Jce Social Notes 1&2

JCE SOCIAL
STUDIES
FORMS 1 & 2
J.H. Holly
Page 1 of 87
TABLE OF CONTENTS
UNIT 1 FAMILY ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2

UNIT 2 HUMAN RIGHTS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------4
UNIT 3 CITIZENSHIP ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8
UNIT 4 CIVIL SOCIETY ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------10
UNIT 5 MEANING AND TYPES OF EMPLOYMENT ----------------------------------------------11
UNIT 6 MALAWI‟S LABOUR LAWS ------------------------------------------------------------------14
UNIT 7 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ------------------------------------------------------------16
UNIT 8 POPULATION AND RESOURCES IN THE ENVIRONMENT --------------------------17
UNIT 9 MALAWIAN CULTURE ------------------------------------------------------------------------18
UNIT 10 VARIOUS CULTURES IN AFRICA -----------------------------------------------------------21
UNIT 11 GENDER BIAS IN MALAWI -------------------------------------------------------------------24
UNIT 12 NATIONAL IDENTITY --------------------------------------------------------------------------27
UNIT 13 CIVIC RIGTHS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF CITIZENS -------------------29
UNIT 14 PEACEFUL CO – EXISTENCE ----------------------------------------------------------------30
UNIT 15 CONFLICT RESOLUTION ---------------------------------------------------------------------34
UNIT 16 PERSONAL FINANCE MANAGEMENT ----------------------------------------------------35
UNIT 17 INVESTMENT ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------38
UNIT 18 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT -----------------------------------------------------------------40
UNIT 19 MORAL AND ETHICAL CODE OF CONDUCT -------------------------------------------45
UNIT 20 ADOLESCENCE AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT ----------------------------------------47
UNIT 21 GOOD HEALTH AND GROOMING HABITS ----------------------------------------------50
UNIT 22 SOCIAL JUSTICE ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------52
UNIT 23 JUDICIAL SYSTEMS IN MALAWI -----------------------------------------------------------53
UNIT 24 LAW AND ORDER -------------------------------------------------------------------------------56
UNIT 25 SOCIAL SKILLS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------57
UNIT 26 CORRUPTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------59
UNIT 27 SOCIAL SERVICES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------61
UNIT 28 GOVERNMENT -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------64
UNIT 29 PEOPLE AND ENVIRONMENT ---------------------------------------------------------------68
UNIT 30 GOVERNMENT POLICY ON THE ENVIRONMENT -------------------------------------72
UNIT 31 INTERDEPENDENCE AMONG NATIONS -------------------------------------------------75
UNIT 32 TAXATION ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------80
REFERENCES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------85
jekapuholly@gmail.com, (0994798236/0888330414)
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UNIT 1
FAMILY
Success criteria
By the end of this unit, you must be able to:
1. Identify different types of families
2. Describe composition of different types of families
3. Compare composition of different types of families and family size
4. Relate sex preferences of children to family size
5. Explain how culture influences family size
6. Explain gender roles and responsibilities in the families
7. Describe changes that have taken place in the nature of the family
8. Explain factors contributing to the changes that have taken place in the nature of the family
9. Explain advantages and disadvantages of large and small families
Family refers to a group of people who are not their biological parents, they become
related by blood, marriage or adoption. Family angry.
forms a basic unit of a society.
There are different types of family namely: Factors that influence family size
a. Nuclear family a. Culture
It consists of husband and wife with or Culture influences large family size in
without their children either born to them or Malawi because
adopted.  Many children are regarded as wealth
b. Extended family  Many children are regarded a source of
It is composed of members of nuclear family cheap labour
and their relatives, such as uncles, aunts,  Having many children is a symbol of
cousins, nephews, nieces and grandparents. status in many men
c. Single – parent family  Children are supposed to look after
It includes one parent mother or father with their parents at their old age
children. Reasons for a single – parent b. Sex preference
family are: This is when families continue bearing
 Death of one parent children in order to reach the required
 Divorce number of either male or female children.
 Separation Most ethnic groups in Malawi prefer boys
 Having children out of wedlock. more than girls.
d. Step or blended family c. Other factors for large family size
It is a result of divorce and remarriage.  High infant mortality rate.
A divorced partner takes children from  Premarital pregnancies
previous marriage into the new family where  The practice of divorce and remarriage
they live with step mother and step sisters or  Lack of family planning
brothers.
e. Adoptive or hybrid family Factors for small family size
It is a family that adopts children, more  Low fertility rate and family planning.
especially orphans or abandoned children.  Prolonged education
Some parents try to hide the identity of their  Introduction of population and family
children. When they discover that they are education
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 Urbanization and high cost of living  Washing clothes

 Modernization  Nursing children
 Fetching firewood
 Sweeping and mopping
Large family size b. Fathers and sons

a. Advantages  Constructing buildings
 Parents are assured that some of their  Looking after animals
children will reach adulthood.  Bread winning
 Parents are assured of getting assistance  Caring for the whole family
from their children at their old age.  Chopping firewood.
 Work is completed in time.
b. Disadvantages Changes in the modern families
 It leads to rapid population growth Modern families are quite different from those
which results in environmental of the traditional or ancient people because of
degradation. copying of foreign cultures, more especially the
 Children are given less care, attention Western Life style. Some of the changes
and love. include:
 Inadequate social services as parents  There are more nuclear families.
cannot afford, e.g. paying school fees.  More late marriages as girls stay longer in
 There are conflicts in the family as school.
children struggle for few resources.  More single – parent families
 More child – headed families
Small family  More dual – career families (where both
a. Advantages wife and husband work).
 It is easy for parents to provide for their  Upbringing of children by parents only not
families entire community.
 Parents can easily listen to the needs of
their children Factors contributing to the changes that have
 There is more parental care, support and taken place in the families
attention to the children i. Intermarriages
 There is peace in the family as children This is the marriage between people of
do not compete for the resources different cultural background, e.g. Chewa
b. Disadvantages and Lomwe. Each of the marriage partners
 Parents are less assured that their neglects his/her culture for the other.
children will reach adulthood ii. Education
 Parents are less assured of getting  Staying longer at school delays
assistance from their children at their marriage which ends up having small
old age families.
 It leads to declining population  Schools encourage the importance of
 Members of small families tend to small families
neglect their relatives. iii. Religion
Foreign religions (e.g. Christianity and
Gender roles and responsibilities in the Islam) in Malawi have changed the way of
family life to many followers.
a. Mothers and girls iv. Colonization or westernization
 Cooking food
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This is the influence of western countries, As people move to some distant places,
such as American and European countries they interact with other people of different
brought foreign ideas, beliefs and values to cultures. As a result, their culture may
Malawi. E.g. youths are learning in schools change.
instead of traditional institutions in the vi. Trade
forests. As people exchange goods and services,
v. Migration they also exchange their ideas, values and
beliefs which in turn influence their culture.
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UNIT 2
HUMAN RIGHTS
Success criteria
1. Trace history of human rights
2. Outline factors that led to the establishment of Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
3. Identify fundamental principles on which human rights are based
4. Explain types of human rights
5. Distinguish between limited and unlimited human rights
6. Recognize responsibilities attached to each right
7. Describe how human rights are violated in everyday situations
8. Explain importance of observing human rights.
9. Identify human rights as granted in the constitution of the Republic of Malawi.
10. Explain ways of applying human rights in democracy.
11. Describe situations in which human rights are violated.
12. Explain the roles of citizens and political parties in eradicating human rights violations.
13. Identify rights and responsibilities of citizens.
Human rights and freedoms are the generally During the World War II prisoners were
accepted principles of fairness and justice. put in prisons under terrible and inhuman
They are also defined as universal moral rights conditions without food, water and they
that belong equally to all people simply because were overcrowded.
they are human beings.
c. Slave trade
History of human rights This is the buying, selling and owning of
Recognition of human rights started with the people.
establishment of Universal Declaration of d. Discrimination
Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948 after the Discrimination was based on race, ethnicity
terrible crimes which were committed before religion and political affiliations.
and during the World War II (1939 – 1945). e. Abuse of children
UDHR is a declaration signed by 14 nations There was exploitation of children by being
representing the United Nations with a sole aim overworked in industries and mines. Some
of protecting and promoting universal human were recruited as soldiers.
rights.
Fundamental principles on which human
Factors for the establishment of UDHR rights are based
a. Genocide or holocaust  They are acquired at birth. You cannot get
Genocide is the planned killing of a large the rights from anyone else.
number of people at once for nothing wrong  They are universal
they have done. For example, during the  They are interdependent
World War II in 1939 – 1945 6 million  They are inalienable (no one can take away
Jews were killed by the Nazis Party which someone`s rights
was led by Adolf Hitler.  They are indivisible
b. Prisoner s of war (POW)
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Types of human rights

a. Civil and Political Rights (First Fundamental or Basic Human Rights and
Generation Rights or Liberty Oriented Freedoms
Rights) These are rights and freedoms which all people
i. Civil Rights and government should respect, uphold and
 Right to life protect, such as:
 Right to equality  Right to life
 Right to practice one`s religion  Respect for human dignity
 Freedom to act and choose what to  Right to equality (all people are treated
do. equal before the law)
ii. Political Rights  Right to liberty. Liberty is right to move
 Right to vote freely.
 Right to have access to information  Freedom of thought, conscience and belief
 Freedom of association  Rights to equal access to justice and the
court
b. Economic , Social, Cultural Rights  Freedom of expression
(Second Generation Rights)  Freedom of press
i. Economic rights  Right to culture and language
 right to freely engage in  Right to privacy. No one can search persons
economic activity house, read the mail, listen to telephone calls
 Right to fair and safe work or take someone`s property without being
 Rights to fair wages and equal authorized by the owner or the court.
remuneration for work of equal
value Rights of Special Groups
ii. Social rights Special groups are people who need special
 Right to food treatment due to their biological, social and
 Right to shelter cultural traits. They include the detainees,
 Right to education women and children.
 Right not to be forced into
marriage Rights of the Detainees
 Right to be given a name Right to:
 Right to personal privacy  Remain silent and cannot be compelled to
iii. Cultural rights make a confession
 Right to use language of your  Be told in a language he/she understands
choice  Be informed about the reason for the
 Right to participate in the cultural detention and to be charged within 48 hours.
life of your choice If the period elapses, the person must be
released.
c. Environmental and Developmental  Consult a lawyer, friends and doctors
(Rights Third Generation Rights)  Communicate with relatives
i. Environmental rights  Obtain a bail
 Right to live in a clean
environment Rights of Women
ii. Developmental rights Right to:
 Right to enjoyment of  Acquire and maintain property
economic, social, cultural and  Maintain citizenship just like men
political development  Be taken care of by their husbands
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 Enter into contract  Right to expression and be held.

 Acquire and retain citizenship and  Right to human dignity.
nationality  Right to employment.
 Acquire and retain custody, guardianship  Right to education and information.
and care of children  Right to privacy.
Rights of Children Limited and Unlimited Rights

According to the Conventions on the Rights of Limited rights are those rights and freedoms
Children, children are all persons who are under which are restricted in special circumstances
16 years of age. They have right to: such as state of emergency, crisis, natural
 Be given a name and family name disasters widespread lawlessness and attempted
 Know and be raised by their parents coup d‟état. Some rights are restricted to
 Be protected from any economic children and non – citizens.
exploitation
 Equal treatment before the law. Limited Rights for Children
 Right to vote
Rights of People Living with HIV and AIDS  Right to employment
(PLWHA)  Right to business activities
People living with HIV and AIDS have the
following rights: Limited Rights and Freedoms during the
 Right to food State of Emergency
 Right to shelter  Restricting freedom of press
 Right to health care/medication  Police arresting and search people with less
 Right to life. Life is God – given and no one evidence
has the right to destroy it.  Imposing curfews
 Right to association  Forbidding freedom of expression in public,
 Right to own property such as demonstrations, strikes and rallies
 Right to expression and be held
 Right to human dignity Unlimited Rights
 Right to employment These are rights and freedoms which cannot be
 Right to education and information restricted to all people at all cost. They include:
 Right to privacy  Right to life.
 Right to liberty.
Rights of people with disabilities  Right to equality and recognition before the
People with disabilities have rights like any law.
person on earth as long as he/she is a human  Right to freedom of conscience, belief,
being. However, such persons with disabilities thought and religion and academic freedom.
need special treatment in consideration to their  Prohibition of torture and cruel punishment.
physical or mental challenges.  Prohibition of slavery and slave – like
practices.
Some of their rights are:
 Right to food. Responsibilities Attached To Human Rights
 Right to shelter. Any human right is attached to responsibilities
 Right to health care/medication. in order to ensure that no one interferes with the
 Right to life. rights of the other.
 Right to association. Some of the responsibilities and their rights are:
 Right to own property.
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Human rights Responsibilities b. Horizontal application of human rights

Right to food Producing more food It applies where persons enforce human
Right to shelter Constructing a house rights against the government as well as
Right to health Caring for social services other people, organisations or companies.
care/medication You can sue against anyone else,
Right to life Protecting others from danger government, private bodies or organisation
Right to Attending school if you see that your rights have been
education and Sending children to school violated.
information Constructing and maintaining Elements for the success of democracy
learning blocks  Observing the rights of others
Freedom of Not to insult other people  Holding regular, free and fair elections
expression Not to spread false news  Citizens‟ participation on democracy
Right to Attending meeting  Freedom of press. This is for the journalists
association Joining clubs to collect and report news freely, without
any oppression for a well-informed nation.
This ensures people‟s right to information.
Forms of Violations of Human Rights
Human rights violation refers to the How citizens and opposition political parties
infringement of on other people`s rights. It also can monitor and eradicate violations of
refers to disregarding the rights of others. Some human rights
forms of human rights violations are: People and opposition parties should not just
 Sexual abuse, violence and sexual watch when they see that their rights are violated
harassment by government or any other institution or
 Stopping children from going to school organisation or other people in the name of their
 Denying children food positions in government. Some of ways of
 Teasing and bullying checking violations of human rights violations
 Insulting someone include:
 Ill-treating or torturing prisoners  Reporting any case of human rights
violation.
 Employers disregarding conditions of
service  Campaigning for the rights of people who
cannot speak for themselves.
 Corporal punishment
 Carrying out human rights campaigns.
 Making employees working for long hours
 Pressing for the introduction of human rights
Importance of observing human rights education in schools.
 It maintains peace, fairness and justice  Speaking openly against bad cultural
practices that violate the rights of people,
 It promotes development
more especially children, women and girls.
 It ensures tolerance
 Opposition parties should make sure that
government is respecting the provisions in
Ways of applying human rights
the Bill of Rights by holding it accountable
a. Vertical application of human rights
in parliament.
It applies where persons enforce human
rights against the government only, not  Opposition parties should prevent any
against other people, organizations or proposed bill that seems to violate the rights
companies. When the government violates of people before it passes into law
the rights of its citizens set out in the
constitution, it can be sued.
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UNIT 3
CITIZENSHIP
Success criteria
1. Identify types of citizenship
2. Describe ways of acquiring citizenship
3. Describe ways in which citizenship can be lost
4. Explain security implications of each type of citizenship
A citizen is a member of a national community. citizen and their children become

People who are citizens of particular countries Malawians.
are known as Malawians, Mozambicans, iv. By registration: any foreigner can apply
Kenyans, British, Americans and French. for Malawian citizenship to a responsible
The two main types of citizenship are: minister to be registered as a Malawian.
a. Single citizenship: it is when a person has The person is registered as a Malawian
statues of belonging to one country only. after fulfilling the following
b. Dual citizenship: it is a status of belonging requirements:
to two countries. Most Asians who are  Must have stayed in the country for a
living in Malawi have dual citizenships. minimum period of 5 years
 Must speak and understand one of
Importance of Citizenship vernacular languages and English
 It promotes unity among the people of the  Must have good criminal records
country regardless of different cultural  Must renounce citizenship any of
backgrounds and statuses. her/her previous nationality.
 It promotes patriotism. Patriotism means v. By naturalization
love and pride of one`s country. A person becomes a citizen of a country
 It helps the country`s citizens to enjoy after staying in the country for about 12
certain rights. These rights are called civic years or more. A person must have good
rights. character and complies with the laws of
 It helps citizens to enjoy certain Malawi.
privileges. E.g. subsidized fertilizer. vi. Restoration
This is bringing back one`s former
Ways of Acquiring Citizenship citizenship after staying in a foreign
i. By birth: any person who was born in country for many years.
Malawi and from the Malawian parents is
a citizen of Malawi. Ways of Losing One`s Citizenship
ii. By descent: this means tracing where a. Renunciation
your parents came from. For example, This is voluntary surrendering of one‟s
some Malawians who stayed in citizenship in preference to that of another
Zimbabwe and passed away while they country. For example, some Malawians left
were there, their orphaned children can the country voluntarily for Mozambique as
maintain Malawian citizenship by Mozambicans.
tracing. b. Deprivation
iii. By marriage: a foreign woman married This is when a person leaves his/her
to a Malawian man becomes a Malawian country by being forced by some
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circumstances. This can either be because

of political reasons or other social factors in  Effects on children
their communities. Children whose parents acquired citizenship
c. Act of Parliament through registration, marriage or
It is a law passed by parliament. The law naturalization face many problems in
can force a certain group of people to leave acquiring citizenship after the death of their
the country. parents.
 Deprivation of property
Security Implications of Different Ways of The state can take away the property of the
Acquiring Citizenship family after the death of the parents through
 Vulnerability to changes of government The Act of Parliament due to failure to meet
and policy certain conditions.
Changes of laws negatively affect those who  Lack of belongingness
become citizens by registration, marriage or Those who acquire citizenship through
naturalization. registration, marriage or naturalization do
 Lack of permanence not have homes or customary land to belong
Citizenship by registration, marriage or to.
naturalization is temporary and it can change
any time.
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UNIT 4
CIVIL SOCIETY
Success criteria
1. Identify institutions that make up a civil society.
2. Explain the functions of civil society.
3. Explain the importance of a civil society.
Meaning of civil society  Helping the vulnerable people by providing

Civil society refers to non – governmental them with basic needs.
organisations which citizens form and work at  To help in solving social problems.
the grassroot on issues that affect them.
Ways in which citizens can actively
Types of Institutions of civil society participate in civil society
a. Community based organisations  By taking part in public debate.
 Area Development Committee  By becoming active members of civil
 Village Health Committee society organizations.
 Parents – Teachers‟ Association  By donating money or materials towards
 Farmers Clubs civil society activities.
 Cooperatives  By initiating the formation of civil society
 Neighborhood Watch organisations.
 Orphanages  By taking part in community development
 Environmental Clubs projects initiated by civil society
organisations.
b. National civil society organisations  By accepting to take leadership positions in
 Public Affairs Committee civil society groups when asked to do so.
 Malawi Red Cross Society
 Consumers Association of Malawi Importance of civil society
 Malawi Congress of Trade Unions  It helps to reduce citizens‟ dependence on
 Civil servants trade union government for financing of local
 Civil Liberties Committee development projects.
 Teachers‟ Union of Malawi  It is an agent of change management
through its involvement in civic education
Functions of civil society programmers.
 Limiting and controlling the power of the  It creates awareness among citizens about
state their rights and responsibilities.
 Lobbying for good governance reforms  It is an agent of peace through its
 Civic – educating people about their rights involvement in conflict resolution.
and responsibilities  It provides a training ground for future
 Helping citizens to develop democratic leaders.
values.  It helps to promote democracy by
 Lobbying for the needs and concerns of their monitoring the activities of government and
members. checking abuse of power.
 Mediating and helping to resolve conflicts  It acts as a bridge (link) between people and
through contact and dialogue. the government or between workers and
 Monitoring the conduct of elections employees.
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UNIT 5
MEANING AND TYPES OF EMPLOYMENT
Success criteria
1. Identify types of employment.
2. Explain how different types of employment contribute to the economy of the country.
3. Explain how citizens contribute to the country‟s economic development through different types of
employment.
4. Explain the meaning of the term „conditions of service‟.
5. Identify examples of conditions of service.
6. Describe the importance of conditions of service in employment.
Meaning of employment family. It has the following

