UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

SOCIAL WORK AND SOCIAL ADMINISTRATION

STUDENT NAME: NANCY JUAN WAIGO

REGISTRATION NUMBER: M23/ASC/BSW/019

ACCESS NUMBER: AR4757

DEPARTMENT: SOCIAL SCIENCE

PROGRAM: BSW

YEAR OF STUDY: ONE

SEMESTER: TWO

COURSE UNIT: INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL

SCIENCE

Question:
i) Electoral outcomes influence the social welfare of the state immensely.
Discuss giving relevant examples from any African countries/countries of
your choice (10
Marks)

ii) Justify the statement that “Democracy and good governance are
inseparable in Africa politics (10
Marks)

iii) Account for the failure of good governance in Africa today (5 Marks)

(Total Marks 25)

Question 1.i)

Electoral outcomes in Kenya, as in many African countries, have a significant

impact on social welfare and governance. Here are some key points and
relevant examples from Kenya:

Electoral outcomes are the results of the voting process that determine who gets
to hold political power and make public policies.

The social welfare of the state is the well-being of its citizens in terms of their
economic, social, political, and cultural rights and opportunities. Electoral
outcomes influence the social welfare of the state immensely because they affect
the quality of governance, the distribution of resources, and the representation of
diverse interests and identities.

1. Resource Allocation:
Elections determine the distribution of resources, which can either promote social
welfare or lead to inequities. For instance, in Kenya, the Constituency
Development Fund (CDF) has been used for local development projects based on
political patronage, which can lead to unequal access to essential services.

2. Corruption and Governance:

Political leadership affects the level of corruption and governance. For example,
the 2002 election in Kenya led to a change in leadership, resulting in improved
governance and anti-corruption efforts. However, subsequent elections have
witnessed corruption scandals, affecting social welfare.

3. Tribalism and Ethnic Politics:

Ethnic divisions play a significant role in Kenyan politics. Elections often exploit
these divisions, leading to violence and social instability, as seen in the post-
election violence of 2007-2008.

4. Infrastructure and Development:

Government policies and investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education
can be influenced by electoral outcomes. For example, election promises of
improved healthcare and education can lead to social welfare gains if
implemented effectively.

5. Land and Property Rights:

Land issues are central to Kenya's social welfare. Political leaders' stance on land
reform can impact land rights and security. For instance, the debate over the Mau
Forest and land redistribution affects the well-being of citizens.
6. Youth and Unemployment:
Electoral outcomes can shape policies related to youth employment and economic
opportunities. Young people's participation in elections, like the "Hustler"
movement, can influence discussions on job creation and social welfare programs.

7. Gender Equality: The representation of women in politics and electoral

outcomes can impact policies related to gender equality. Kenya's adoption of the
two-thirds gender rule is an example of how elections can influence gender-related
issues.

In summary, electoral outcomes in Kenya have a profound impact on social

welfare, affecting resource distribution, governance, ethnic dynamics,
infrastructure development, land and property rights, youth opportunities, gender
equality, and access to justice. The country's political landscape continues to
evolve, making each election a crucial determinant of Kenya's social well-being.

Question (ii)

The statement that "Democracy and good governance are inseparable in African
politics" holds true for several compelling reasons. Democracy and good
governance are interdependent and mutually reinforcing, especially in the
context of African politics.

Democracy: Democracy is a system of government in which power is vested in the

people and exercised by them directly or through freely elected
representatives. The term is derived from the Greek ‘demokratia,’ which was
coined in the 5th century BCE to denote the political systems of some Greek city-
states, notably Athens.

Good governance: Good governance is the process of making and implementing

decisions that are effective, efficient, accountable, transparent, inclusive, and
responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people. Good governance is
essential for achieving sustainable development, peace, and stability.

Africa politics: Africa politics is the study of how politics is practised on the African
continent, which comprises 54 countries and over a billion people. Africa politics
covers various topics such as colonialism, nationalism, democracy,
authoritarianism, ethnicity, conflict, development, and international relations.
Here's a justification for this statement:
1. Accountability and Transparency: Democracy fosters accountability and
transparency in governance. In a democratic system, leaders are elected by the
people, and they are accountable for their actions. This, in turn, promotes good
governance by making leaders answerable for their decisions and actions. When
leaders are accountable, they are more likely to act in the best interests of the
nation, reducing corruption and mismanagement.

2. Rule of Law: Democracy emphasizes the rule of law and the protection of
individual rights. Good governance is built on the principles of upholding the rule
of law, ensuring the protection of human rights, and maintaining a just legal
system. A democratic framework provides the mechanisms for establishing and
preserving these principles.

3. Participation and Representation: Democracy encourages citizen participation

in the political process through elections, which ensures that the government
represents the will of the people. Inclusive and representative governance is a
fundamental aspect of good governance, as it prevents exclusion and
discrimination and ensures that various voices and interests are considered.

4. Accountability Institutions: Democracy establishes institutions such as

independent judiciaries, free media, and civil society organizations. These
institutions play a crucial role in holding the government accountable, exposing
corruption, and advocating for transparency and good governance. Without
democracy, these checks and balances are often weakened or nonexistent.

5. Peace and Stability: Good governance, characterized by fair and just policies,
contributes to social stability and peace. Democratic systems are more likely to
embrace peaceful resolutions to conflicts and address grievances through
negotiation and dialogue. In contrast, non-democratic regimes may resort to
authoritarian tactics, which can lead to unrest and instability.

