Resources: A Goat for a Vote

The elections in 2013 left many Kenyans feeling relieved. Although not free of suspicions of fraud, the elections proceeded in relative calm compared to the large-scale outbreaks of violence four years previously.

At Majaoni Secondary School a next generation of Kenyan voters learn about democracy. It is the annual school elections, and three students compete for the prestigious position of school president. Magdalene, who has to prove herself in an environment dominated by boys, aims to unite her fellow female students in a fight for equal rights. Harry, who lives in a poor area of town, hopes that becoming school president can help him to take care of his family in the future. And the charming Said, known by his friends as the drill sergeant of the scouts club; he is a fast learner in the game of Kenyan politics.

It is the endless enthusiasm and motivation of these three candidates that predicts a fierce election battle.

Lesson plans

Video Clips

Clip: 10. Unaona utashinda?
Do you think you will win?
Clip: 11. Ndani ya studio
Said gets creative for his campaign.
Clip: 12. Wasichana wanaweza
The girls rally together to bring their ideas to life for the school.
Clip: 13. Siku ya kupiga kura
The big day has arrived for our three candidates.

Clip: 14. Mbuzi kwa kila kura
Students overwhelm Harry as he hands out meat.
Clip: 15. Tufwate haki
The Principle addresses the school and gives context to the election process.
Clip: 1. Kutoa Habari
Observe the way Said and Magdalene's families respond to their new ideas.
Clip: 2. Kwanini unataka kuwa raisi?
Magdalene answers her grandmother's questions about the election.

Clip: 3. Uzoefu wa kazi mika ngapi
Girls at Majaoni listen to Magdalene's vision for the future, and listen to the experiences of those who tried previously.
Clip: 4. Vizingiti vya kinyumbani
Magdalene hears more about the challenges faced by her household.
Clip: 5. Sitaki kutoa hongo
Weighing up the realities and morals around bribing.
Clip: 6. Maoni ya mwanafunzi
Different students share their opinions, mid way through the campaigns.

Clip: 7. Usaidizi wa nyumbani
Said's family learn about his vision and offer their support.
Clip: 8. Maombi na maazimio
Magdalene and Said's prayers and hopes for the imminent election.
Clip: 9. Ahidi nzuri
Said tries explaining how his offer is more than just sweets.