Employment is the state of having a regular characteristics:
paid occupation to which one is devoted.  People have their own work plan
People get money in order to improve their and schedule.
living standards.  There are no salaries or regular
wages. They get income after sells
Types of employment of their products.
a. Formal employment  People work upon their will and
It has the following characteristics: commitment.
 People work for an employer or a  Family members are source of
company. workforce.
 Workers receive salary or wage. E.g. there are vending, farming, fishing,
Salary is money given to workers running a grocery, tailoring, shoe
for after an agreed period of a week, making, running bicycle taxis (kabaza),
fortnight or month. Wage is money etc.
given to workers after completing a
piece of work. Forms of labour in employment
 Employees work according to set a. Skilled labour
rules and regulations. It involves well trained workers in a
 Workers are guided by the work specialized trade or skill. Workers
schedule. undergo a particular training for a period
 Workers are assured of certain work of time. It includes engineering, teaching,
benefits such as pension, leave, driving and medicine.
allowances, etc. b. Unskilled labour
E.g. they include teaching, law, Workers do not receive any form of
medicine, journalism, engineering, training to do their work, such as
commercial, etc. vending, fishing, manual workers at
ESCOM and water board, farmers etc.
b. Informal employment c. Semi – skilled labour
It also called self – employment, People start working without any training
working for one – self or for one‟s but later on, they receive on – job
training. They include carpentry, shoe
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repairing, temporary or voluntary  It improves the government‟s revenue

teaching, community voluntary health through taxes collected from employees
workers etc. and companies.
 It reduces social problems related to
Skilled workers are very important to the unemployment such as drug and
development of the country. Countries with substance abuse, prostitution, robbery,
more people having no job skills cannot poverty and beer drinking.
contribute much to the development of their
nation. The government should invest more
on the education sector in order to produce
more skilled labour force. Citizens‟ contributions to the country‟s
economic development
Importance of education and training to  As workers save money in the banks,
the youth they make more capital available to
 They gain more skills to set up their own banks and lending institutions.
businesses and employ other people.  Taxes collected from workers are source
 They provide them with skills to prepare of government revenue for the
them for future job market. development of the nation. The
 They assist them to train others in future. government is able to provide the social
 They improve their capacity and services using this money as well as
willingness to keep on learning to meet funding for the national development
new challenges effectively. projects (road projects).
 Some citizens create their own
Contributions of different forms of businesses that employ other people. This
employment to country‟s economy can assist to reduce unemployment
Economy refers to an entire system of challenges in the country. There are more
activities related to the production, jobs and investment in the country.
distribution and consumption of goods and  It promotes self – sufficiency and self –
services at all levels of social system. reliance on workers. Employees live a
better life. They do not depend on
The following are the contributions of borrowing or begging for the daily living.
employment to the country‟s economy:
 It leads to the production of goods and Work ethics
services that meet the needs and wants of Work ethics are moral principles that guide
people in the country. the conduct of workers. Work ethics include
 It produces goods which may bring the following:
foreign exchange to the country after  Dedication to duties
exporting them.  Punctuality
 It provides social services to the general  Hard working spirit
public.  Discipline
 It increases the production of goods and  Cooperation
services which promote socio – economic
development of the country. Importance of abiding by work ethics
 It provides money to workers which help  It leads to promotion
them to support their family on daily  One gets more benefits (allowances)
needs that improves their living standards  One is trusted by his/her boss or the
of the families. general public.
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Lack of work ethics of all agree on some work conditions before

 Absenteeism from work signing a contract.
 Drunkenness
 Insubordination against authorities Components of conditions of service
 Corruption  The required duties and responsibilities
 Theft of work properties of the job.
 Indiscipline  Pension scheme and circumstances of
 Late coming to work termination of contract
 Laziness  Remuneration and allowances
 Further training and promotion.
 Reasonable working hours
Effects of not abiding by work ethics  Medical scheme
 Dismissal from work  Insurance scheme
 Reduced privileges  Mode of transport
 Being arrested  Location of work and accommodation
 Demotion
Importance of studying the conditions of
Conditions of service service before accepting a job offer
Conditions of service are a list of privileges,  It helps you understand what an
responsibilities and rights that are attached to employer expects from you.
a specific job that one must agree before  It helps to decide whether to accept a job
accepting and signing for a job offer. These or not.
are important to those who are looking for  It helps to decide whether to sign a
new employment. contract or not.
There are no conditions of service in informal  You understand the expected
sectors where rights of workers can easily be remuneration and other benefits.
violated if there was no proper agreement at
the beginning of their contract. You must first
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UNIT 6
MALAWI‟S LABOUR LAWS
Success criteria
1. Identify the types of labour laws in Malawi.
2. Explain the importance of labour laws in Malawi.
Meaning of labour laws Regulations deal with individual contracts

Labour laws refer to the legislation enacted to obligations and rights of employers.
protect worker‟s rights and working
environment. Labour laws show legal rights, Individual labour laws include:
responsibilities and limitations of workers, trade  Minimum wages
union members and employers. They bring good  Weekly rests
relationship between employers, trade unions  Working hours
and employees.  Holiday and leave rules
 Discipline and dismissal procedures
Areas where labour laws cover  Equal pay for same job
a. Industrial relations  Occupation health and safety
It deals with:
 Pension and terminal benefits
 Certification of unions
 Probation against employment of young
 Working hours
people
 Labour management relations  Overtime laws
 Collective bargaining of unfair practices  Terms and conditions of service
b. Work place health and safety
This protects workers from hazardous work
Examples of labour laws in Malawi
environment and any danger related to their
 The Malawi Employment Act of 2000
work.
It establishes, reinforce and regulate
c. Employment standards
minimum work standards and working
This focuses on the following areas:
conditions such as minimum wages and
 Holidays
leave.
 Unfair dismissal
 The Malawi Government Compensation
 Minimum wages Act of 2000
 Layoff procedures It makes provisions for employers to
 Pension or severance compensate employees who were injured
during their work or diseases contacted by
Types of Malawi‟s labour laws workers in the course of their work.
Labour laws are categorized into two main  The Malawi Pension Act of 2011
groups which include the following: It describes plans of mandatory pension to
a. Individual labour laws those who have served for so long to retire
b. Collective labour laws to get their terminal benefit and live another
better life thereafter.
Individual labour laws
It is a body of regulations that deals with  The Malawi Child Care, Protection and
employment relationships between employer on Justice Act of 2010
one hand and employee on the other hand.
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It protects children from any abuses and  To ensure that all procedures and interaction
exploitation of any form at a work place. It between employer and employees are fair.
strongly discourages child labour.
 The Occupational Safety Health and Major trade unions in Malawi
Welfare Act of 1997 The Malawi Congress of Trade Unions (MCTU)
It ensures that the safety, health and welfare is an umbrella body of all trade unions in
of employees are protected by the Malawi. There are 22 trade unions, e.g. Teachers
employers. Union of Malawi (TUM) and Civil Servants
Trade Union (CSTU).
Collective labour laws
This involves the formation and joining trade Importance of collective labour laws in
unions that provide a link or fair relationship Malawi
between employers and employees.  Allows trade unions to conduct strikes
within a company if their demands are not
Trade union is an organization formed by satisfied.
workers form one organization or company for a  Aims to promote sound labour relations
common goal. through the protection and promotion of
Trade unions deal with resolving industrial freedom of association.
disputes and protecting rights of workers. They  Encouraging the effective bargaining.
also foster collective bargaining, freedom of  Promoting orderly and expeditious dispute
association and right to strike. settlement conducive to social justice and
Strike is when workers stop working in order to economic development.
force the employees to meet their demands.
Importance of labour laws in Malawi
Forms of strike are:  Promoting and maintaining peace and
i. Sit – in: workers go to a work place but do harmony between employers and
not work. employees.
ii. Stay away: workers do not report for duties,  Assisting organizations or companies to be
they stay at home. more efficient and therefore to increase
iii. Go slow: workers reduce their normal productivity.
working pace in order to reduce production.  Assisting business owners to know their
iv. Demonstration: this involves matching in obligations and responsibilities and adhere
the streets with petition containing their to fair employment practices in recruiting,
concerns to be delivered to responsible training, hiring and retaining employees.
authorities.
 Helping to increase the standard of living of
workers and reduce poverty of most
During strike, workers employ a picket. Picket
vulnerable workers.
is a tactic that involves convening outside a
 Giving structure to organisations and
work place limits to make their presence known
guidance to small business owners who do
to officials and preventing other workers
crossing a picket line to work. not follow labour laws.
 Useful in developing business principles,
Roles of trade unions work ethics and safety.
 To ensure the safety and health of  Protecting the rights of workers to act
employees at a work place. collectively, voice out their concerns about
 To create a fair working environment. wages, benefits and other working
conditions. This gives employees peace of
 Bargaining for fair and minimum work
mind.
standards or conditions.
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UNIT 7
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Success criteria
1. Mention family needs that are required in your families
2. Explain ways of acquiring family resources
3. Explain ways of conserving family resources in the family
Important needs of the family  Getting employment

a. Food  Engaging in farming (growing crops and
b. Shelter rearing animals)
Shelter provides privacy and comfort  Doing piece work, e.g. food for work
It also protects us from any danger and programmes
unpleasant weather conditions
c. Clothing Ways of conserving resources in the family
Clothes also provide protection from injuries a. Reusing
and bad weather conditions This means using resources again for a
They also help us look more attractive different purpose. For example, water after
d. Education washing hands can also be used for
It provides us with necessary knowledge, irrigating flowers.
skills and attitudes for our better living. b. Reducing
e. Health care This is using fewer amounts of resources in
Health care prevents any sort of sicknesses times of crisis. For example, in hunger
and help us live a better life. months, many poor villagers miss breakfast
f. Security, affection and love and lunch with an aim of conserving food.
These are the basic needs of the family. c. Recycling
This is treating substances that has already
Others which are not mentioned above are been used to it fit for it to be used again. For
just the luxuries. Luxuries include wrist instance, waste papers can be recycled for
watch, cars, cell phone and furniture. These next use.
are needed just for personal pleasures. d. Substituting
This is the use of alternative resources. For
Ways of acquiring family resources example, instead of using firewood for
 Running small scale business, e.g. selling cooking, you can use electricity.
„mandasi‟.
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UNIT 8
POPULATION AND RESOURCES IN THE ENVIRONMENT
Success criteria
1. Identify resources in the environment
2. Classify resources in the environment
3. Explain effects of population growth on the environment
4. Describe importance of resources on population
5. Explain responsibility of citizens towards resources
Resources are everything which can be used in c. Material resources

the environment.  They provide services like education
and health
Types of Resources  They are used for transport
a. Natural resources: They are things which d. Financial resources
were provided by nature. They include soil,  They are used for buying family needs
water, air, vegetation and animals.  They are used for paying for
b. Human resources: They include males and important services
females  They are used for buying inputs
c. Material resources: They are
infrastructures, cars, clothes, household Irresponsible practices towards the resources
utensils and furniture.  Setting bushfire
d. Financial resources: They are all forms of  Deforestation
money such as banknotes, coins and cheques
 Poor waste disposal
 Urinating in public places
Effects of high population growth on
Resources  Setting bushfire
 Famine or inadequate food supply  Vandalizing the social services
 Land degradation  Causing air pollution
 Unemployment
Responsible practices towards the resources
 Pressure on social services
 Caring for social services by maintaining
 Deforestation
and protecting them against theft and
vandalism
Importance of resources in the environment
 Afforestation
a. Natural resources
They are source of  Prevent vandalizing social service structures
 Water  Conserving the resources by proper utility
 Income and management
 Participating in community projects such as
 Medicine
constructing school blocks
 Raw materials
 Air for breathing
Government responsibility towards
b. Human resources environmental resources
They are sources of
 Making environmental protection laws.
 Labour
 Enforcing the laws
 Skills
 Providing civic education programmes
 National development
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UNIT 9
MALAWIAN CULTURE
Success criteria
1. Describe of the Malawian culture
2. Identify different tribes in Malawi
3. Locate tribes and their cultural areas in Malawi
4. Explain the importance of unity in cultural diversity
5. Explain changes in Malawian culture
6. Describe the factors that influenced the changes in the Malawian culture
Culture refers to everything that is socially the patrilineal groups trace their
learnt and shared by members of society. succession through their fathers.
Culture is also defined as a way of life of an  Matrilineal ethnic groups include the
identified group of people. Chewa, Lomwe and Yao.
 Patrilineal ethnic groups are the
Elements of Malawian culture Tumbuka, Ngoni, Sena, Ngonde,
Elements of Malawian culture are classified into Lambya and Tonga.
two main groups which are:
a. Visible elements Religion: the common religions are
Food: nsima is similar among all ethnic Christianity, Islam and African Traditional
groups in Malawi. Some ethnic groups have Religions (ATR). The followers of such
cassava and rice as their staple food. religions acquire some identity.
Dressing: type of attire and clothing. It Music and dance: each ethnic group in
gives people identity. Malawi has the traditional dances, like
Ingoma for the Ngoni, gule wamkulu for the
Housing: the shape of houses can tell the Chewa and Manganje for the Lomwe.
type of ethnic group. Round houses are
common among the Chewa and Ngoni while Etiquette: this means rules for polite
four – walled houses are common among the behaviour. E.g. receiving things with two
Yao. hands, squatting and kneeling before the
elder.
b. Invisible elements
Marriage: marriage is a legal union
Language: people are easily identified by between a man and a woman who become a
their languages. It gives people the identity husband and a wife. Marriage customs differ
to other people. among different ethnic groups in Malawi.
Social organisation Importance of Culture

 This divides ethnic groups in Malawi  It provides people with standards for
into matrilineal and patrilineal. The appropriate behaviours such as dress,
matrilineal ethnic groups trace their respect and health habits.
succession through their mothers while  It gives people identity
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 It promotes unity and cooperation which  Intermarriages among ethnic groups

allows development to take place. enhance unity.
 Most families have similar marriage
Unity in cultural diversity values such as love, respect,
Cultural diversity refers to various cultural responsibility, cooperation,
characteristics of the groups of people within a faithfulness, and fidelity.
given society. On the other hand, the specific e. Moral values
cultures of various groups in the society are Moral values are people`s accepted
called subcultures. behaviours in the society. Most societies
condemn immoral behaviours. In addition
Types of Subcultures to that, moral values encourage respect and
a. Ethnic subculture tolerance to each other.
It refers to customs, traditions, beliefs and f. Religion: religions bring together different
values of an ethnic group portrayed by type groups of people as uniting factors.
of stable food, dress, music, dance, g. Occupations: occupations bring people
language, folklore and behaviour patterns. together such hunting, fishing, teaching and
b. Religious subculture farming. Employment rules and regulations
This is in terms of availability of various encourage unity.
religions in the society.
c. Occupational subculture Importance of unity in cultural diversity
The occupations of people in the society  It promotes patriotism which is a key to
influence their behaviour patterns. For development
example, civil servants behave in line with  It promotes peace and stability in the
civil service regulations. country
 It prevents war and external interference
Elements of Culture that Enhance Unity in  It creates the country`s good image which
Cultural Diversity attracts tourists.
a. Language
There are certain words common amongst Changes that have Taken Place in the
all ethnic groups in Malawi. These points Malawian Culture
that all ethnic groups have the same  Dressing
heritage, hence enhancing unity Initially our ancestors wore animal skins
b. Music and dance which were later replaced by clothes made
Most ethnic groups in Malawi have similar from cotton, silk and other synthetic fibres.
dancing styles, and musical instruments
 Language
that produce similar rhythms. Some of the English and foreign languages are spoken
dances provide entertainment to various in Malawi due to interaction with other
groups of people. races. In addition, there are some Malawian
c. Rituals languages which borrow English words.
Almost all ethnic groups in Malawi
E.g. it is tebulo (table in English) instead of
perform different rituals of birth, marriage
gome in Chichewa.
and funerals. The rituals mark the stages in
 Moral values
life of an individual. The passing from one
Traditionally, boys were waiting for the
stage to another in one‟s life is called rites
elders to take a meal first as a way of
of passage such as „mmeto’, „likwata’,
paying respect to adults. But nowadays,
„jando’ and „nsondo’.
everyone eats his/her meals in separate
d. Marriage and family values
dishes
 Family values
Page 21 of 87
It was traditionally the responsibility of the  Intermarriages: it brings together people

uncle to bring up children. Today the of different ethnic groups together as
parents take this responsibility of bringing marriage partners.
up children.  Religion: it unites people as Christians,
 Music and dance Moslems or Buddhists.
Traditionally, musical instruments were  Colonization or westernization: people
made from locally available materials. Due copy foreign ideas, skills, language,
to the coming of foreign cultures people dressing, housing style and food.
use electrical musical instruments such as  Education: at school learners learn new
guitars and keyboards. skills and language. Learners also interact
with new people they never knew. After
their education, some of them live in towns.
 Marriage  Trade: as people travel to different areas
There were arranged marriages in for business, they interact with other people
traditional Malawi while due to the coming where they influence each other`s
of western cultures arranged marriages are behaviours.
no longer done.  Mass media: radios, TVs, newspapers,
 Housing magazines and internet provide people with
Our ancestors built round houses which new cultures which were not there before.
have been replaced by the four – walled Most youths easily copy these cultures.
houses.  Urbanization: as people live in towns,
they tend to forget their traditional values
Factors that have led to changes in Malawian for the foreign cultures. They want to live a
culture modern life.
Page 22 of 87
UNIT 10
VARIOUS CULTURES IN AFRICA
Success criteria
1. Describe the cultures of East, North, West, Central and South Africa.
2. Analyze the common characteristics of the cultures of Africa.
3. Explain the influence of African cultures on Malawian culture.
East Africa (Kenya)

