lack of resources and far distances.
7. It creates overcrowding and slums.
8. It supports ecosystems and attracts tourists.
9. Poor sanitation and lack of facilities.
10. They enrich the culture with traditions and arts.
11. For jobs and better services.
12. Maasai Mara National Reserve
13. It affects farming and water availability.
14. By providing scholarships and resources.
15. They dictate roles in family and work.
16. Tea, coffee, flowers
17. With music, dance, and food.
18. It threatens species and ecosystems.
19. Some have clean water; others do not.
20. It is known for flamingos and biodiversity.

Hard Level Answers

1. Colonialism created wealth gaps and land issues.
2. It has led to more people living in cities and changing lifestyles.
3. It is famous for its wildlife and migration.
4. It affects agriculture and water supply.
5. They can be seen as caretakers or workers.
6. Urban areas often have better services than rural areas.
7. Programs for scholarships and school supplies.
8. By providing education and treatment.
9. Deforestation, poaching, pollution.
10. They often hold important roles in the community.
11. They reflect local beliefs and heritage.
12. They provide support and resources for communities.
13. It helps Kenya’s economy grow.
14. Land ownership affects access to resources.
15. Lack of education, jobs, and resources.
16. It allows for online learning and access to information.
17. It preserves habitats and promotes tourism.
18. It highlights the struggles and successes of Kenyans.
19. Poor health, crime, and lack of opportunity.
20. It can provide jobs but may disrupt local culture.

This structured lesson and question set should help you understand the wonderful yet complex country of Kenya!