6. Economic Development: Democracy provides a framework for economic growth

and development. Stable and democratic governance promotes an environment
conducive to investment, entrepreneurship, and economic progress. In contrast,
autocratic governments may prioritize the interests of a few elites, hindering
economic development.

7. Human Development: Good governance includes access to education,

healthcare, and other social services. Democracy often leads to policies that
prioritize human development, as leaders are accountable to their constituents.
This leads to better access to essential services and an improved standard of living
for citizens.
8. Reducing Corruption: Democracy is an effective tool for reducing corruption.
Elected leaders are more responsive to public demands for transparency and
accountability, making it difficult for corrupt practices to flourish. In contrast,
autocratic regimes often allow corruption to persist unchecked.

9. Innovation and Adaptation: Democracies are generally more adaptable to

changing circumstances and innovative in addressing complex challenges. Good
governance requires flexibility in policy-making, and democratic systems can
respond more effectively to evolving societal needs.

In conclusion, democracy and good governance are interconnected in African

politics because democracy provides the framework and values that underpin good
governance. Together, they promote accountability, the rule of law, transparency,
and citizen participation, leading to better outcomes in terms of development,
peace, and well-being for the people of African nations. These principles are
crucial for the long-term stability and progress of the continent.
Question (iii)

The failure of good governance in Africa today is a complex issue with multiple
contributing factors. While there has been progress in some African nations,
many continue to face challenges in achieving good governance. Here are some
key factors that account for this failure:

Good governance is the process of making and implementing decisions that are
effective, efficient, accountable, transparent, inclusive, and responsive to the
needs and aspirations of the people. Good governance is essential for achieving
sustainable development, peace, and stability in Africa. However, many African
countries are failing to progress in good governance, as shown by the Mo Ibrahim
Index of African Governance (IIAG), which measures the performance of 54 African
countries across four dimensions: security and rule of law, participation and human
rights, sustainable economic opportunity, and human development1.
There are many factors that account for the failure of good governance in Africa
today, but some of the most prominent ones are:

1. Corruption: Corruption is pervasive in many African countries, undermining

good governance. Corruption erodes trust in government, misallocates resources,
and hampers the delivery of public services. Example: The Transparency
International Corruption Perceptions Index consistently ranks several African
countries among the most corrupt in the world.

2. Weak Institutions: Many African countries suffer from weak and ineffective
government institutions. This leads to a lack of capacity to implement policies,
enforce the rule of law, and ensure accountability. Example: Weak judiciary and
law enforcement agencies contribute to impunity for corrupt officials.

3. Ethnic and Political Divisions: Ethnic and political divisions often create
challenges for national unity and good governance. Ethnic conflicts and partisan
politics can hinder effective governance. Example: Ethnic tensions have
contributed to violence and instability in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South
Sudan.

4. Authoritarianism: Several African countries are governed by authoritarian

regimes that stifle political opposition, limit civil liberties, and centralize power.
Such regimes are often resistant to transparency and accountability. Example: The
long-term rule of leaders like Paul Biya in Cameroon or Yoweri Museveni in Uganda
has been associated with limitations on democracy and good governance.
5. Economic Challenges: Economic issues, including high levels of poverty and
income inequality, can impede good governance. Resource scarcity, economic
mismanagement, and inadequate public financial management can lead to
corruption and instability. Example: The economic crises in Zimbabwe and the
challenges faced by countries with significant natural resource wealth like Nigeria
demonstrate how economic factors can affect governance.

6. Lack of Civic Engagement: In some African countries, there is a limited culture

of civic engagement and participation, which weakens the ability of citizens to
hold their governments accountable. Example: Voter apathy and lack of civil
society activism can hinder democratic processes and transparency.

7. External Interference: Historical and contemporary external influences,

including colonial legacies and foreign interventions, have had lasting effects on
governance in Africa. Example: The legacy of colonial boundaries and interference
in post-independence conflicts have contributed to governance challenges.

8. Poor Educational Systems: Inadequate educational systems can limit the

development of an informed and engaged citizenry, making it harder to build a
culture of accountability and transparency. Example: Low literacy rates and
limited access to quality education in some African countries hinder civic
awareness.

9. Resource Mismanagement: Mismanagement of natural resources can result in

economic and political instability, as competition for resource wealth can lead to
corruption and conflicts. Example: Countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo
have faced resource-related conflicts and governance challenges.

Addressing the failure of good governance in Africa is a complex, long-term

endeavor that involves addressing these multifaceted challenges, promoting
accountability, and strengthening institutions. International cooperation, civil
society engagement, and the commitment of African leaders and citizens are
crucial in achieving better governance outcomes across the continent.
Reference
Mwenda, A. M., & Keng, M. A. (2019). Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and
Corruption in Kenya. African Journal of Governance and Development, 8(1), 25-46.

Transparency International. (Year). Corruption Perceptions Index. Retrieved from

Branch, D. (2008). Kenya: Between Hope and Despair, 1963-2011. Yale University
Press.

World Bank. (Year). Kenya Economic Update: Investing in People for Diverse
Opportunities. Retrieved from

Odhiambo, W. S. (2015). Land Reforms and Their Impact on Livelihoods: A Case of

Land Reform Programs in Kenya. Journal of African Studies and Development, 7(1),
6-16.

Chakava, E. (2020). Youth Unemployment and Political Engagement in Kenya: A

Study of the "Hustler" Movement. Journal of African Youth Studies, 4(2), 45-62.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (Year). Gender Equality in Kenya:

Progress and Challenges. Retrieved from

Republic of Kenya. (Year). Report on the State of the Judiciary and Administration
of Justice in Kenya. Retrieved from