 Main ethnic groups: they include Kikuyu,
Lihya, Luo, Kalenjin, Kamba, Kisii, Meru
and Masai. Swahili is the main language South Africa
which is a mixture of Bantu and Arabic).  There are countries like Mozambique,
 Religion: Christianity, Islam and African Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Swaziland,
Traditional Religion (ATR) are the main South Africa and Lesotho.
religions here. ATR is founded on the belief  There are Whites, Asians and Black
in the supernatural beings and ancestral Africans who speak different languages.
spirits.  Language: People speak different Bantu
 Dressing: people wear suits, skirts, dresses, languages such as Zulu, Xhosa, Basotho,
trousers and shirts under the influence of the Bapedi, Venda, Tswana, Tsonga, Swazi,
Europeans. Moslems wear long dresses with Sesotho and Ndebele. Coloured Africans
a cap while women cover their face. and the Whites speak Afrikaan.
 Food: staple food is prepared from maize,  Religions: there are Christianity, Islam,
millet, sorghum and rice. Other foodstuffs ATR and Hinduism. Asian immigrants are
are potatoes, cassava and groundnuts. the Hindus.
Sorghum and millet are used for brewing a
traditional beer called umqombot (Masese). West Africa (Ghana and Nigeria)
 Housing: round houses and four walled  Nigeria had the largest population in Africa
houses are common in the area. of about 150 million people in 2012.
 Food: main staple food is maize meal  The main ethnic: the main ethnic groups
served with relish (meat, beans, fish and are the Fulani, Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Ijaw,
vegetables). Kanuri, Ibibio and Tiv.
 Dressing: western style of dressing is  Languages: Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Fulani,
common (suit, blouse, trousers, pair of Ibibio, Fulfude, Kanuri and Edo. English is
shorts etc). Some women wear head gear the official language.
(duku) and wrappers (zitenje) while some  Religion: Muslims are dominant followed
men wear animal skins. by Christians and few ATR followers.
 Marriage: lobola and polygamy are  Respect and hospitality: it is a must to
practiced more especially the patrilineal respect elders and strangers. Sharing with
groups. the needy is one of the virtues.
 Social organization: there are both  Food: stable food if known as fufu which is
matrilineal and patrilineal societies prepared from pounded yams and plantains.
organized under the clan leaders and/or  Dressing: Igba is men‟s traditional dress
chiefs. while women Buba (blouse), Gele
(headgear), Kaba (single piece dress and
Page 23 of 87
Iborun or Ipele (a scarf that cross  Music: rumba music is popular in DRC
diagonally across their chest). such as Ndombolo, Soukousa and
Kwasakwasa.
 Marriage: arranged marriages are common.
Bride price is paid. Marriages between the
cousins are common in DRC.
North Africa (Egypt)  Social organization: there are both
 It is bordered by Libya, Palestine, patrilineal and matrilineal societies.
Mediterranean Sea, Israel, Red Sea and  Religion: 75% are Christians followed by
North Sudan. the Moslems and ATR believers.
 The area in inhabited the descendants of the DRC is affected by the frequent civil wars
Arabs who conquered the indigenous people which contribute to poverty amongst many
of the region. citizens.
 Ethnic groups: Berbers, Bedouins, Nubians
and Few Greeks. Common characteristics of African cultures
 Languages: they include Siwi, Domari,  Similar family systems. Extended families
Bedawi, Greek, Coptic, and Nubian (Nobiin are common in Africa which provides a
and Kenuzi – Dongola). Arabic is their network for social support.
national language.  Similar marriage customs and values.
 Religion: Moslems of Sunn sect make 90% Arranged marriages, payment of bride price
of the total population. There are few and polygamy are common in African
Christians and other small religions. cultures.
 Family structure: there are both nuclear  Common moral values: boys and girls are
and extended families. taught to respect elders in the following
 Greetings and hospitality: a handshake is ways:
recommended for people of the same sex.  Removing a hat before the elders.
 Food: they use the right hand only for eating  Squatting or kneeling when speaking
food. When you are a visitor, do not finish with elders.
all the food prepared for you.  Receiving things with two hands.
 Dressing: long dress with a cap for men  During meals, elders are the first to
while women wear a long dress and a piece wash hands followed by children.
of cloth that covers the entire face.  Children do not share the same house
with their parents for accommodation.
Central Africa (DRC)  Bantu language: most African languages
 DRC shares the boundary with African have common features or sounds. For
Republic, south Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, example, moto for fire in Chichewa and
Zambia, Angola Tanzania, and Republic of Swahili, basa for work for Sena and Shona,
Congo (Congo – Brazzaville). common prefix „ntu‟ or „tu‟ for a person.
 Languages: there are Bantu languages of For a person, it is „munthu‟ in Chichewa
Kikongo, Lingala, Tshiluba and Swahili. and Zulu, wandu in Yao, and „abanthu‟ in
French is an official language. Swahili.
 Food: Fufu or Ugali is the main staple food  Common stable foods and eating habits”
which is prepared from cassava and maize common staple foods are prepared from
meal and served with vegetables, meat, maize, millet, sorghum, bananas, yams,
edible insects (grasshoppers and cassava and sweet potatoes.
caterpillars). They eat with bare hands and from one dish.
 Similar music rhythms and dance styles.
Page 24 of 87
 Common form of hospitality. Strangers are  Belief in the Ancestral spirits and the
treated with respect by preparing them with spirit world.
best meals and accommodation.  No specific days of worshipping.
 Similar musical instruments, such as hand  No specific places of worshipping.
clapping, metals, whistles, drums and Worshipping can take place in forests.
trumpets.  Spirit mediums are regarded as their
 Similar initiation ceremonies or rites of missionaries.
passage Influence of African cultures on Malawian
 African traditional religion (ATR) is culture
common in Africa. This is belief in  Use of borrowed words from other African
indigenous religions which is characterized languages, e.g. „ndege‟ for aeroplane in
by the following features or practices: Swahili.
 Believing that some communicate with  Copying of foreign music and dance such as
spirit powers. kwaito music, kwasakwasa, soukousa and
 Unwritten religious beliefs. ndombolo
 Belief in Supreme Being as a creator of  Copying of foreign dressing style from West
all things. Africa.
Page 25 of 87
UNIT 11
GENDER BIAS IN MALAWI
Success criteria
1. Identify the practices of gender biases in the family, community and the nation.
2. Explain the consequences of gender biases in the family, community and the nation.
3. Explain how culture influences gender biases in the family, community and the nation.
4. Describe measures for eradicating gender bias in Malawi.
5. Explain the terms „gender equality‟ and „gender equity‟.
6. Compare gender roles, rights and responsibilities of family members in modern and traditional
Malawian societies.
7. Describe gender bias in Malawi.
8. Suggest ways of achieving gender equality and equity in Malawi.
Sex is a biological difference between males and  Males

females. On the other hand gender refers to the  Building houses
way a person is expected to behave in the  Looking after animals
society basing on whether one is male or female.  Propose for marriage
Gender is defined as social difference between  Earning money
males and females.  Owning land
Differences between gender and sex  Females
Gender Sex
 Preparing food
It is learnt behaviour It is acquired at birth
 Fetching firewood
 Sweeping, mopping and caring for a
It is culturally specific It is universal family
 Drawing water
It is socially It is biological
constructed Gender bias in Malawi
Can easily be Cannot be changed It refers to the situation in which one gender is
changed treated better than the other. This is due to
having different roles between males and
Sex roles and gender roles females.
Sex role refers to the behaviour that a person
carries because of being male or female Examples of gender bias in Malawi
biologically. Gender bias is done in the following areas:
For example, sex roles include i. Marriage procedures
 Males impregnate women  Women are given away to marriage
 Females give birth  Under „lobola‟, women fail to exercise
their rights.
 Breastfeeding children
 Women have no choice on the number
Gender roles are behaviours that a society of children to bear
expects from males and females.
Gender roles for traditional Malawians include: ii. Child rearing practices
 Boys are favoured more than girls
Page 26 of 87
 Boys are more respected than girls Measures of eradicating gender bias
 Boys are given more responsibilities and 1. Civic education programmes: people
attention than girls should be taught about the negative effects
 Boys grow up with power and positive of gender bias in the family and society.
image about themselves while girls 2. Legislation of the rights of women:
develop an attitude of subordination. making laws that safeguard and promote
iii. Succession and inheritance practices the rights of women.
 All the property is grabbed from the 3. Normative action: it is a deliberate action
widow by the late husband`s relatives in order to promote underprivileged sex in
 Men are allowed to marry many wives various areas.
 Girls and women are expected to obey 4. By social and economic empowerment
their husbands and allowed to marry  Sending girls to school so that they
early depend on their own in future when
 Women are regarded as weak and they are employed in various industries.
cannot own family assets.  Women should be given loans to start
small scale businesses for their own
Consequences of Gender Bias self-reliance.
 Inequalities in opportunities  Women should be allowed to have
 Unequal distribution of work control over economic resources such
between males and females as land and other household assets.
 More boys in school than girls
Gender equity and gender equality
 Ineffective development programmes
Most development programmes fail to
Gender equity
address real issues in the community
The word „equity‟ means fairness and principles
because women do not participate in
of justice. Therefore, gender equity refers to fair
decision making.
treatment between boys and girls, men and
 Sexual harassment and violence against women. For example, there must be impartiality
women in the distribution of resources and opportunities
Most women and girls are victims of
between both sexes such as education and
various forms of sexual harassment such financial opportunities, equal study time
as rape, defilement, abduction of girls, between boys and girls
insulting the modesty of a woman as well
as violence against women and girls such
Gender equality
as assault and battery.
Equality is the term which means the state of
being equal in opportunity, status and rights.
Cultural influences on gender
 Boys and men are portrayed as more Examples of gender equality
superior than girls and women  Equal opportunities in education,
 It emphasizes that the role of women and employment or business world
girls are to listen to what men say
 Equal status
 Most decisions favour men
 Respect
 Women serve the needs of their husbands
 Rights
 Social and cultural privileges are directed
 Equal shares and control of benefits for
to men
development activities
 Women are regarded as socially and
 Equal access and control of resources
biologically weak.
Page 27 of 87
Gender roles, Rights and Responsibilities in There are several attitudes about gender roles
the Traditional and Modern Malawian common in Africa including Malawi that leads
society to gender biases, such as:
 Men own land and women work on the
Responsibilities of Family Members in Rural land
Areas  Women are weak physically and are not
creative
Males Females  Only men possess reason, intellect, logic
Position of power and Giving respect to their and strong will
dominance husbands  Women should not stand and talk or preach
Courageous Bearing children before men
Work hard Washing clothes  The main aim for a girl is to marry and
Look after animals Bathing children have children
Building a house Preparing food  The main aim for a boy is to do well at
Fishing Mopping a house school and earn money
 It is good for a girl to marry early
Responsibilities of Family Members in Urban  It is good for woman to have many children
Families
Some human rights activists and non – Factors that influence gender bias
governmental organisations are advocating for  The family, work place and school
the rights of women who have been  Social and cultural practices
marginalized for so long in development  Education
activities. For this reason, women take  Religion
responsibilities that were for men; likewise men
 Proverbs
do work that was meant for women.
 Both men and women work as drivers,
Effects of gender bias
managers, sales representatives, house
 Unequal distribution of resources and
workers mechanics, cooks in hotels,
benefits
carpenters and many works that seem
 Unequal representation between males and
challenging. So women assist their husbands
as bread winners. females in decision –making positions
 Gender based violence including
Gender rights of family members psychological, social, sexual and economic
 Right to education violence
 Right to rest and leisure  Oppression and unfairness
 Right to employment  Unfair division of labour in homes,
communities and in work places
 Freedom from torture
 Unequal pay for similar jobs
 Right to own property
 Persistence of harmful cultural practices
 Freedom of expression
such as wife inheritance
 Right to associate with others
 Right to security making Ways of achieving gender equality in Malawi
 Gender empowerment
Gender Bias in Malawi
 Engage men and boys
Gender bias refers to discriminatory attitudes,
 Legislation of the rights of women
practices and policies based on socially
constructed beliefs about male and female roles.  Normative action or affirmative action
Page 28 of 87
UNIT 12
NATIONAL IDENTITY
Success criteria
1. Describe the different types of registration.
2. Explain the importance of vital registration in national development.
Vital citizenship registration refers to a record  It provides genuine information for

that a country keeps for its citizen. The identification to access some services,
information include date and place of birth, date e.g. when opening bank accounts or
and place of death, incidences of major insurance.
sicknesses, race and religion.  It makes a person to be easily identified
These are called vital citizenship registration in times of misfortunes.
because they are used for very important
activities such as voting, immigration purpose, b. Birth Registration
observation of trends of population growth and When a child is born at the hospital, it is
location of social services. recorded at the hospital register. Then, it is
forwarded to the District Commissioner
Types of vital citizenship registration who also forwards the information to the
a. National identity registration Registrar General`s office where birth
It is conducted by the Nation Registration certificate is issued. Sometimes, the District
Bureau (NRB) which registers citizens and Commissioner issues Affidavit of Birth
issues national identity cards to the citizens which is also used as a birth certificate.
of Malawi.
Information contained by birth certificate
Information contained in the national  Date and place of birth
identity  Sex
 Date and place of birth  Ethnic group
 Sex  Religion
 Ethnic group or race (languages)
 Religion Importance of birth registration
 Personal photograph  It provides vital records about the
 Finger prints citizens
 Nationality  It gives authenticity of citizenship of
individuals
Importance of national identity  It provides vital statistics for national
registration development planning
 It provides authenticity of person‟s
citizenship. c. Death Registration
 It helps to prevent illegal immigrants Death is recorded at the hospital, religious
from entering the country. institutions or police.
 It helps to identify true beneficiaries in
national programmes and during It contains information like:
provision of relief items in times of  Date and place of death
natural disasters.  Frequency of deaths
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 Causes of death Eligible voters are allowed by law to register

and vote in the elections. The process of
identifying eligible voters is called voter
registration whereby voter cards are issued
Importance of death registration to the persons who have registered.
 It is source of information on the
causes and frequency of death Importance of voter registration
 It provides data for national  It helps the electoral Commission to
development plan for an election
 It helps to make sure that only eligible
d. Marriage registration voters vote
Marriage is registered at the Magistrate  To ensure that no one votes twice
Court, Registrar General`s Office and
religious institutions where marriage f. Business Registration
certificates are issued to the new weds. It is a requirement that before anyone starts
a business; such business must register with
Importance of marriage registration the government
 It helps the government to know the
number of households in the area Importance of business registration
 It helps government to distribute  It helps government to record the type
resources to households in times of and magnitude of businesses operating
natural disasters in the country
 It helps government to plan for national  It helps to maintain records of
development businesses operating in the country
 It helps government to assess and collect
e. Voter registration taxes.
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UNIT 13
CIVIC RIGHTS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CITIZEN
Success criteria
1. Identify civic rights of a citizen
2. Identify duties of a citizen
3. Identify responsibilities of a citizen
The citizens of a country are entitled to certain fulfill the duties one may be punished or
rights and privileges by virtue of being the arrested. Examples
citizens. They are called civic rights.  Paying tax and rates
 Obeying the law
Some of these civic rights are:  Defending the nation
 Right to vote  A teacher to teach. Failing to teach is
 Right to protection punishable or leads to dismissal from
 Right to social services civil service.
 Right to economic welfare (right to do  The police to provide security
business or get employment)  Parents and guardians should bring up
 Right to participation in civic affairs their children and wards
Civic rights and the role of government Responsibilities are things that people do out
To ensure that the citizens exercise and enjoy of will and commitment. People do
their rights the government must: responsibilities for the good of the society.
 Conduct regular, free and fair elections. Failing to do so, it is not punishable by law.
 Establish the police that safeguard the civic Examples:
right and promote law and order and ensure  Attending meetings
existence of justice in the country. The  Collecting and disseminating correct
defence force protects the state from external information
attacks.  Voting in an election after attaining 18
 Malawians should be provided with passports years of age.
if they want to travel to other countries. The  Taking part in local and national debate
government should also establish diplomatic  Proper use of social services
relations with other countries in order to  Being cooperative
protect the citizens who may seek assistance  Observing moral values
when they travel there.  Taking care of one`s life and other
 Provide the much needed services to its people`s lives by going to hospital when
citizens such as clean water, health and they fall sick
education.  Being self-reliant
 Open up more job opportunities to many
Malawians so that they get employed. Importance of responsible citizenship
 It promotes unity among the people
Duties and responsibilities of citizens  It benefits everybody regardless of status
 Duties are obligations that a person is  It promotes communal ownership of
ordered either by government (law) or by resources
being in charge of something. Failing to
 It promotes peace, justice and development.
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UNIT 14
THE CONSTITUTION
Success criteria
1. Explain the meaning of the term constitution
2. Describe types of constitutions
3. Explain how constitutions are made
4. Explain factors that influence changes of constitution
5. Identify the main features and symbols of constitution of the Republic of Malawi
6. Explain the fundamental principles of the constitution of the Republic of Malawi
Constitution refers to the document that  Some rights in the Bill of Rights may
describes how the country should be governed. be in conflict with basic constitutional
In this case, constitution is described as the basic principles and cause disputes.
law of the land on which all the laws of the
country must base. b. Unwritten constitution
The rules are derived from different sources.
Types of constitution There is no single book of constitution
a. Written Constitution
It is a book that sets out all the rules and The Sources of unwritten constitution
regulations of governing the country.  Case laws
Malawi, Kenya, USA and Zambia have  Acts of Parliament
written constitution  Conventions
 Subsidiary Legislature or Senate
Advantages of written constitution  Other authoritative text books.
 It is used as reference for legal action
 It helps to interpret the affairs of Advantages of unwritten constitution
government without going astray  It is easy to change
 It helps to check the operations and  It is flexible
performance of the government
 Government departments are aware of Disadvantages of unwritten constitution
each other`s respective roles because  The government can easily go astray as it is
they can always refer to it. difficult to refer to
 It helps to formulate the rules of other  It is difficult to formulate rules for other
organisations and institutions, e.g. organisations
schools.
Common features of a constitution
Disadvantages of written constitution  It is a list of aims and goals of the nation
 It is rigid. It provides little or no  Bill of Rights
flexibility to judges and others who  Legally enforced
have to interpret it in a given situation.
 It is a supreme law
 It is not easy to amend or remove bad
 It is a list of ideas on which the constitution
laws.
is founded
 Explanation of how different branches of
government should perform their functions
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economic systems) are powerful to

Ways of making constitution influence changes in the constitution
1. By holding consultative meetings
People of different backgrounds and The main features in the constitution of the
interests such as traditional leaders, Republic of Malawi
politicians, the business community,  It is a supreme law
lawyers, differently gifted persons, women  It determines the sovereignty of the State of
and children groups as well as the aged Malawi
people are involved in the discussions in  It describes the national territory of the
to make a constitution. Republic of Malawi
 It safeguards and protects the freedoms of
Advantages the people of Malawi
 The constitution is accepted and  It is legally protected by the courts
respected by everyone in the country  It derives its authority from the people of
 The constitution is supported by the Republic of Malawi
everyone.  It describes power, limits, duties and
responsibilities, codes of conduct of the
Disadvantages president, cabinet ministers, members of
 It is time consuming parliament and all officers of various
 It is expensive to conduct such government departments.
meetings
Major changes in the Constitution of the
2. By a small group of politicians or Republic of Malawi since 1961
dictators
A dictator is a person is who rules a 1961
country by a decree. He is above the law  Had a minimum voting age of 21
of the country. The word of his/her mouth  Multiparty system of government. There
becomes a law. were four main political parties such as
Malawi Congress Party, Christian
Advantages Liberation Party, United Federal Party
 It saves time and Christian Democratic Party. MCP
 It save money won all the seats.
 It is not widely accepted by  Queen was still the head of government.
everyone.
1962 and 1963
3. From Different Sources over a Time  Nyasaland gained full internal self –
however it becomes difficult to refer to it. government with all three main branches.
Factors that influence changes in the 1964

constitution  Nyasaland became independent with a new
a. Political factors: this is due to change of name, Malawi.
political systems (e.g. from one party to  Queen was still the head of government
multiparty system)
b. Social factors: 1966
 Malawi became Republic headed by the
c. Economic Factors: economic systems
president
(free trade, capitalist and socialist
 The British Queen was no longer head of
state.
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 Dr Hastings Kamuzu Banda became the  National flag

head of state  National Anthem
 MCP became the only legal party of the  Coat of Arms
state  Public Seal
 President was given power to appoint MPs  Independence Day
1969 – 71 National Flag

