Africa's Governments and Economies

Jomo Kenyatta

The leader under whom Kenya became independent on December 12, 1963.

Bicameral legislature

A two-chambered legislature introduced by Kenya's new constitution in 2010.

Presidential Democracy

A system in which citizens directly elect their president every five years.

Corruption

A major problem in both Kenya and Nigeria, characterized by politicians taking bribes.

Elections

The process by which citizens vote for president and parliament.

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa

The leader under whom Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960.

Oligarchy

A government structure that South Africa experienced before transitioning to democracy.

National Assembly

The lower house of Parliament in both Nigeria and South Africa, elected by citizens.

Economic Freedom

The ability of citizens to own property and start businesses without excessive government control.

Mixed Economy

An economic system featuring a combination of free market and command economy characteristics.

Apartheid

A former policy in South Africa enforcing racial segregation, ended in 1994.

Industrialized nation

A country with a strong manufacturing and service sector, as seen in South Africa.

Freedoms written into the constitution

Rights guaranteed to citizens, though often not fully enforced in Kenya and Nigeria.

Senate

One of the two houses of Kenya's and Nigeria's bicameral legislature, elected by citizens.

Voting age

Citizens must be 18 years old to vote in elections in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.

Women representation

The underrepresentation of women in government roles across Kenya and Nigeria.

Natural resources

Valuable materials, such as oil and minerals, found in Nigeria that contribute to its economy.

House of Representatives

The counterpart to the Senate in Nigeria's National Assembly, elected by citizens.

Economic policies post-apartheid

Policies aimed at improving the economy of South Africa following the end of apartheid.

Ceremonies and leadership

The president's role in attending national ceremonies and meeting with leaders in Kenya and Nigeria.