 Dr Banda was declared a life president  It has three colours:
 Constituencies were increased from 50 to i. Black: stands for the people of Africa
60. ii. Red: for the blood which was shed by
 The president could appoint three people to the people who were fighting for their
govern the country in his absence freedom.
iii. Green: that stands for vegetation of
1993 – 95 Malawi
 Reintroduction of multiparty  The rising sun stands for the dawn of
 Lowering of voting age from 21 to 18 freedom in Malawi.
 Inclusion of Bill of Rights
 Restoration of the supremacy of constitution National Anthem
 Rules for holding both presidential and  It is a sort of a national hymn and a prayer
parliamentary elections for every 5 years which was composed by Mr. Lawrence
 Limit the term of office for the president to Sauka
5 year terms  It is sung during public meetings and
 Separation of powers in government international sporting activities.
 Transparency and accountability for the  It has three verses which emphasize on
president unity, freedom and hard work for the
 Respect for the rule of law. people of Malawi and respect we have for
God.
Common features of the constitution of the
Republic of Malawi Coat of Arms
 It is a Supreme Law  It is used on the government official paper.
 Bills of Rights  It has the following features:
 It describes the duties and responsibilities  A rising sun at the top that represents the
of the government officers dawn of freedom in Africa
 Legal protection: this means that judges  The shield at the bottom
make fair decisions as they work  A fish eagle and a wavy band symbolize
independently. Lake Malawi
 It describes the national territory of the  The lion and the leopard guard the crest as
Republic of Malawi a whole.
 It safeguards the rights and protects the  The land at the base represent the rugged
freedoms of the people of Malawi Mulanje Mountain
 Derives its authority from the people of  The crest has a motto, “Unity and
Malawi Freedom”
 It is legally protected
Public Seal
Symbols of National Identity  It is the official stamp of the Office of the
These are a sign of national sovereignty of the President and Cabinet
nations. They include the following:
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 It is stamped on every important official  Universal suffrage: this gives the citizens
document such passport, parliament bills rights to vote in an election.
for approval by the president  National policy: this refers to the
 It depicts the motto, “Republic of government`s commitment to important
Malawi”. issues in the country that affect people`s
lives in order to improve their living
Importance of symbols of national identity standards. National policy should address
 They promote the spirit of patriotism the issues of education, good governance,
 They promote unity among cultural economy and good governance.
diversity  Rule of law: this means constitution is a
supreme law and no one is above the law
Principles of the constitution of the Republic even the president or cabinet.
of Malawi
 Will of people: all the powers in The supremacy of the constitution
government come from the people.  Functions: constitution is the only
 Lawful authority: government officials superior source of authority. It describes
exercise their powers lawfully and roles of different government officers. It
according to their responsibility to the creates government`s hierarchy, entrusts
people of Malawi. the powers and controls all its affairs.
 Trust in the government: the authority to  Equal application: the constitution is
rule the country lasts as long as people applied equally to all citizens regardless of
have trust in the leaders. This trust is the status, position or race.
maintained through transparency and  Legal protection: this empowers the
accountability judiciary or the courts to make decisions
independently, free from any political
interference.
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UNIT 14
PEACEFUL CO – EXISTENCE
Success criteria
1. Explain the meaning of the term co – existence
2. Trace the history of peaceful co – existence
3. Identify factors which contribute to peaceful co – existence among people
4. Explain the importance of peaceful co - existence
Peaceful co – existence refers to the situation  Tolerance (it helps to understand each
where people from different backgrounds live other and accept other people`s views)
together in a particular place peacefully. People  Religion unites different people
may come from different backgrounds in terms  Presence of stable central government
of culture, education, wealth and race. that enforces law and order.
 Intermarriages: this marriage between
The history of peaceful co – existence people of different cultural backgrounds.
 People started living together in peace a This unites cultures.
long time ago when different ethnic groups  Shared historical background: countries
were migrating into the country. which were colonized by one colonial
 The earliest inhabitants in the country were master have similar value and ideologies
the Prot – Chewa also known by different that unite them.
names such as Abathwa or Akafula,  Interdependence: trade brings unity
Amwandionerapoti. They lived in the between or among the trading partners.
country during the Iron Age (1st century,  Language
AD).  Music and dance
 Moral values: these include respecting and
Situations of peaceful co – existence obeying each other as uniting factors that
Almost all Malawians regardless of their promote peaceful co – existence amongst
different backgrounds come together during people.
various occasions that unite them in peace.
 Occupations: people who work together
Some of the occasions or situations include:
live as members of one family disregarding
 During national day cerebrations (e.g. 6th their backgrounds.
July, Martyr`s Day on 15 March,
Chilembwe Day on 15th January)
Importance of peaceful co - existence
 During football matches
 It promotes socio – economic development
 Wedding times of the community and the country
 During funeral and religious ceremonies  It promotes tranquility among the people
 During days of national disasters  It promotes patriotism and maintenance of
people and development
Factors that promote co – existence  It encourages the appreciation and the
 Humanity: (regarding an treating each other sharing of knowledge among different
fairly) people
 Education brings together people of  It helps to avoid conflicts that may result in
different backgrounds) a major civil war in the country
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UNIT 15
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Success criteria
1. Identify the national institutions that assist in conflict resolution.
2. Describe the functions of national institutions that assist in conflict resolution.
3. Describe the causes of conflicts in Africa.
4. Explain the effects of conflicts in Africa.
5. Describe the process of conflict resolution in Africa.
6. Identify the regional organisations that assist in conflict resolution in Africa.
7. Explain the importance of peaceful conflict resolution.
8. Identify the ways of avoiding conflicts in Africa.
Conflict refers to misunderstanding between two Conflicts come from people of different
persons or groups of people. cultural backgrounds, e.g. there was war in
Burundi between the Tutsi and Hutus
Types of Conflicts
1. Individual Conflict e. Social and economic differences
It happens when there are quarrels between  There are some conflicts that come as a
individuals or communities. Individuals result of competing for the same resources.
quarrel over materials or their differences  At work, there are also conflicts between
in terms of religions, politics and ethnic employers and employees over the
backgrounds. conditions of service such as salaries and
2. National Conflict allowances.
This involves conflicts between countries
or between ethnic groups within the Effects of Conflicts
country. For example, in Burundi there was  Injuries and death of people
a civil war between the Tutsi and the  Destruction of property
Hutus.  Refugee problems that destroy environment
in a host country
Causes of Conflicts  Violation of human rights
a. Land disputes  Famine as people do not have time to work
People quarrel over a piece of land. in the fields
b. Political differences
 Retarded development as govern spend huge
Differences in political opinions cause
sum of money buying weapons instead of
conflicts in the country. For example,
investing in development projects.
supporters of different political parties may
fight each other.
National institutions that assist in conflict
Some conflicts are because of having different
resolution
religions or beliefs.
 Traditional leaders
c. Religious differences
Different religious beliefs cause conflicts in  Courts of law
the country.  Malawi Congress of Trade Union (MCTU)
d. Cultural differences  Public Affairs Committee (PAC)
 Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace
(CCJP)
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should be controlled but they cannot be

Strategies for conflict resolution avoided.
 Negotiation 4. Identifying facts and issues
This is where people involved in conflicts  Arbitrator summarizes the stories by
talk to each other and agree on common identifying the main facts and issues.
solution of ending conflicts. It is also known Skills needed at this stage are like
as contact and dialogue. It is the peaceful paraphrasing, outlining, pausing and
conflict resolution strategy. clarifying.
 Mediation  Deciding the main issues to be resolved
This is where the conflicting parties, groups first.
or persons discuss and find solutions to their 5. Identifying alternative solutions
conflicts which they agree but in the Giving chance to disputants to give solution
presence of a third person who helps in to the conflicts, they should be guided. Do
creating a peaceful and friendly not impose solutions for them.
environment. That third person is called a 6. Discussing and revising solutions
mediator. A mediator does not pass Generating and evaluating the most
judgment; he/she only facilitates peaceful workable solution. Caucuses (separate
discussions. discussions) are sometimes used with each
party in order to explore emotions and
 Arbitration unstated interests or goals.
It also called conciliation or adjudication. 7. Reaching an agreement
This involves inviting a third person who  Deciding the solution to the conflict.
helps to resolve the conflicts by passing a  Deciding what will happen if each party
judgment. A person is called an arbitrator. does not conform to the agreed solution.
Arbitration follows legal procedures of
resolving conflicts. Skills needed when resolving conflicts
 Active listening (nodding)
Steps to be followed in conflict resolution  Ability to give feedback and summarize the
process story
1. Setting up conditions for conflict  Adapting to disputing parties
resolution  Being impartial, do not take sides.
The conditions may include the following:  Empathy (sharing feelings with those in
 Identifying a mediator or arbitrator suffering).
 Venue  Non – judgmental attitude (do not make
 Setting up nature of discussion (face to baseless judgments without further scrutiny
face or separate) of the issues)
2. Introduction  Demonstrating interest and willingness to
 Welcoming the audience and greetings assist
 Make introductions and introducing the  Demonstrating patience and respect for both
arbitrators disputing parties. A mediator or arbitrator
 Creating friendly atmosphere must not be emotional or must not rush to
 Setting up rules for discussions take measures that put each side at a
3. Telling the story disadvantage.
 Conflicting parties tell the story
beginning with a complainant followed Regional organisations that assist in conflict
by the other without any interruptions. resolution
 Asking questions for further and clear  Common Market for Eastern and Southern
clarification of the story. Arguments Africa (COMESA)
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 Southern African Development Community monitor and observe peace process such as
(SADC) in DRC.
 Economic Community for West African The assistance by the peacekeeping
States (ECOWAS) processes includes the following:
 African Union (AU)  Confidence–building measure
 Central African Economic and Monetary  Power sharing arrangements
Community (CEMAC)  Electoral support
 Inter – Governmental Authority on  Strengthening the rule of law
Development.  Economic and social development
 Economic Community for Central African e. Peacemaking
States It is the actual conflict transformation
process that focuses on equitable power
Ways how countries keep peace relationships by establishing means of
 Geographical and political proximity agreeing on ethical decisions within a
 Capacity to quick response to problems community, or groups of people.
 Ability to understand better the dynamics, It brings reconciliation and mutual
contexts and ways of resolving conflicts understanding among the adversaries in the
 Understanding each other about cultural country.
controls and ways of resolving conflicts.
Importance of peaceful conflict resolution
Strategies used by regional organisations to  Establishes and maintains long lasting
resolve conflicts peace.
a. Contact and dialogue  It promotes good relationship, unity and
The conflicting parties talk to each other cooperation which are important keys to
about their conflicts and agree on a common socio – economic development.
solution to the problem. They are assisted by  It reduces loss of life, suffering and
the third party (either organisation or destruction of property.
individual persons).  It helps to avoid war and outside
Contact and dialogue is the most peaceful interference.
conflict resolution method.  It promotes genuine reconciliation between
b. Embargo disputing parties.
It is an economic ban imposed on some  It promotes culture of tolerance.
countries that violate the rights of people.
Some countries are prohibited to take part in Ways of avoiding national conflicts
international affairs until when they conform  Exercising transparency and accountability
to the international law.  Practising culture of non - discrimination
c. Sanctions and inclusion
This is a coercive measure that countries  Mutual tolerance and respect
adopt against a country or individuals in  Promoting justice for all.
order to elicit change in their behaviour.  Use of rule of law
Economic sanctions are limited to certain  Exercising good governance or effective
sectors such as armament, food sales or democratic leadership.
medicine. Sanction seems similar to an
 Fighting against all forms of injustice like
embargo.
corruption
d. Peacekeeping
 Control of arm sales
It refers to the activities that tend to create
conditions that favor lasting peace.  Early warning systems
Countries send peacekeeping troops who
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UNIT 16
PERSONAL FINANCE MANAGEMENT
Success criteria
1. Describe savings
2. Explain the importance of saving
3. Explain the meaning of the term investment
4. Describe the importance of investment
 Budget refers to a financial plan that gives  It is a key towards achievement of one`s
some guidelines on how to spend or utilize financial goals
household incomes. It is also defined as a plan
of future incomes and expenditures.
 Family income comes from various sources Results of lack of budgeting
such as employment, small scale businesses  Financial distress or Lack of financial
and other economic activities. freedom
 Over indebtedness
Factors which must be considered when  Over consumption of money
budgeting  Negligible personal and household
 Listing down all the previous expenditures. development
This forms the starting point for current  Dependency on payday loans (katapila)
budgeting.
 Keeping receipts of our budgeting Savings and investment
 Creating an expenditure plan for the  Savings is the amount of income that one
forthcoming month keeps for future use. It is advisable hat one
 Prioritising your expenditure and a budget. must save at least 10% of his/her income.
 Sticking to your budget  Investment refers to the money used in the
 When spending, think before you do way that may earn you more money. For
example, you start a business or buy share in
Some of the priorities that one must consider a company.
include:
 Basic necessities like food and utilities Financial institutions where people can invest
 Reducing your debts as low as possible or save their money
 Settle your debts  Commercial Banks, e.g. National Bank of
 Budget for savings and have a clear vision of Malawi and Standard Bank
the goals you want to achieve  Deposit Taking Microfinance Institutions
 Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCO)
Importance of budgeting  Treasury bonds with the Reserve Bank of
 It helps people to know how to spend money Malawi
 It helps to decide on your priorities and needs
to be changed Importance of saving
 It helps a person to plan on how to use your  It helps to save money for future
money in the future uncertainties, e.g. sicknesses
 It assists you to control your finances
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 It is the life cycle motive – anticipated  Having savings account in the commercial
future expenses during old age banks
 The improvement motive – it is a key to  Opening fixed deposit account in the
personal development and asset building commercial banks
 Saving for investment – multiplier effect  The stock market – shares, treasury bonds
which means wealth building and others
 Saving for good education  Collective savings – village banks
Different ways through which people can save  Individuals borrow working capital for their
and invest microenterprises. There are banks that target
 Saving through property helping poor people, e.g. FINCA.
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UNIT 17
INVESTMENT
Success criteria
1. Explain the meaning of the term „investment.
2. Identify types of investment.
3. Explain the meanings of the terms „capital market‟ and „money market‟.
4. Identify the key market players in the capital market and money market.
5. Explain the meaning of investment opportunities in the capital market and money market.
6. Describe the types of investment opportunities in capital market and money market.
7. Describe the importance of capital market and money market in economic development.
8. Explain the terms and conditions of various investment opportunities in capital market and money
market.
9. Describe the importance of investment on economic development.
Investment refers to the production of capital diamond, rubies, emeralds, sapphires and
goods which are not consumed but instead used pearls. Art objects are things which have
in future production such as a building, or doing high aesthetic values that include paintings,
any form of business. sculptures and etchings.
Examples of investment
 Saving money in the bank to earn interests. 2. Financial investment
 Engaging in informal money lending. It is also divided into the following
 Buying or building a house and selling it categories:
later. a. Marketable investment: It involves
 Buying mutual fund which is a pool of lots bonds, shares and government
of investors‟ money to purchase a variety of securities.
investments. b. Transferable investment
 Becoming an agro – dealer. c. Non – marketable investment: It
 Buying shares and selling them at a profit. includes bank deposit, dividends and
Types of investments pension funds, insurance certificates,
Investment involves the buying and selling of post office deposits, national saving
the financial assets, physical assets and certificates, company deposits and
marketable assets in both primary and secondary private company‟ shares.
markets. Funds are used in investment for Financial market
further creation or acquisition of existing assets Market is a place or mechanisms through which
The main types of investment are physical and buyers and sellers exchange goods and services
financial investment. using generally accepted medium of exchange
such as money.
1. Physical investments
It includes owning real estate (like a rental Financial market is a specialized market which
or residential house, land, a building) and is responsible for transferring financial resources
precious objects. Real estate means from surplus units (savers) to deficit units (those
managing property right. who need additional funds to run businesses).
Precious objects are small things but with It is made up of all financial institutions which
high money value, e.g. precious stones (gold obtain money from surplus units of the economy
and silver), precious stones, art objects of and transfer them to the deficit units through
lending activities.
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 It can be issued directly by

companies to investors or through
banks/merchant bankers.
Divisions of financial market  It has a maturity period of 90 to
Financial market has two main divisions that 180 days.
are:  It involves hardly any
a. Money market documentation between the issuer
This is where short term funds or financial and investor (simplicity).
assets called near money are traded. It is  The issuer can issue commercial
responsible for lending and borrowing short paper with the maturities tailored
term loans. to match the cash flow of the
It also deals with debt instruments which company (flexibility).
have a maturity less than two years from the  They provide higher returns to
time of borrowing. investors than they get from the
Money markets are highly liquid banking system.
i. Treasury Bills (TBs) and Reserve
Bank Bills iv. REPOS
ii. Certificates of Deposits (CDs)  This means the Repurchase
 They refer to short term deposits Agreement. Repo involves a
which are transferable from one simultaneous “Sale and
party to another. Repurchase” Agreement.
 They are issued by banks and  Dealers‟ or government‟s
financial institutions to raise sums securities such as treasury bills are
of money for their economic sold to lenders and agree to
activities. repurchase them at an agreed
 They are issued at discount to face future date at an agreed price.
value and are payable on fixed  The difference between the
date without grace days. borrowing price and original price
 They are most convenient to is the cost for the borrower. The
depositors as they enable their cost of borrowing is called Repo
short term surpluses to earn higher Rate which is cheaper than pure
return. They also offer higher borrowing.
interest rates than Treasury Bills.  Repos are very convenient
They are also risk free. It can be instrument for short term
sold to another person. investment.
 They are safe and earn
iii. Commercial Papers predetermined return.
 It is a short term money market
that involves issuing a promissory b. Capital markets
note with a fixed maturity. They are financial markets for the buying
 It is issued at a discount to face and selling of long – term debt securities or
value base. capital funds usually over one year. They
 It can be issued in interest bearing transfer surplus funds (the wealth of savers)
form as may be determined by the to those who can put it to long – term
issuing company which is productive use or raising capital for the
approved by the Reserve Bank of operations of their businesses.
Malawi. Capital markets are divided into primary
and secondary markets.
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maturity of over one year but up to

In primary markets, new bonds are sold to ten years.
investors through under – writing (buying  It is the most popular security as
all stocks in a company not bought by a there is a large secondary market
public at agreed price. that adds to the liquidity.
 It can be transferable and
negotiable.
i. Stocks  You can hold a note until it
 They are shares (equal part into matures or sell it before it matures.
which the capital of a business is  After the primary auction, the note
divided, giving share holder a right may be traded on the Malawi
to portion of the profits) in a Exchange Market.
company. Stocks increase when the  It can be pledged as collateral to
company makes profits. obtain loans.
 Government promises to a T – note
Advantages of stocks holder to pay interest and amount
 They outperform other investments with a specific date.
such as bank deposits, money  Government provides to the
market funds, bonds, real estates investors a half – yearly interest
and commodities. which is given only on presentation
 Stockholders or shareholders have of the note.
voting rights that depositors do not
have. They can elect Board of iii. Bonds
Directors and Managing Directors  Bonds are debt securities (a form
during the annual general meeting. of borrowing) issued by borrowers
 Shareholders are real owners of a such as government or large
company. Shareholders are given companies seeking to raise funds
ownership certificate of a company for their operations or to expand
i.e. sharing certificate. businesses.
 Advantage of equity shares are  They are also called fixed income
that: securities because most bonds pay
 Profit expectation is high. steady stream of interest income at
 Shareholders are free to periodic intervals throughout the
transfer ownership to another life of the bond usually half yearly.
person without any risk.  Corporate bonds are issued by
 If a company earns profits, it companies or corporations. These
also raises a share value. are risky due to default or
Equity share means that investors bankruptcy.
have equal shares in the company.  Government borrows money using
Treasury – Bills due to inability to
Disadvantage of stocks meet its expenses from current
 Stock prices fluctuate which makes revenue.
shareholders easily lose part or all  Bonds are the cheapest source of
his/her money. financing. In Malawi the Treasury
Bonds are those securities with
ii. Treasury Notes T – notes) more than ten years of maturity.
 It is a marketable government debt Bonds can be secured or not
security with interest rate and a unsecured.
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 The interest rate paid and recorded It mobilizes the savings from the small
in the bond is called the coupon investors, invest them in government and
rate which is paid semi – annually. other corporate securities and earn income
 The value of a bond is called face through interest and dividends. It is a one
value or par value. way of wealth creation due to high return,
 The face value bond represents the lower cost and diversified risk. Mutual funds
promise to repay the amount to the are responsible for:
bond holder at the end of the  Channeling and mobilizing savings for
specified period. investment
 Offering a wide portfolio investment in
Key market players in capital markets and different schemes.
money markets  Providing better yields to investors.
a. Stock brokers/Dealers  Rendering expertise investment service
A stockbroker is an agent that simply buys at low cost.
or sells securities on behalf of an investor  Widely offering tax benefits to
and charges a commission by levying some investors.
form of tax for the service executed. e. The Stock Exchange
For example, there is Stockbrokers Malawi It is a highly organized financial market
Limited (SML) which is responsible for the where bonds, stocks, shares and government
following roles: securities can be sold or bought. For
 Facilitating the buying and selling of example, The Malawi Stock Exchange
government securities. exchanges investments in a quickest,
 Provides investors with information cheapest and fairest manner. It is open to
about opportunities available for both domestic and foreign investors.
purchases from the SML. f. Investing Public
b. Registrar Individual or institution can invest by
It is an operator in the money and capital buying financial securities with an aim of
market that is responsible for keeping making some financial returns from a
records about the ownership of the particular investment. If one wants to buy
company‟s security. Its roles are: securities, he/she cannot go directly to the
 To compile records on the transfers of Stock Exchange. Stock broker executes the
securities between investors to avoid role of selling the securities in the market.
confusion on claims arising from g. Accountants (auditors) and Solicitors
benefits associated with holding such Certified accountants or auditors are
securities. required to authenticate the extent to which
 To prepare the list of investors who financial statements can reliably inform the
qualify to receive dividends from the true picture of the company‟s decision
company‟s annual dividend making.
disbursement to shareholders. The companies also may need legal experts
c. Mutual Funds/investment managers like lawyers that may guide them on the
Mutual funds are also known as Unit Trust rules and regulations that facilitate the
Funds. They are non – bank financial operations of the companies.
institutions that mobilize resources from the
general public for investment in the capital Investment opportunities in capital market
or money markets. and money market
d. Mutual Funds (Collective Investment Investment opportunities are favourable
Scheme) combination of circumstances for perspective
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investors to make their money make more Each security is associated with fees which
money for them. include the amount a security pays to its
investment advisor for services provided,
Examples of investment opportunities are: including management of the fund‟s
 Preference shares portfolio.
 Fixed deposit in companies
 Government securities Importance of capital markets and money
 Bank deposits markets investment in economic development
 Real estate  They create strong incentive for investment.
 Money market instruments  They foster trade and business linkages
 Precious objects thereby facilitating improved use of resource
 Mutual fund. and technological diffusion.
 The money market provides a parking place
Types of Investment opportunities in capital to employ short term surplus funds and
market and money market room for overcoming short term deficits.
a. Shares  The money market also enables the Central
b. Collective investment schemes Bank to influence and regulate liquidity in
(CIS)/Mutual Funds the economy through its intervention in the
c. Commercial papers market.
d. Treasury bills  The money market also provides a
e. Treasury notes reasonable access to users of short term
f. REPOS funds to meet their requirements quickly,
Terms and conditions of various investments adequately and at reasonable rate.
opportunities in capital market and money  They stimulate investment in both physical
market and human resources by mobilizing savings
a. Investment maturity period for productive investment and facilities.
This is the period when financial instrument  They also channel savings to more
remains outstanding or ceases to exist where productive uses by collecting and analyzing
the principle is paid with an interest. The information about investment opportunities.
borrower of a bond has to pay back with an  They help the public and private operators to
interest. make use of various financial instruments to
b. Interest rates raise and invest short term funds which can
This is the rate at which interest is paid. Low be liquidated anytime to satisfy short term
interest rates promote the development of and long term needs.
businesses while very high interest rates  They aid companies to issue the corporate
reduce the investment plans since money bonds finance long term development
becomes very expensive to borrow. projects like construction of new buildings,
c. Investment yield introduction of new technologies and
Each financial security has a yield which is purchase of equipment.
an interest or income that a person receives  They also help corporations to issue
from an investment. financial resources for long term
It is therefore the measure of investor‟s investments.
opinion about the prospects and risks  They help investors to make money through
attached to that investment. The better the buying and selling financial securities.
prospects and the lower the risks while the When they buy debt instruments like
lower the expected yield and thus the greater government bonds, municipal bonds or
the capital value. corporate bond, they receive interest and
d. Management fees, e.g. withholding tax principle at the end of a certain period as a
Page 46 of 87
shareholder and investor receive a profit larger capital appreciation in the years to
from the company at the end of a given come.
period.  It provides opportunities for stock
exchanges to render the services of
Importance of investment in economic stimulating private savings and channeling
development such savings into productive investment
 It promotes a larger consumption in future
as it leads to more economic income and
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UNIT 18
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Success criteria
1. Define the term „economic development
2. Identify the sectors of economy in Malawi
3. Explain how the sectors of economy contribute to economic development
Economy refers to all activities that are related  The main transport systems of Malawi
to the production, distribution and consumption include water, land and air.
of goods and services at local, national and  Transport is used for carrying goods
international levels. from point of production and distributes
Proper financial management encourages them to factories for processing and
economic development at local or family level. various points of consumption.
The country also may achieve economic  It is also used for carrying exports and
development by investing much in education, imports of the country.
human resources and natural resources which  Transport carries people to various
will in turn help to provide better services to its places, such as work, homes and visiting
citizens. places of interest. In general, transport is
the catalyst of the country‟s
On the other hand, economic development is development.
the increase in the amount of production of c. Power
goods and services in the country. It provides energy for both industrial and
It is also defined as the increase in the country‟s domestic use. Malawi‟s power comes from
wealth measured by amount of goods and hydro – electricity generated by ESCOM
services produced by the country. and ERGENCO at Nkula and Tedzani.
Weak or poor economy is due to inadequate d. Forestry
resources or the country‟s failure to manage its This involves planting and caring for trees
resources. which are source of timber for furniture
production and construction industry. Other
Sectors of economy people work in saw – mills where timber is
a. Agriculture produced and pulp mills for paper making.
 It is the largest economic sector in The major forest in Malawi is Chikangawa
Malawi. e. Fishing
 Many people more especially rural The activities related to fishing in the major
inhabitants (farmers) work in crop and rivers and lakes in Malawi are:
animal production for both subsistence i. Some people work as fishermen
and commercial purpose. Agricultural ii. Others do fish selling in fish markets.
products are the main exports for f. Industry
Malawi. Industry is the process of turning raw
 Some people work in sugar, tea and materials into the finished products that can
tobacco estates for their living and be used.
income.
 Agriculture is the backbone of the Types of industries
Malawi‟s economy. There are four types of industries namely
b. Transport
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a. Primary Industry: it produces raw  It is source of government‟s revenue

materials from the environment, such as from electricity consumers and
agriculture, fishing, forestry and mining. electricity exports.
b. Secondary Industry: it turns raw materials  It offers employment opportunities in
into finished products. Industries that generation, distribution and installation
manufacture new products with employed of electricity.
labour is called factory. They include beer  It provides energy used to produce
brewing, textile, cement making and soap goods and services in industries.
making.  It promotes the growth of other
Tertiary Industry: It is concerned with industries such as fishing, forestry and
distribution of goods and provision of mining.
services such as transportation, teaching,  It is used for small scale domestic
banking and extension services. purposes.
Manufacturing does not take place here. d. Forestry
Quaternary Services: It collects and  It provides timber for construction
provides information as well as expert industry.
evaluation. It is also described as knowledge  It provides income from timber
– based industry. Workers are highly exports.
qualified within their field of study. They
 It is source of energy in terms of
include law, computer programming,
firewood.
biotechnology and consultancy.
 It is source of employment to people
who work in timber industry.
Contributions of different Sectors to the
Country‟s Economic Development  It beautifies the country side that
a. Agriculture attracts tourists.
 It is source of government‟s revenue e. Fishing
through exports.  It provides employment to fishermen,
 It supplies food for people and fodder fish sellers and people working in
industries related to fishing.
for domestic animals.
 It provides raw materials for industrial  It promotes the growth of small – scale
production. industries, such as net making and boat
building.
 It gives employment opportunities to
almost 80% of Malawi‟s population.  It provides cheap source of animal
protein.
 It is source of income that helps to
 It is source of income to fishermen and
improve people‟s living standards.
fish sellers.
b. Transport
 It earns the country foreign exchange
 It stimulates trade by carrying goods
through exports of some fish species
to different places.
like Mbuna.
 It offers easy movement of people,
 Fish are source of raw materials, fish
goods and services to remote places or
products are used for manufacturing
countries.
animal feed and fish oil.
 It provides employment to people who
 Recreation: fish attracts tourists more
work as drivers, mechanics and pilots.
especially the divers and anglers.
 It promotes the development of other
f. Industry
sectors of economy, such as mining
 It produces goods and services.
and manufacturing.
c. Power  It provides employment to people.
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UNIT 19
MORAL AND ETHICAL CODE OF CONDUCT
Success criteria
1. Explain the importance of moral and ethical code of conduct at home and school
2. Identify moral and ethical codes of conduct at home and school
3. Identify social problems at home and school
4. Describe causes of social problems at home and school
5. Explain the effects of moral degradation or break down of moral values
6. Suggest ways of preventing moral decay or moral breakdown.
7. Explain the importance of human virtues
Ethics refers to one`s ability to difference between  Being humble.

good and bad, wrong and right.  Being responsible.
Moral is a standard of personal behaviour which Importance of practicing sound moral and
is accepted in the society. ethical code of conduct
Ethical and moral code of conduct refers to a set  There is peace
of rules about how to behave in a society.  It promotes orderliness
 It brings about unity
Ethical and moral code of conduct  It promotes good health
1. Respect: this means respecting oneself, other  It promotes cooperation
people`s property and environment
2. Responsibility: this is the sense of being
Social Problems at Home and School
honest, reliable, sensible and trustworthy
 Indiscipline: showing unruly behaviours to
3. Self – discipline: this applies to self – control,
parents, teachers and other elders.
hard work and perseverance.
 Rebellion: rebellion refers to the act against
4. Tolerance: this refers to accepting other
people`s views, ideas, beliefs, customs and the authorities that may lead to conflicts.
behaviours.  Sexual harassment: rape and defilement
5. Loyalty: being faithful to one`s friends,  Teenage pregnancy:
family and country.  Abortion: this refers to termination of
pregnancy prematurely.
Moral values expected of boys and girls in  Drug and substance abuse: this refers to the
interpersonal relationship use of drugs and substances for wrong
 Saying NO to beer drinking and smoking. purposes. E.g. smoking Indian hemp and
 Abstaining from pre – marital sex. sniffing glue
 Respecting each other, other‟s parents, elders  Drunkenness: it brings poverty and nuisance
and those in authority. behaviours in the society.
 Saying NO to corruption, violence, vandalism,  Child abuse: corporal punishment, child
harassment and other forms of crime. labour, defilement and neglect.
 Respecting for life, property and the
environment. Causes of Social Problems
 Being tolerant.  Peer pressure: peers influence each other to
 Being honest indulge in risky behaviours, such as
premarital sex.
 Being hard working.
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 Frustration: this is the state of being  Seeking guidance and counseling

disappointed or annoyed that sometimes may  Respecting parents, elders, those in authority
lead to beer drinking and smoking Indian and other fellow peers.
hemp.  Learning to promote and protect own and
 Lack of parental guidance: some parents others integrity
fail to advise their children on the proper  Applying moral principles when making
behaviour. decisions.
 Poverty: girls accept to have sexual  Respecting human rights.
intercourse for money. They think that this  Developing personal moral principles that
may alleviate poverty and they end up guide your own conduct towards others.
contracting HIV/AIDS and early pregnancy.  Practising peaceful conflict resolution process.
 Orphanhood: an orphan is a child who has  Problem solving and decision making: This
lost one or both parents due to death. Some involves identifying a problem, analyzing it,
orphans engage into prostitution due to lack weighing the alternatives and making the most
of basic needs after the death of their parents. rational choice. This helps to make choices
 Drug and substance abuse: drug abusers after looking at their consequences.
can easily rape and defile. They are also  Self – discipline and assertiveness.
always rebellious. Assertiveness refers to standing firmly on
one`s opinion or rights without offending
Effects of degradation of moral values others`.
 Setting goals in life. A goal is one`s purpose
Breakdown of moral Effects of breakdown or aim in future. This helps one to resist risky
values of moral values behaviours and concentrate on important
Beer drinking Violence issues
Poverty
Road accidents Human virtues and vices
Reckless sexual Virtue is a character or trait that is accepted and
acidities valued in the society; a vice refers to a trait that is
Corruption Retards development bad or unacceptable by the society.
Drug and substance Violence
abuse Committing crimes Examples of virtues
Smoking Violence  Tolerance
Committing crimes  Responsibility
Lack of respect for Not sympathizing with  Humility
life those in suffering  Justice
Killing fellow human  Self – control
beings  Prudence
Lack of respect for Deforestation
 Charity
environment Pollution
 Respect
Global warming
 Obedience
Lack of respect for Disunity
elders and parents  Courage
Lack of tolerance Conflicts and fighting  Generosity
Rudeness Quarrelling  Patience
Conflicts  Hard work
Ways of preventing moral degradation or Examples of Vices

breakdown of moral values  Intolerance
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 Disobedience Some of the moral values required in interpersonal

 Drunkenness relationship among boys and girls may include the
 Arrogance following.
 Impudence  Saying no to smoking and beer drinking.
 Selfishness  Abstaining from premarital sex.
 Greed  Respect for parents, elders and others in
 Impatience authority.
 Cowardice  Being trustworthy.
 Envy  Compassion for the sick, old and weak.
 Dishonest  Saying no to corruption, violence, vandalism,
 Disrespect harassment and other forms of crime.
 Respect for life, property and the
Importance of human virtues environment.
 They promote peace and understanding  Tolerance.
 They promote hardworking spirit in the
community which leads to development Causes of breakdown of moral values in society
 Peer pressure.
Disadvantages of vices  Influence of media.
 They promote mistrust  Influence of drugs and alcohol abuse.
 They promote disunity  Lack of decision making and problem solving
 They promote frustration among the people skills among the youth.
 They promote conflict in the society.  Lack of a sound moral and ethical code of
conduct.
Moral values expected of boys and girls in  Lack of self-discipline and assertiveness.
interpersonal relationship in the society  Lack of guidance and counseling.
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UNIT 20
ADOLESCENCE AND SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT
Success criteria
1. Explain the physical and psychological changes that take place in a person`s body during puberty and
adolescence
2. Identify responsible adolescence in interpersonal relationship
3. Explain the effects of responsible and irresponsible adolescence in interpersonal relationships
 Adolescence is the period of human growth

between puberty and adolescence.
Adolescence starts with sexual maturity.
 There are many changes that take place in Psychological changes
adolescent boys and girls which are  Interest in opposite sex
classified as physical and psychological  Desire to become independent
changes.  Interest in own appearance
 Development of personal values
Physical changes  Shyness
a. In girls  Interest in sex news, pictures and films
 Widening of hips  Keeping secrets
 Menstruation  Sensitive to remarks
 Soft voice
 Growth of labia Effects of psychological changes
 Growth of breasts  Boys feel urgent and pressing for sexual
desires
b. In boys  Girls become obsessed with their physical
 Growth of facial hairs appearance
 Deep voice  Both boys and girls become obsessed with
 Broadening of chest and shoulders sexual conversations, music and pictures
 Wet dreams  Some are shy, rude, short tempered and
 Enlargement of penis and testicles quarrelsome
 Development of muscles
Opportunities of adolescents
c. In both boys and girls  Choices of career
 Growth of pubic and arm pit hair  Choices of friends
 Increase in body weight, height and size.  Recognizing their own uniqueness and
worthiness
Effects of physical changes on the adolescent  To learn useful skills in life
 Menstruation causes emotional anxiety and  Pursuing further education
embarrassment. For example, girls fail to  Contributing to the family income or earning
handle their menstruation for the first time money
and on the part of boys they fail to  Engaging in relationships and friendships
understand the issue of involuntary
ejaculation for the first time. Challenges of adolescents
 There are emotional and sexual turmoil.  Peer pressure
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 Expectations from parents and teachers  It encourages deviance behaviours and

 Community demands rebellion
 Personal values and goals  Indiscipline which encourages theft
 Poor health due to early sexual activities and
drug and substance abuse
Characteristics of responsible adolescents in
Interpersonal relationships Ways of avoiding irresponsible adolescence
 Receptive attitude to authority, guidance and  Being obedient to parents, teachers, elders
counseling. and other authorities
 Promotion of the spirit of brother/sisterhood  Taking well – thought out decisions on an
 Control of one`s emotions issue
 Care for public property  Resisting negative peer pressure
 Observance of norms and values in a society  Seeking guidance and counseling
 Empathy: it is considering others as you.  Good planning of one`s leisure time
 Proper choice of peers  Setting up one`s goal
 Engaging in positive endeavors, such as
Effects of irresponsible adolescence sporting activities
 Destroying mutual trust among adolescents
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UNIT 21
GOOD HEALTH AND GROOMING HABITS
Success criteria
1. Identify good personal hygiene
2. Explain ways of keeping oneself physically fit
3. Describe ways of keeping the surrounding clean
4. Explain the importance of practicing good health habits
Personal hygiene and grooming habits  Mopping inside of houses and buildings
Good personal and grooming habits assist an  Trimming hedges
individual to live a health life. Here are some of  Draining stagnant water
good personal and grooming habits:
 Bathing Advantages of keeping the surrounding clean
 Washing dirty clothes  It helps to keep mosquitoes away.
 Brushing dirty clothes  It drives dangerous animals away from the
 Combing hair surrounding.
 Cleaning genitals  The surrounding looks more attractive.
 Eating a healthy diet  It keeps dirt away from us.
 Drinking plenty of water  It keeps our homes free from parasites.
Importance of personal hygiene and grooming Good health habits

habits  Use of handkerchief.
 To look more presentable and smart.  Washing hands before eating.
 To remove dirt and bad smell.  Washing fruits before eating them.
 To remove lice and germs that may cause  Proper use of rubbish pits and bins.
diseases.  Proper use of toilets.
 Brushing teeth prevents tooth decay and
remove bad smell. Ways of keeping ourselves physically fit
 Combing and shaving hair make one to look  Sleeping early and getting enough sleep.
smart.  Doing physical exercises.
 Doing manual work.
Ways of keeping the surroundings clean  Proper planning of one`s leisure time.
 Planting flowers.  Maintaining correct posture, e.g. sleeping
 Slashing grass around premises. correctly, sitting and walking upright and
 Picking up and disposing litter into rubbish walking fast.
bins or pits.
 Sweeping outside premises. Importance of practicing good health habits
 Avoid urinating in public places such as  You keep yourselves physically fit.
trees, houses and walls of fences.  You do not get ill frequently.
 Making up one`s bed every morning.  It helps one to be productive as a healthy
 Sweeping and dusting inside of houses and person
buildings.
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UNIT 22
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Success criteria
1. Explain the term social justice
2. Describe examples of social injustice in the community
3. Explain the importance of social justice in the home and community
Justice refers to treatment of a person that is iii. Oppression

fairly and morally right. This treatment Some people are prevented from speaking
considers person`s ability, both physically and out their mind. Sometimes the police
mentally. prevent people from expressing
themselves during their investigations.
Social justice refers to the situation where iv. Discrimination
everybody is treated fairly and their rights are This is when individual are treated
respected by individuals and institutions such differently from the other basing on
police, law courts and the government. economic status, healthy status, race, sex
and ethnicity. For example, some people
Social injustice in the home and community are given coupons of subsidized fertilizer
Social injustice is when some people in the because they are sick.
community are treated better than the other
whose rights are not respected. Some of the Importance of social justice
social injustices are:  It promotes socio – economic development
i. Poverty  It enhance respect of human dignity in the
Some people get riches at the expense of society
the other. The poor work for the rich with  It promotes the spirit of belongingness to the
little or no pay. society as every person feels equally
ii. Corruption important as others.
Corruption is the practice of giving an  It promotes the spirit of hard work in the
officer something in order to take an society since every person gets what she/he
action in favour of a giver. Those who deserves
cannot offer something suffer.
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UNIT 23
JUDICIAL SYSTEMS IN MALAWI
Success criteria
1. Identify institutions that administer justice in Malawi
2. Explain the role of chiefs in administering justice in Malawi
3. Describe the structure of the judicial system in Malawi
4. Identify judicial officers associated with the structure
5. Explain the functions of the judicial officers in the judicial systems in Malawi
6. Explain the functions of each organs in the judicial system in Malawi
7. Explain the importance of the judicial system
The judicial system is made up of the law courts b. Justices of appeal

and the judges. The courts administer justice.  They hear cases at the Supreme and
The chiefs and clans heads in rural areas assist High Courts
the courts in administering justice.  They are in odd numbers, e.g. 3s, 5,
and they pass judgment by voting.
Structure of the judicial systems in Malawi c. High court judges
a. The Supreme Court of Appeal  They hear fresh civil and criminal
b. The High Court cases
c. Industrial Relations Court  They hear appeal cases from the lower
d. Resident Magistrate Courts courts
e. Graded Magistrate Courts d. Registrars to the Supreme and High Courts
f. Tribunals They perform both administrative and
judicial roles.
Cases brought before the courts
 Criminal cases Administrative roles
They are cases which are serious in nature  File documents from different court
or a crime against a state like: proceedings such as affidavits and
Murder statements of claims
 Man slaughter  Set dates for hearing cases
 Human trafficking
 Treason Judicial roles
 Civil cases  Assess damages (money awarded in a
 This involves a mere dispute or particular case)
quarrelling between individuals such:  Grant injunction (an order that
 Petty theft temporarily restrain one party form
 Divorce taking an action)
 Land disputes  Keep a roll of all legal practitioners.
Judicial officers and their duties e. Industrial Relations Court Judges: They hear
a. The Chief Justice cases involving employees and employers.
 He/she is the most senior officer in the Also called a labour court.
judiciary f. Graded magistrates: They hear minor civil
 He/she hears cases at the Supreme and criminal cases. The graded magistrates
Court are grouped into the following categories:
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4th grade magistrate

3rd grade magistrate f. Graded magistrate courts
2nd grade magistrate They hear minor civil and criminal cases.
1st grade magistrate The cases involve employers and their
employees in companies, government and
g. Resident magistrates: They hear civil and organisations.
criminal cases, except treason, murder and
man slaughter. The roles of chiefs in administering justice
They are classified into the following groups  Clan heads resolve family issues
according to their qualifications:  Village heads resolve fresh cases brought
 Chief magistrate to them and appeal cases for clan‟s heads.
 Senior magistrates  T/As and sub – T/As resolve cases
 Principle magistrates appealed to them from their subordinates
 Resident magistrates
How cases are brought before the courts
h. Barristers or lawyers: They are well trained There are many people who bring cases before
people who speak on behalf of two parties in the court which include:
courts. They assist in interpreting the laws to a. The police through the prosecution
the ordinary people who cannot speak for department who act on behalf of person s
themselves. or companies
b. Director of Public Prosecution is a
Functions of courts government lawyer who brings criminal
a. Supreme Court of Appeal cases to court on behalf of the government
It hears appeal cases from the High Court c. The Anti – Corruption Bureau investigates
and the other lower courts cases of corruption and takes them to court.
b. High Courts d. The Office of the Ombudsman investigates
They hear fresh civil and criminal cases cases of injustice and assist aggrieved
They hear appeal cases from the lower persons.
courts e. Private lawyers sue accused persons on
c. Industrial relations courts behalf of their clients
Hear cases involving labour issues in a f. Individual persons or companies can sue
labour court. the government
d. Tribunals
They are established by the Act of Importance of judicial system in Malawi
Parliament to resolve special cases. E.g.  It ensures justice and fairness to all people
National Compensation Tribunal is the  It ensures maintenance of human dignity
one whose purpose is to compensate those  It ensures good governance by checking
people who were tortured or ill- treated abuse of power by government officers.
e. Resident magistrate courts  It protects citizens` rights by ensuring that
They hear civil and criminal cases, except their rights are not violated.
treason, murder and man slaughter.
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UNIT 24
LAW AND ORDER
Success criteria
1. Explain the meaning of the term „law and order‟.
2. Describe the roles of citizens in maintaining law and order.
3. Explain the roles of the police in maintaining law and order.
Meaning of law and order The roles of the police in maintaining law and
It is a situation where people respect a rule of order
law and law breakers are brought to book. The  Conducting patrols to intensify security of
society is free from violence, theft and any form properties and people‟s lives.
of violation of human rights.  Rescuing people from physical attacks.
The roles of citizens in maintaining law and  Enforcing traffic rules and regulations in
order order to avoid accidents.
 Reporting law breakers to police.  Controlling crowds during public events,
 Abiding by the laws. e.g. sports.
 Answering the police questions properly and  Investigating reports of criminal suspects
honestly. and arresting them.
 Forming the neighborhood watch to assist  Controlling riots in public events.
tracking down criminals and taking them to  Tracing the missing people.
police.  Tracing stolen properties for recovery.
 Testifying in court of law when asked.  Taking suspects and testifying in court of
 Following security tips provided by the law.
police in order to curb crimes.  Assisting victims of accidents and domestic
 Not hiding criminals. violence.
 To promote peace and security in the
society...
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UNIT 25
SOCIAL SKILLS
Success criteria
1. Identify the social skills
2. Explain the importance of social skills
Social skills are the abilities necessary to get  Takes up challenges and find their solutions
along with others and to create and maintain  Resists negative peer pressure
satisfying relationships.  Asks for help when in need without feeling
They are also described as interpersonal shy
relationship skills which promote successful  Sets self-realistic goals and strive to achieve
interaction and communication. them
Some of the social skills include:
 Cultural competence Self - esteem
 Assertiveness It is the way we value and feel about ourselves.
 Self – esteem People with high self – esteem have positive
 Decision – making image about themselves. Low self – esteem
 Empathy leads to depression, peer pressure or
 Conflict resolution vulnerability to peer pressure.
 Conversational skills
 Stress and anxiety management Importance of self - esteem
 It helps you feel good about oneself
Cultural Competence  It gives confidence and courage
It refers to one‟s ability to interact with people  It promotes respect for oneself
of different cultures. It includes the following:  It helps you make independent decisions
a. Awareness of one‟s culture  It helps you value your safety, feelings and
b. Positive attitudes towards cultural health.
differences
c. Having knowledge of different cultural Decision making
practices. This is the process of making choices from the
list of options. You must think critically in order
Assertiveness to make well thought out decisions or well
It is one‟s ability to say what you are feeling informed choices.
without hurting or disappointing other people.
Assertive people listen to what other people say Steps in decision making
and respect them. 1. Identifying a problem
2. Defining a problem
Characteristics of an assertive person 3. Exploring the possible solutions and their
 Speaks out for oneself outcomes
 Expresses one‟s views freely 4. Selecting one alternative that will best
 Behave confidently address the problem and implementing the
 Take responsibilities for one‟s actions choice.
 Gets what you want without disappointing 5. Evaluating the decision, i.e. finding out if
others the chosen alternative has yielded the
 Disagrees without getting angry desired results.
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Stress is the natural human response to pressure

Empathy when faced with challenges and sometimes
It is the ability to put yourself in someone‟s dangerous situations.
shoes and recognize their feelings. Sympathy On the other hand, anxiety refers to the feeling
means feeling sorry for someone. of worry and uneasiness due to stress. Prolonged
and uncontrolled stress develops a condition of
Empathetic skills anxiety.
 Noticing other people‟s feelings
 Expressing concern at other people‟s The following are the situations that lead to
distress stress and anxiety:
 Being able to recognize what someone else  Poverty
might be feeling in a given situation.  Poor health
 Showing sensitivity to others‟ feelings when  Examinations
communicating, i.e. being tactful when  Rape
making critical comments.  Death of a loved one
 Competition
Importance of empathy  Conflict
 It builds and strengthens relationship in the  Hunger
community.
 Motivates to assist those who need our help Strategies for managing stress and anxiety
 It helps to communicate with others  Using problem solving and decision making
effectively. skills
 It helps counselors to give proper guidance  Doing physical exercises
and counseling to their clients.  Seeking guidance and counseling
 Relaxing to bring about a general feeling of
Conflict resolution calm
Peaceful conflict resolution is a very important  Planning to take part in pleasant activity
social skill. Contact and dialogue or  Sharing a problem with a trusted friend or
negotiation is the best peaceful way of resolving family member
conflicts in the society.
 Having prayers to revive one‟s hope
People, countries or institutions which are in
 Seeking medical attention
conflict discuss and end their problems together
peacefully.
Characteristics of social skills
 They are goal oriented
Conversational skills
Conversational skills include the following:  They are interrelated
 Taking turns when talking  They are situational< meaning that each
 Listening and showing interest in what social skill should be applied according to
situation.
others are saying
 Take a small talk  They can be taught, learned and practiced.
 Nodding and smiling showing that you are
Importance of social skills
following what they are saying
 They help to build good interpersonal
 Using humor
relationships in the community
 Knowing when to disclose personal
 They promote love and mutual
information and how to do it.
understanding amongst members of the
society.
Stress and anxiety management
 They promote unity in the society.
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UNIT 26
CORRUPTION
Success criteria
1. Explain the meaning of the term „corruption‟.
2. Explain the different forms of corruption.
3. Describe the difference between „gift‟ and „corruption‟.
4. Explain factors that promote corruption in the community.
5. Explain the consequences of corruption in Malawi.
6. Describe ways of uprooting corruption in Malawi.
Corruption means abuse of one‟s official  Lack of stiff punishment for the offenders
powers for personal gain. People offer money or  Poverty
any material in order to influence the actions of  Choosing corrupt leaders
the officials in their favour.
Effects of corruption
Forms of corruption  It brings public insecurity
1. Bribery  It leads to political instability
2. Extortion  It promotes poverty
3. Embezzlement  It leads to loss of government‟s revenue
4. Abuse of power
 It promotes inefficiency in the provision of
5. Conflict of interest
social services
6. Influence peddling
 It reduces productivity as inefficient people
7. Nepotism
are put into powers
8. Favoritism
 Loss of confidence in public workers
Difference between gift and corruption  Loss of respect for corrupt officials
Both corruption and gift are things of a value  It leads to arrest, imprisonment and
given to someone. They are different from each dismissal from work
other as explained in the table below.  It retards development
 It promotes laziness amongst the workers
Corruption Gift  It leads to death of people as a matter of
Giver expects a future
A giver does not concealing the evidence
influence or benefitexpect a benefit in
turn. Ways of uprooting corruption
The giver does not It is given as a sign of  Civic educating people on the consequences
focus on friendship friendship or of and ways of dealing with corrupt
appreciation. practices
 Promoting transparency and accountability
Factors that promote corruption  Establishing The Anti – Corruption Bureau
 Absence of strong institutions of  Strengthening anti – corruption agencies
accountability  Punishing those people found corrupt
 Administrative delays  Reporting to responsible authorities all
 Desire to live in expensive lifestyle corrupt practices
 Greed and selfishness
 Lack of moral values
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 Simplifying bureaucratic procedures in order

to speed up decision making process from The main functions of ACB
top officers.  Investigating cases of corruption
 Promoting moral and ethical code of  Investigating any public officer whose
conduct actions are connected to corruption
 Receiving complaints about corrupt
The Anti – Corruption Bureau (ACB) practices
It was established in 1995 by the Act of  Prosecuting corrupt officers.
Parliament in order to combat corruption.
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UNIT 27
SOCIAL SERVICES
Success criteria
1. Explain the meaning of the term social services
2. Describe institutions that provide social services
3. Describe social services that are needed for the special groups
4. Describe ways in which citizens can assist in the provision of social services
5. Explain the importance of voluntary services in the community
6. Explain the meaning of standards in relation to provision of social services
7. Explain the importance in the provision of social services.
8. Describe the importance of social services.
9. Explain the importance of standards in the provision of social services.
10. Describe the effects of poor standards in the provision of social services.
11. Identify the effects of rapid population growth on social services.
12. Explain the importance of caring for social services.
13. Identify the roles of citizens in the provision of social services.
Social services are the services which are corporation communication and
provided to the society in order to improve their entertainment.
living standards. The social services include Organisations that provide social services
health, education, transport, security, a. Government
communication, religious services and Government has schools and hospitals that
marketing. provide services at local and national
levels.
Social service institutions b. Non – governmental organizations
These are actual places where people go when  Malawi Against Physical disabilities
they are in need of such services that include: (MAP) provide physiotherapy services
 Cheshire Home provides physiotherapy
Social service Social service and education services to children with
institutions provided disabilities
 Save the Children and Plan Malawi
Schools and colleges Education c. Religious institutions
Hospitals Health care Religious organisations named below
ESCOM Electricity provide social services to people.
 Seventh Day Adventist
Water Boards Safe water for both  Catholic Church
domestic and  Anglican Church
industrial use.  Presbyterian Church
Day care centres Provide care to young
children when their Social services for the special groups
mothers are away to i. Mental hospitals for the mad or insane
work people
TNM and Airtel Communication ii. Approved schools or reformatories for
Malawi young offenders or juveniles
Malawi Broadcasting Education,
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iii. Day care centres provide care to small contribute to the

children during the day when their country‟s
mothers are working. development.
iv. Orphanage centres care for the orphans  Makes children
and street children. Orphans are children become active and
who lost one or both parents due to death. intelligent in schools.
v. Rural hospitals assist poor people and the Recreation  Provides relaxation
aged people who cannot access medical and fun to people
services in private hospitals. Guidance and  Removes stress and
vi. Malawi Confederation for the counseling anxiety.
Handicapped (MACOHA) looks after the  Helps people to make
problems that affect the disabled people. informed decisions in
vii. Government department that looks at the life.
problems that affect the aged people. Communication  Enables people to be
in touch with friends
Citizens` responsibility in the provision of
and relatives.
social services
 Enables the message
 Making material and financial contributions
delivery on various
 Attending meetings and taking office in the issues.
organisations that offer social services
Transportation  Facilitates the
 Maintaining the available social services so
movement of goods
as to prolong their utility in the community
and people to
 Taking care of the social services against different destinations.
vandalism and theft Spiritual  Provides emotional
guidance relief.
Voluntary social services
 Provides moral
These are the services that people do at a local
support.
level out of will and passion. They are also
called self – help projects where they do not
expect to be paid. Examples of voluntary Standards in the provision of social services
services are: Standard refers to a formal document which
provides guidelines on the requirements of a
 Construction of a school block
product or a service. It describes minimum
 Drilling a borehole or a well
levels that a product should have in order to be
 Constructing a bus shelter in line with a specific value.
 Construction of roads and bridges
Standardization refers to the process of quality
Importance of voluntary services in the assurance and certification of a product. This
community means that we should provide quality goods and
Social service Importance services that meet minimum requirements in
Education  Produces skilled terms of durability and accessibility.
labour force
 Make people literate Importance of high standards in the provision
Security  Attracts foreign of social services
investors  It helps to ensure that social services that are
 People have no fear provided are of high quality
of losing their  It protects the health of those who receive
properties and lives. the services
Health care  Enables people to
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 It ensures that service providers ensure

accessibility of their different social services b. In health
 It enhances durability of the social services  Death of patients
that are provided  Health facilities become places where
 It ensures that people get services that are people get diseases instead of cure.
valuable  Wastage of resources due to lack of
 It leads to certification that can compete durability of health infrastructures.
favourably on the international market
 It promotes rapid socio – economic c. In general
development of a country  It leads to certification that cannot
compete at an international market
Effects of poor standard in the provision of  It retards socio – economic development
social services of a country
a. In education.  It leads to provision of less durable
 Poor pass rate in national examinations services.
because of low quality teaching.  Delivery of poor quality services.
 Increased cases of cheating in national  Lack of reliability of the social services.
examinations due to lack of confidence in  Lack of efficiency and effectiveness in
the quality of teaching. the delivery of the social services.
 Wastage of resources due to lack of  Loss of public confidence in the social
durability of school infrastructure. services.
 Production of half – baked graduates who  Wastage of public resources due to
cannot cope with the market demands. frequent maintenance or reconstruction.
 Death of patients.
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UNIT 28
GOVERNMENT
Success criteria
1. Identify types of government.
2. Compare types of government.
3. Explain the meaning of the term „democracy‟.
4. Describe types of democracy.
5. Explain the roles of political parties in democracy.
6. Identify characteristics of good governance.
7. Describe the roles of citizens in promoting good governance.
Government refers to the machinery for d. Military government

running the welfare for the country, headed by  It is ruled by the army or soldiers who
one person or a group of people. Government overthrow the elected president.
carries out various programmes that are directed  The rule is by decree or commands
to improve the country‟s social – economic instead of using constitution.
status of its citizens. The activities of the  The sudden take – over of government
government are described by the constitution. or power by the military is called
Types of government military coup or coup d‟état.
There are different types of government, some  The military may overthrow the
include: government when there is a failure in
a. Democracy the normal government system such as
The term democracy is derived from Greek increased corruption by senior
words „demos‟ meaning people while government officials.
„cratos‟ stands for power or authority. For example, coup d‟état took place in
Therefore, the term democracy means the Guinea in 2008 and Egypt in 2013
form of government in which supreme where the military took government and
authority rests in the people. It also means then the civilians elected the ordinary
the government of the people, by the people citizens to rule the country.
and for the people. People are their
representatives who represent them in e. Autocracy
various levels. Leaders make decisions and  It is ruled by a group of people or one
actions for electorates. person who came into power through
election but later they do not want other
b. Republic citizens to challenge them in the next
It is a form of government ruled by an elections.
ordinary person elected into power by the  Leaders demand hero worshipping
citizens, e.g. Republic of South Africa, through praise songs, slogans, and
Republic of Malawi. various displays.
c. Monarchy f. Dictatorship
 It is ruled by queen or king. For It is the type of government which is ruled
example, Swaziland, Saudi Arabia and by one person or a group of people who hold
UK. absolute powers. No one can limit their
powers.
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Characteristics of dictatorship government  Owners of capital or private business firms

 Leaders make decisions without own trade.
consultation.  There is privatization. Privatization refers to
 Leaders do not follow the constitution the transfer of economic activities from
and constitution is by word of their government to private sector. The
mouth. government sells its companies to people
 Dictators want to lead for life. who have capital and can ably manage them.
 Dictators do not entertain any criticism,
e.g. they control the media on what to Advantages of capitalist government
broadcast or publish.  Government does not impose high taxes on
people and their businesses.
The difference between democracy and  It allows people to pay for the health care
dictatorship services and education if possible.
Democracy Dictatorship  It encourages hard working spirit amongst
Leaders are elected No elections to elect the residents for their own benefit.
into power leaders  It promotes individual initiative, high
There is rule of law No rule of law productivity and quality service delivery.
Constitution is made Rule is by word of a  It promotes and protects individual rights,
in parliament dictator competition and freedom of choice which
Freedom of press is Freedom of press is accelerate economic growth.
allowed not allowed
There is multi–party There is one party rule Disadvantages of capitalist government
rule  It exploits workers which promotes poverty.
 It encourages social ills, e.g. poverty,
The difference between democracy and crimes, and insecurity due to existence of a
republic wide gap between the poor and the rich
In democracy, leaders make decisions that within the same society.
reflect the needs and views of their
constituencies. On republic, leaders make Socialist governments
decisions on their own best judgment and of the It is also called communist government which
needs and interests for the entire country. was perpetuated by those who hated the
economic ills of capitalist system during the
Capitalist and socialist governments Industrial Revolution in Europe. Socialism
There are two economic ideas that leaders use in promotes equality to all people in the country.
the development of the country which include Government is at the centre of economic
capitalist and socialist ideas. activities. The government runs the businesses
and the profits are shared equally to its citizens
Capitalist is an economic idea about how to through the provision of social services, such
develop the country. It‟s where the country‟s free medical and education services. The
economic activities are controlled by the private government also subsidizes some essential
sector or individual persons, only those with products so as to make them affordable to the
capital, thus called capitalist economy. citizens.
Characteristics of capitalist government Advantages of socialist government

 It is also called free enterprise economy  There is nationalization. Nationalization
where there is market liberalization. Trade is refers to the transfer of economic activities
free, or there are fewer barriers to trade. from the private sector to public or
People are free to do businesses. government sector.
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 It helps the government to provide social This involves equal participation in decision
services to all people on a relatively equal making. Members of a society directly take part
basis. in or contribute in the process of decision
 It reduces unemployment and poverty. making on issues that affect them. People do not
choose a representative to speak for them. There
Disadvantages of socialist government is direct involvement of citizens on various
 It creates bureaucracy which delays matters of their country. Examples of direct
communication from the grassroots to top democracy include:
management levels in institutions. a. Attending community meetings where they
 It encourages laziness amongst the residents can speak openly.
for their own benefit. b. Making their opinions and vote in favour or
 It reduces individual initiative, productivity against that opinion.
and quality of service delivery. c. Taking part in demonstrations.
 Individual rights, competition and freedom
of choice are limited. Indirect democracy
This is the type of democracy where people
Mixed economy system of government choose representatives who speak or act for
This is where the government and private sectors them. In this case, indirect democracy is also
operate the economy of the country. There is a called representative democracy.
striking balance between the government and People elect members of executive branch of
individuals or firms in the running of businesses. government (i.e. president and his vice),
In some instances, the government set policies, members of legislative branch of government
or rules and regulations that regulate the private (e.g. MPs) and local councilors.
sector on how they go about their businesses.
For example, the government owns companies Types of indirect democracy
whose profits are meant for the provision of a. Parliamentary democracy
important services. The government – owned This is where people elect members of
companies are called statutory corporations or parliament (MPs), and then MPs choose one
para – stately corporations which include: of them to become a prime minister or
 Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) president who forms the cabinet to assist
him/her running the country in the executive
 Central Region Water Board (CRWB)
branch. The president and his/her vice
 University of Malawi (UNIMA)
remain in power until the next elections as
 Mzuzu University (MZUNI) described by the constitution. However, they
 Air Malawi can resign when they are incompetent before
 Agricultural Development and Marketing the next elections when they lose support of
Corporation (ADMARC) the parliament though a vote of no
 Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS) confidence.
However, the standards of the social services are The following countries have parliamentary
not of high quality as compared to capitalist democracy: UK, Italy, Canada, Spain, Israel
system. and India.
Types of democracy b. Presidential democracy

There are two main types of democracy namely: This is where people elect a president and
a. Direct democracy members of parliament at once. This is
b. Indirect democracy found in Malawi, Zambia, USA, Kenya,
Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and
Direct democracy South Africa.
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c. Combined presidential and The principles of good governance are:

parliamentary democracy  Transparency: this means that the leaders
This is where president and members of should do things in an open manner so that
parliament are chosen by people while on the citizens should know. It should promote
the other hand, a prime minister is chosen by free access to information. This is made
the members of parliament, e.g. France. possible when the media highlight some of
the issues that are happening in government.
Roles of opposition political parties in  Accountability: this means that the leaders
democracy are held answerable for the actions they
In multi –party democracy, the political parties make. They need to make decisions and
contest in elections in order for people to choose actions that reflect the will and wishes of
the party which will form government. those who elected them into power so as to
The parties that lost in elections are called build public trust. When they fail to do the
opposition political parties while the party will of the people they are voted out of
which won the elections and is currently running power.
the country is called the ruling party. The  Observance of human rights
ruling party forms the government. It is  Respect of a rule of law
responsible for making important decisions  Holding regular free and fair elections
about the running the affairs of the whole  Citizens‟ participation in public affairs.
country.
 Multi – party political system
 Limited terms of office of president
Therefore, the opposition parties have the
 Separation of powers among the three
following roles in democracy:
a. They monitor the actions of the government branches of government such as executive,
so that the rule of law is respected by the legislature and judiciary.
government.  Tolerance of the views of those in majority
b. They criticize the ruling parties where it and minority.
goes wrong.  Controlling abuse of power
c. They are a mouthpiece of ordinary citizens.
They express the opinion of those people Roles of citizens in promoting good
they represent. governance
d. They present alternative programmes and  Standing as candidates in national and local
candidates. This means that they provide elections.
people with a choice from among political  Participating in public debate and
parties, policies and programmes. discussions.
 Attending community and civic meetings.
Principles of good governance  Performing voluntary work to develop their
Good governance refers to a system of rules, communities.
processes and structures that brings about equity  Organizing peaceful demonstrations.
and efficiency and prosperity. Leaders must  Expressing their opinions through the media.
balance up their style of ruling where there is  Joining the labour unions, community
equality in the distribution of resources and groups and business associations.
opportunities.
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UNIT 29
PEOPLE AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Success criteria
1. Explain the terms human population and environment
2. Describe the relationship between human population and environment
3. Explain the term human population growth
4. Explain factors that influence human population
5. Describe trends in population growth.
6. Define the terms „responsible‟ and „irresponsible‟ human practices towards environmental
resources.
7. Outline irresponsible human practices towards environmental resources.
8. Explain the importance of natural resources to the individual and the community.
9. Explain the effects of population growth on resources.
Human population and the environment Human population growth

The term „human population‟ refers to the Population growth refers to an increase in the
number of people occupying a given area at a number of people living in the area. Population
given time. growth has a direct impact on the environment.
Environment means whatever surrounds us.
There are: Factors that influence population growth
a. Physical environment a. Migration
 Mountains This is the movement of people from one
 Hills place to another place. Emigration means
 Rivers leave the country for another country
 Forests whereas immigration refers to people
 Valleys entering the country. Immigration leads to
population growth as more people keep on
b. Human or social environment entering the country.
 Buildings
 Roads and bridges b. Natural increase
 Industries  This is when birth rate exceeds death
rate or there are more births than
 Cultures
deaths. As a result, population keeps on
increasing.
Relationship between human population and
 Birth rate is the number of births out
environment
of every 1000 people in a particular
 It sustains the survival of human
year in a particular country.
population, e.g. water and air
 On the other hand, death rate or
 It influences how people live there, e.g.
mortality rate refers to number of
near lakes or mountains.
deaths per 1000 people in a country
 It improves people`s living standards.
 Water also brings a lot of problems to Reasons for higher birth rate than death
human beings such as waterborne disease,
 Medical innovations
flooding and drought.
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Development of some drugs helps to combat b. Responsible human practices towards

killer diseases and prolong life. This has environment on forestry
greatly reduced death rate.  Planting trees where there are no trees or
where trees are cut.
 Scientific and technological advancement  Planting trees on steep slopes, marginal
in agriculture and transport land and river banks.
This has ensures availability of nutritious  Planting trees in disaster prone areas.
food to different people.  Establishing woodlots.
 High fertility rate c. Responsible human practices towards

This refers to the total number of children environment on water and air
that a woman of child bearing age expects to  Proper disposal of household, industrial
have. wastes and sewage in order to prevent
them from polluting water.
Factors for high fertility rate are:  Using clean source of energy. For
1. Early marriage among women example, using hydro – electricity for
2. Remarriage after divorce or cooking instead of firewood in order to
3. Remarriage after widowhood avoid deforestation.
 Reducing air pollution that come from
c. Culture open burning garbage, plastics and other
Culture influences population growth in a substances that produce toxic gases into
number of ways as follows the air.
 Children are regarded as a source of  Practising good land husbandry
wealth practices to reduce the speed of the
 Children are regarded as a source of runoff. The runoff leads to silting of
cheap labour. water bodies.
 Cultural practices lead to population  Reducing the release of greenhouse
growth, e.g. hyena practice gases that cause global warming.
Responsible human practices towards d. Responsible human practices towards

environment on: environment on fish
a. Responsible human practices towards  Making laws against industries
environment on land responsible for water pollution.
 Practising good land husbandry  Proper waste disposal by not dumping
practices by allocating each piece of wastes in water.
land to its use in order to maximize  Protecting water bodies from pollution
production. by inspecting the inland water.
 Practising agro – forestry. This is the  Making international agreement on
growing of arable crops together with fisheries.
trees on the same land.  Using fishing nets with large holes or
 Practising crop rotation to improve soil large mesh size.
fertility.
 Use of quota system to regulate amount
 Practising afforestation. of fish caught.
 Making tie – ridges or box ridges that  Introducing fish farming.
hold water and reduce the speed of  Observe closed season for fishing to
runoff. allow fish to breed and multiply.
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 Forbid indiscriminate fishing by c. Water and air

checking the size of fish brought into  Careless dumping of industrial and
port and warn or fine indiscriminate domestic wastes and sewage.
fishers.  Using poisonous substances for fishing.
 Civic education on proper fishing  Smoking in public place.
methods, negative effects of polluting  Burning tyres and garbage.
water and management of fisheries.  Excessive emission of poisonous gases
from industries and car exhaust.
e. Responsible human practices towards  Urinating and defecating on open
environment on wildlife ground and water.
 Culling excessive animals to reduce  Loud noise from industries and cars.
animal population.
 Establishing more game reserves and d. Fish and wildlife
national parks.  Indiscriminating fishing by using mesh with
 Making and enforcing laws that prevent small mesh size.
the use of wildlife resources and  Introducing non – indigenous fish and water
poaching. weeds.
 Preventing wild fires that destroy habitat  Destruction or cultivating in fish breeding
of wildlife. areas, e.g. practicing land reclamation in
 Preventing encroachment in protected wetlands.
areas.  Using destructive fishing methods that
 Charcoal burning must be monitored pollute water. Some people use poisonous
and banned. Offenders must be herbs for catching fish that also kill all
penalized. aquatic animals alongside fish.
Irresponsible human practices towards Environmental pollution

environment Pollution refers to contaminating environment
a. Land with dangerous substances that make the
 Cultivating on steep slopes. environment unsafe for living.
 Cultivating along river banks. Pollution also refers to the releasing of
 Overstocking that leads to overgrazing. dangerous substances into the environment.
Overstocking means placing too much There are water, land and air pollution. These
grazing animals on a piece of land that are caused by:
in turn destroys all vegetation on the  Improper waste disposal.
land.  Smoking in public.
 Cultivation on marginal land that also  Poisoning water as a form of fishing.
causes soil erosion.  Excessive emission of poisonous gases from
 Mono – cropping which leads to soil cars and industries.
degradation. This means growing the
same type of crop on the same piece of Importance of natural resources
land successively for so many years  Land provides minerals.
 Land supports agricultural activities.
b. Forestry  Wildlife is source of food.
 Careless cutting down of trees.  Vegetation is habitat of wild life.
 Setting bushfires.  Forests provide timber and firewood.
 Charcoal burning.  Water is needed for domestic and industrial
purposes.
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 Fish provide income after selling.  Depletion of water reservoirs due to

 Wildlife attracts tourists who bring foreign increased demand.
currency into the country.  Scarcity of safe and clean water for people
 Vegetation and animals matter are used as and animals.
raw materials for producing medicine.  Encroaching into the protected areas due to
shortage of land for settlement and farming.
Effects of population growth on natural  Overfishing and destruction of breeding
resources grounds for fish.
 Deforestation. People cut down trees in  Increased use of fuel wood and fossil fuels
order to open new land for settlement, which cause air pollution.
farming and other developments.  Spreading of waterborne and airborne
 Shortage of land for farming. diseases.
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UNIT 30
GOVERNMENT POLICY ON THE ENVIRONMENT
Success criteria
1. Explain the policy of the government towards the environment
2. Evaluate the government policy on the environment
Policy refers to a set of plan or actions agreed on  Integrating environmental concerns into
by government, political parties or other groups national, regional and district planning
with an aim of solving a certain problem in the systems
country.  Developing and implementing systems and
guidelines for assessing environmental
The government developed National projects and programmes
Environmental Policy (NEAP) due to concern  Undertaking training programmes to
with the deterioration of the country`s natural develop capacity for environmental
resources and the environment. The government management
engaged the private sector, non – governmental  Increasing environmental education and
organisations, local communities and public awareness
government institutions to come up with  Empowering local communities in the
solutions to the problems that the environment is management of natural resources through
facing. community participation
The policy contains the framework against  Involving the private sector and non –
which all environmental policies of different governmental organisations in all aspects of
sectors will be reviewed against. planning and management of the natural
resources and the environment
The main aims of the National Environmental
Policy (NEAP) Specific goals of the policy
 Promoting the efficient utilization and  Ensure for all persons resident now in
management of our natural resources Malawi and the future; an environment
 Facilitating rehabilitation and management suitable for their health and well – being
of essential ecosystems and ecological  Promote efficient utilization and
processes management of the country`s natural
 Enhancing public awareness on the resources and encourage, where possible,
importance of sound environmental long – term self – sufficiency in food, fuel
management wood and other energy requirements
 Promoting cooperation between  Facilitate the restoration, maintenance and
government, local communities, women enhancement of the ecosystems and
groups, non – governmental organizations ecological processes essential for the
and the private sector in the management functioning of the biosphere and prudent use
and utilization of the natural resources and of renewable resources
the environment  Enhance public awareness on the
importance of sound environmental
The Strategies for achieving the aims understanding of different environmental
 Strengthening the institutional mechanisms issues and participation in addressing them
 Reviewing or even enacting environmental  Promote cooperation with other
laws governments and relevant international and
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regional organizations, communities, non –  Rational and secure tenure over land and
governmental organizations and the private resources is a fundamental requirement for
sectors in the management and protection of sustainable natural resource management
the environment.  Some of the Malawi`s natural resources such
as Lake Malawi, National Parks and Forest
The guiding principles of the policy Reserves are very much affected by the
 Every person has a right to clean and healthy activities of her neighbours and those of the
environment and a duty to maintain and region. This calls for concerted efforts in
enhance the environment preparation of policies and plans for their
 Children should be sensitized in utilization, management and conservation to
environmental issues with a view to involve ensure regional development.
them in the conservation, protection and  Ensuring that individuals are given
management of the environment as future incentives for sustainable use and
custodians environmental protection
 Women should be closely involved in  Creation of institutional mechanisms needed
policy, program and project design and to implement the policy
implementation to enhance their role in  Enacting laws for the implementation of the
natural resource use and management policy
activities  Ensuring that national, regional and district
 The use of renewable natural resources development plans integrate environmental
should be sustainable for the benefit of the concerns and ensure sensitivity to local
present and future generations concerns and needs
 Malawi`s economy is highly dependent on  Develop a system of developmental impact,
natural resources. If these are depleted, long audit and monitoring
– term food security and sustainable  Increase public education and awareness on
economic growth will be seriously affected the need for sustainable use of natural
 The participation of the private sector, resources
NGOs and CBOs is important in protection,  Mobilize initiatives and resources in the
conservation, management and sustainable private sector, NGOs and CBOs to achieve
utilization of Malawi`s natural resources sustainable environmental management
 Community based management and revenue  Integrate gender, youths and children`s
sharing from the sustainable utilization of concerns in environmental planning
natural resources on customary and public decisions at all levels
lands will be encouraged  Ensure the growth of the population promote
 Regulation will be complemented by social urban and rural housing planning services
and economic incentives to influence that provide all inhabitants with a healthy
behaviour of individuals and organisations environment does not lead to environmental
to invest in sustainable environmental degradation
management  Minimize the bad impact of climate change
 Regular and accurate assessment, and reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas
monitoring and dissemination of information emission
on environmental conditions will be assured  Conserve, manage and utilize sustainably
 Tradeoff between economic development the country`s biodiversity
and environmental degradation will be  Promote sustainable use of land resources in
minimized through the use of environmental Malawi
impact assessment and natural resource
monitoring Some weaknesses that make the policy fail to
achieve its goals
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 Lack of efficient funds and resources by the  Rapid population growth that exerts too
government and the private sector to much pressure on natural resources and
implement the policy lead to their depletion
 Lack of sufficient public education and  Lack of diversification of economic
awareness of the policy and the need for activities that can replace economic
sustainable use of natural resources activities that lead to depletion of the
 Lack of sufficient legislation to deal with environment such as charcoal burning
those involved in activities that lead to  Limited private sector participation in the
environmental degradation implementation of the policy due to lack of
knowledge of the existence of the policy
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UNIT 31
INTERDEPENDENCE AMONG NATIONS
Success criteria
1. Identify forms of interdependence among the nations
2. Describe ways in which nations are interdependent on each other
3. Explain the importance of interdependence among the nations.
Interdependence means supporting or needing  Helps countries to combat international

the assistance of each other. Countries assist problems
each other in various ways.  Terrorism
 Disease outbreaks such as ebola and
Ways how countries depend on each other HIV/AIDS
 Trade or economy: countries exchange  Aeroplane hijacking
goods that they could not produce on their  Money laundering
own.  Drug trafficking
 Communications: USA and Russia  Human trafficking
launched satellites that aid international
communications. Regional organisations
 Transport: landlocked countries depend on a. Common Market for East and South
countries that have ports for handling their African States (COMESA)
exports and imports It has membership of 19 countries including
 Education: many people go to other Malawi. It was established in Lusaka,
countries for further education and others Zambia in 1994.
do researches.
 Health; countries assist each other in Responsibilities and functions of
combating disease outbreaks such as COMESA
HIV/AIDS and ebola.  To promote free trade within the region
 Social or cultural: countries share skills, amongst the member states. Trade is
machinery and exchange visits in form of free from tariffs and other taxes across
tourism. Visits promote international the borders.
understanding among countries.  Improving transport and communication
 Political and security: through peace  Supporting the Court of Justice to settle
keeping initiatives, countries help in dispute
resolving armed conflicts.
b. Southern African Development
Importance of interdependence among Community (SADC)
nations  Originally it was called African
 Improving efficiency by country`s Development Coordination Conference
specialization in different fields in terms of (SADCC) and then in 1992 changed to
manufacturing. Southern African Development
 It is cost saving as countries are able to Community (SADC).
obtain goods they cannot produce on their  Its member states include Malawi,
own at cheaper cost. Zambia, Tanzania, Angola, Zimbabwe,
South Africa, Botswana, Swaziland,
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Lesotho, Namibia, DR Congo, and of 16 member states in West Africa. Its

Mozambique. Madagascar was removed headquarters is in Lagos, Nigeria.
from SADC. Its member state has a
specific role to play within the Objectives of ECOWAS
organisation, e.g. Malawi is responsible  To encourage economic, social and
for forestry, fisheries and wildlife while cultural development in West Africa.
Zimbabwe looks at food security.  To promote development in industry,
 In 2000, SADC was initiated as a free energy and agriculture and natural
trade area. Free trade area is a region resources.
where trade is free from trade barriers  To improve interregional
like tariffs. This free trade area included communications and transport.
that of COMESA that came up with the  Promoting peace and security within the
Africa Free Trade Area Zone that region through mutual non – aggression
comprises 26 member states. approach.
Objectives of SADC e. African Union (AU)

 Strengthening the historical, social and  It was established on 26 May, 2001 in
cultural links between the people of Addis Ababa and launched in South
Southern Africa. Africa as a replacement of OAU on 9th
 Promoting economic growth, reduce July, 2002.
poverty and improve the quality of life  It has a membership of 54 countries
of the people in the area. except Morocco.
 Promoting peace and security.  All heads of member states make what
 Developing political values. is known as Assembly of the African
 Ensuring the sustainable use of natural Union which is on top of decision
resources. making assisted by the administrative
 Encouraging employment opportunities. body.
 It also comprises 265 members of Pan
c. Council of South African Football African Parliament who are elected by
(COSAFA) the national parliaments.
 It is an affiliate of Confederation of
African Football (CAF) and Federation Objectives of AU
Internationale de Football Association.  To accelerate the political and socio-
 It has 14 football playing member states. economic integration of the continent.
COSAFA organizes football trophies  To defend the sovereign territorial
run by the committee of seven members integrity and independence of its
who are elected from the football member states.
governing bodies of their nations. For  To achieve greater unity and solidarity
example, the president of Football between the countries and people of
Association of Malawi, Walter Africa.
Nyamilandu – Manda was once elected  To promote and defend African
as executive committee member of common positions on issues of interest
COSAFA in 2008. to the continent and its people.
 To encourage international cooperation,
d. Economic Community for West African taking due account of the Charter of the
States (ECOWAS) United Nations and the Universal
 It was established in 1975 and began its Declaration of Human Rights.
operations in 1977. It has a membership
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 To promote peace, security and stability Its responsibilities are to discuss

of the continent. current issues within the Eurozone
 To promote democratic principles of and and supervising the European
institutions, popular participation and Commission.
good governance.  There is an executive branch called
European Commission which is
Some of the AU structures hosted in responsible for making policies and
different countries are: presenting them to the council of
a. New Partnership for African Ministers.
Development (NEPAD) and Pan –  There is a Court of Justice that
African Parliament are hosted in settles disputes in the Eurozone.
Midrand, South Africa.
b. The African Commission on Human and g. African Development Bank Group
People‟s Rights in Banjul, Gambia. (AfDB)
It is a multilateral development finance
f. European Union (EU) institution established in 1964 in order to
 It is apolitical and economic facilitate the social and economic
organisation formed by a membership of development of African countries. Its
28 European countries. Formerly, it was headquarters is in Tunis, Tunisia but it was
established as European Economic originally established in Abidjan, Ivory
Commission (EEC) and then changed to Coast, due to war it was then moved to
become EU in 1993. Tunisia.
 Countries that formed the EU work Its membership extends to non – African
together in some aspects of political, countries, such as USA which has 6.5% of
social and economic development and the total voting shares.
form a Eurozone.
 People from the European member AfDB comprises three entities namely:
countries of Eurozone received a o African Development Bank
European citizenship. Within a o The African Development Fund
Eurozone, there are things which are o The Nigerian Trust Fund
done in common to all citizens and
governments: Duties of AfDB
 People who hold an EU passport can o Funding important development
move freely within a Eurozone. projects in African countries in order
 People can move and live anywhere to promote socio-economic
without any problem. development and eradicate poverty.
 There is a common market. This o To promote fight against poverty and
means that goods can move freely improve living conditions on the
without duties and tariffs within the continent by promoting investment of
region. public and private capital in projects
 There are common policies on trade, and programs that are likely to
agriculture, fisheries, transport and contribute to economic development
trade. in the region
 They set up common European o Providing financial support (in form
Currency (European monetary of loans but small interest rate) to
Union) called Euro in 1999. African governments and private
 There is European Parliament companies that invest in regional
composed of 700 elected members. member countries.
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h. International organisations under the iii. To promote human rights, culture,

United Nations education and humanitarian aid.
 United Nations was formed after the
end of the Second World War in 1945. It  International Court of Justice (ICJ)
replaced the League of Nations in order It is responsible for settling disputes
to maintain peace and provide a involving countries. It is made up of 15
platform for dialogue as well as solving judges who are elected by the General
some of the world problems such as Assembly.
poverty, violation of human rights,
corruption, human trafficking, terrorism  Security Council
and other environmental challenges. It is responsible for ending conflicts by
 There are 193 member states. sending peacekeeping troops, imposing
 Its headquarters is in New York, USA. sanctions or embargos on countries that
Other regional offices are in Geneva, resist adhering to peace keeping policies. It
Nairobi and Vienna. has 15 members comprising of 5 permanent
members (e.g. USA, China, Russia, France
Duties of the UN and UK) with veto power and 10 temporary
 To protect environment members elected by the General Assembly
 To promote development for two – year terms.
 To promote respect for human rights
and democracy  Trusteeship Council
 To reduce poverty It is responsible for administering trust
territories. It is no longer active now since in
The UN has six organs 1994 when Palau attained its independence.
 General Assembly
It is a yearly session where all member a. Specialized Organisations and Agencies
nations are represented by the elected heads of UN
of states. Every member state has one vote i. World Food Programme (WFP)
on important matters arising in the UN It combats hunger and malnutrition by
regardless of status. Two – third vote providing food and works to people and
decides the decision. families who cannot support themselves.
 Secretariat
It is the administrative branch of the UN ii. United Nations Educational,
which is headed by the Secretary General. It Scientific and Cultural Organisation
is responsible for the general administration (UNESCO)
of the UN such as organizing conferences, Its main purpose is to promote the
writing minutes, reports, preparing budget world peace by promoting international
plans, information and translation. collaboration through education,
 Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) science and culture.
It is concerned with world‟s socio-economic
issues. It has 53 members who are elected iii. United Nations Children‟s Education
by the General Assembly for a three – year Fund (UNICEF)
term. iv. It provides humanitarian and
developmental aid to children and
The duties of this organ are: mothers. Its initial works were to
i. To raise general standards of living. provide emergency food and health
ii. To solve economic, social and health care to victims of war in developing
problems. countries during the World War II.
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 Working against poverty and injustice

v. World Health Organisation (WHP)  Promoting tolerance and equality
Its main concern is on international  Promoting fair trade amongst countries
public health. It was created to  Promoting democracy and good governance
eradicate smallpox. Currently, it  Promoting people centred and sustainable
focuses on the following areas: development
 HIV and AIDS
 Malaria and tuberculosis The Federation of International de Football
 Sexual and reproductive health Association
 Food security and health eating  It is responsible for organizing international
 Occupational health football and beach soccer which was
 Drug and substance abuse established on 21st May, 1904 in Paris,
 Development of reporting, France. The founding members of FIFA
publication and networking were national associations of Belgium,
Denmark, France, Netherlands, Spain,
World Customs Organisation Sweden and Switzerland. As of now, it has
It has a membership of 180 customs 209 national football associations.
administrations worldwide. Its headquarters is in  FIFA Congress is composed of
Brussels, Belgium. representatives of affiliated national
It was formed in 1952 with the following
associations where each national association
objectives:
has one vote.
o To promote customs administration for
 There are six football confederations
national development through revenue
recognized by FIFA that organize and
collection.
oversee the games in each continent, e.g.
o Promoting international trade and
CAF. Women‟s football is also included.
community protection by combating
 On the monthly basis, FIFA football ranking
counterfeiting
o Collection of world trade statistics. is updated based on the performance of
national teams in competitions, qualifiers
and friendly matches.
The Commonwealth of Nations
It is a grouping of 53 sovereign states which are
former territories of the British Empire. Some Ways in which International Organisations
countries which were not the British Empire Promote International Cooperation
joined the Commonwealth like Rwanda,  They promote and strengthen trade amongst
Vanuatu, Cameroun and Mozambique. countries.
It is an organisation for English speaking  They create free trade area by removing
countries. The British Queen is the head. tariffs on goods within the customs union.
Commonwealth Heads of Governments is the  They provide military assistance to end
main forum for decision making that meet every conflicts and terrorism.
two years. The member states share common  They provide economic assistance to needy
values in terms language, history, culture, law, countries.
education and sports.  They organize sporting activities, such as
the World Football Cup.
Duties of the Commonwealth  They help combating environmental and
 To fight against racial discrimination health problems in the world.
 To promote the world peace  They deal with cross – border criminal and
 Promoting arts and culture terror acts.
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UNIT 33
TAXATION
Success criteria
1. Identify types of taxation.
2. Describe the major principles of taxation.
3. Explain the significance of taxation in national development.
4. Identify the rights and responsibilities of taxpayers.
Types of taxes value addition. It applies to both domestic

Tax is a legally imposed financial contribution and imported goods and services. It is an
to government revenues. It is charged on indirect tax.
individual persons, property, income and d. Payroll tax: it is charged on salaries and
transactions at a prevailing rate. Since tax wages of employees. It is taken out before
payment is compulsory, failing to pay leads to income is distributed to the individuals in
economic penalties or being arrested. exchange for work was done.
There are two main types of taxes that include: e. Capital gains tax: it is charged on the
1. Direct tax profit realized on a sale of a non –
It paid directly to the government by inventory asset purchased at a lower price
individual taxpayers. It is levied on suck as stocks, bonds and real estate.
individual taxpayer‟s income charged at the f. Estate duty: it is calculated on the
source. Examples of direct tax are income deceased estates. It is calculated on the
tax and estate duty. amount of wealth at the time of death.
g. Fringe benefits tax: it is charged on fringe
2. Indirect tax benefits of an employee such as soft loans.
They are collected by intermediaries who For example, when an employee gets a soft
then turn the proceeds to the government. It loan from their company at an interest
is charged on business activities such lower than a commercial rate, the resulting
imports and exports as well as domestic interest difference is considered to be a
businesses like wholesalers, retailers as well saving and therefore a fringe benefit and is
as traders. taxable at the lowest rate ruling on the
Indirect tax is paid by consumers. Example formal market for loans.
of Indirect is VAT which is included to the h. Provisional tax: it is an advance tax
price of goods. Traders may raise the price estimated at the beginning of a year of
of commodities since they include Vat to the assessment and payable by every business
price of commodities. After sales, traders person. A tax payer determines the
send tax to government. provisional tax payable during the year of
assessment by estimating his/her tax
Type of taxes levied in Malawi reliability. It is payable in four installments
and it is upon the tax payer to decide on
a. Income tax: it is collected from workers how much to pay at each date.
through PAYE (pay as you earn) method i. Assessment tax: it is tax paid by limited
based on the amount of salary that they get. companies, traders and business partners
b. Property tax: it is paid by anyone who and it is determined by tax assessment on
owns property like land. persons in business to show the balance of
c. Value added tax (VAT) or Surtax: it is tax payable.
calculated on goods and services for their
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j. Withholding tax: it is an advance tax  Revenue collected from payment for

which is deducted from any payment on the use of public services and
persons who cannot be traced after facilities.
payment is done. It applies to royalties,  Levies: they are charges imposed to
rents, payments to traders and institutions raise money for specific activities.
for supplies under tender or any contract, Levies are imposed on fuel are:
commissions, payment for carriage and  Road levy for construction and
haulage, payment to contractors and sub – maintenance of roads.
contractors in the building and other  Malawi Bureau of Standards Levy that
products, payments by public supports the operations of MBTS.
entertainments, bank interests, fees and  Rural Electrification Levy for
payment for casual labour or services. installation and extension of electricity
k. Non – resident tax: it is charged on non – into the rural areas.
citizens of Malawi on any cash generating  Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority
or any income arising from source within Levy to support the operations of
the country. MERA.
l. Business profit tax: it collected from the  Safety Net Levy that goes to the central
profits that businesses make in Malawi and government.
when the business makes a loss, a tax is  Price Stabilization Fund Levy used to
carried forward and then claimed later on. lower the prices of important goods and
m. Customs duty: it is charged on the value of services so that people can easily afford
imports and exports, more especially at an them.
immigration point.
n. Excise duty: it is charged on selected Malawi Revenue Authority (MERA)
goods in order to regulate or limit their It is a government agency which was established
entry into the country such as beer and by The Act of Parliament in 1998. Before that,
cigarettes. The Department of Customs and Excise, and
o. Non – tax revenues Income Tax was doing the work of MERA. It is
These are other sources of government‟s responsible for the assessment, collection and
revenue other than taxes. They include: accounting for tax revenues.
 Foreign grants MERA is headed by the Commissioner General
 Loans obtained from lending who operates under the supervision of The
institutions and other governments Minister of Finance.
 Revenue from state owned enterprises
 Interest or profit from funds invested 1. Customs and Excise Division
by the state It is responsible for:
 Revenue from sales of state assets a. Administration and enforcement of
 Rents , concessions and royalties Customs and Excise Act.
collected from private corporations for b. Collection of Import and Excise Duty
resource extraction or utilisation and Import VAT.
contracts c. Protection of the community from entry
 Receipts from court fines and and exit of prohibited goods and
penalties paid for breaking regulations facilitates trade.
 Fees for issuance of licences or
permits, such as passports, driving 2. Domestic Tax Division : Responsible for
licences, vehicle registrations, mining a. Collection of direct income taxes from
licences, work permits and individuals and companies.
broadcasting licences.
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b. Collection of domestic VAT and People sharing the same economic activities
domestic excise tax. are subjected to the tax liabilities.
 Principle of neutrality: taxes should not be
Functions of Malawi Revenue Authority designed to give favourable tax treatment to
(MRA) any one group or sector over another.
 Assessment, collection and receipt of  Principle of certainty: a taxpayer must
specified revenue. know how much tax he/she must pay, when
 Promotion of voluntary compliance to the to pay and way of paying it.
highest degree possible.  Principle of restricted or no exemptions:
 Improvement of the standard of service tax exemptions must be for specific cases
given to taxpayers with a view to improving such as to encourage the investors and
efficiency and effectiveness and maximizing during limited periods only.
revenue.  Principle of simplicity: tax language must
 Counteracting fraud and other forms of in simple terms, easy to be understood by all
fiscal evasion. taxpayers.
 Advising the Minister of Finance on matters  Principle of impartiality: all people who
of revenue policy and administration and are in the same positions should pay tax. For
collection of revenue. example, e.g. paying tax through beer.
 Subject to the stated tax laws, performing  Principle of adjustability: a good tax
any other duties related to revenue as the system should be adjustable following the
Minister of Finance may direct. changes in monetary base, income or profit
and changes in policy.
Principles of taxation  Principle of productivity: a good tax
The four main purposes of taxation (or the 4 should encourage productivity. Too high tax
“R”s of taxation) reduces profits of a business.
 Principle of adequacy: it ensures that there
must be large tax base to improve the Importance of taxation
government‟s revenue for the easy provision a. Redistribution of wealth from the rich to the
of social services. poor.
 Principle of broad basing: taxes should be b. Encourage or discourage certain activities
spread over the entire national population in Tax is tool for:
all sectors of economy in order to reduce  Preventing foreign industries from
burden on few individuals. competing with domestic investors by
 Principle of convenience: tax should be imposing high taxes.
deducted with the least amount of  Discouraging the importation of some
inconvenience of a taxpayer. It must be goods which are undesirable.
convenient for the taxpayer.  It facilitates trade by removing or
 Principle of earmarking: taxes from reducing duty on certain commodities.
specific sources should be directed to c. Expenditure control
specific purposes only when there is a direct  It is introduced in order to regulate the
cost and benefit link between the tax and level of spending in the economy.
source and the expenditure, e.g. fuel taxes d. Raising revenue of government
are directed to road maintenance. Taxes are source of government‟s revenue
 Principle of efficiency: tax collection which is used for funding important
efforts should not cost a high percentage of development projects such as road
tax revenues. construction, provision of social services
 Principle of equity and fairness: taxes and making important payments such as
should be collected using fair procedures. civil servants‟ salaries.
Page 85 of 87
 To complain, object or appeal when you are

The challenges facing the taxation system in not satisfied with your tax liability.
Malawi  Be treated with respect, impartiality, fairness
 Lack of adequate taxpayer civic education and equity.
which results in lack of compliance.  Apply for help when you cannot pay in full.
 Small tax base results in high tax rates.  Challenge the decisions made by MRA.
 Lack of taxation on the informal sector,  Seek relief from spouse‟s debt.
more especially small scale businesses that
operate in rural areas. Responsibilities of taxpayer
 Tax avoidance, fraud and evasion. Some  To register tax and obtain tax identification
businesses avoid paying VAT by not issuing number and notify MRA of any changes in
receipts to their customers. your tax details.
 Corruption by MRA officials and the law  To be honest and truthful in declaring your
enforcers which reduces the government‟s tax liability.
revenue base.  To be cooperative and assist MRA officials
in tax matters.
Taxpayers‟ rights and responsibilities  Keep sufficient records and books for the
A taxpayer is an individual or an entity that has required retention period.
the duty to pay taxes to the government. It is  Pay tax as assessed by MRA on time.
important that the taxpayers must know their  Provide relevant records or documents such
rights and responsibilities for them to understand as receipts, profit and loss statements,
well more about tax administration and balance sheets, special accounts as required
collection. by the law.
 Understand and appreciate the risks of non
Rights of taxpayer – compliance or tax evasion.
They have right to:
 To report about tax evasion to MRA, police
 Be informed and assisted at voluntary
or any other government agency.
compliance and enforcement rights.
 To know your tax obligations in advance. Penalties for failure to pay taxes
 To pay no more than the correct amount of o Goods may be seized.
tax and to be refunded for any excess o Goods may be forfeited.
amount paid. o Detention and disposal of seized goods.
 Privacy and confidentiality. The taxpayers‟‟ o Imprisonment.
information should be treated with
confidentiality (secrecy).
.
Page 86 of 87
REFERENCES
Agabu, Y. (2014). Social Studies Students` Book 1. Blantyre: Dzuka Publishing Company
Betemeni, FW, (2001). Social Studies Students` Book 1. Blantyre: Dzuka.
Betemeni, FW, (2001). Social Studies Students` Book 2. Blantyre: Dzuka.
MoEST, (2013). Malawi Senior Secondary School Teaching Syllabus for Social Studies. Domasi: MIE
Namate, D and Mtunda, F (2000). Malawi Junior Secondary Social Studies. Blantyre: Macmillan

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JCE SOCIAL

UNIT 1 FAMILY ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2

 Urbanization and high cost of living  Washing clothes

Large family size b. Fathers and sons

Types of human rights

 Enter into contract  Right to expression and be held.

Rights of Children Limited and Unlimited Rights

Human rights Responsibilities b. Horizontal application of human rights

A citizen is a member of a national community. citizen and their children become

circumstances. This can either be because

Meaning of civil society  Helping the vulnerable people by providing

MEANING AND TYPES OF EMPLOYMENT

Meaning of employment family. It has the following

repairing, temporary or voluntary  It improves the government‟s revenue

Lack of work ethics of all agree on some work conditions before

MALAWI‟S LABOUR LAWS

Meaning of labour laws Regulations deal with individual contracts

Important needs of the family  Getting employment

POPULATION AND RESOURCES IN THE ENVIRONMENT

Resources are everything which can be used in c. Material resources

Social organisation Importance of Culture

 It promotes unity and cooperation which  Intermarriages among ethnic groups

It was traditionally the responsibility of the  Intermarriages: it brings together people

VARIOUS CULTURES IN AFRICA

East Africa (Kenya)

GENDER BIAS IN MALAWI

Sex is a biological difference between males and  Males

Vital citizenship registration refers to a record  It provides genuine information for

 Causes of death Eligible voters are allowed by law to register

CIVIC RIGHTS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CITIZEN

economic systems) are powerful to

Factors that influence changes in the 1964

 Dr Hastings Kamuzu Banda became the  National flag

1969 – 71 National Flag

should be controlled but they cannot be

PERSONAL FINANCE MANAGEMENT

 It can be issued directly by

maturity of over one year but up to

a. Primary Industry: it produces raw  It is source of government‟s revenue

MORAL AND ETHICAL CODE OF CONDUCT

Ethics refers to one`s ability to difference between  Being humble.

 Frustration: this is the state of being  Seeking guidance and counseling

Ways of preventing moral degradation or Examples of Vices

 Disobedience Some of the moral values required in interpersonal

ADOLESCENCE AND SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT

 Adolescence is the period of human growth

 Expectations from parents and teachers  It encourages deviance behaviours and

GOOD HEALTH AND GROOMING HABITS

Importance of personal hygiene and grooming Good health habits

Justice refers to treatment of a person that is iii. Oppression

JUDICIAL SYSTEMS IN MALAWI

The judicial system is made up of the law courts b. Justices of appeal

4th grade magistrate

LAW AND ORDER

Stress is the natural human response to pressure

 Simplifying bureaucratic procedures in order

iii. Day care centres provide care to small contribute to the

 It ensures that service providers ensure

Government refers to the machinery for d. Military government

Characteristics of dictatorship government  Owners of capital or private business firms

Characteristics of capitalist government Advantages of socialist government

Types of democracy b. Presidential democracy

c. Combined presidential and The principles of good governance are:

PEOPLE AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Jce Social Notes 1&2

Jce Social Notes 1&2