THE ROLE OF VALUES IN NATIONAL COHESION AND INTEGRATION

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1 THE ROLE OF VALUES IN NATIONAL COHESION AND INTEGRATION 1.0 Introduction The national values enshrined in Article 10 of the new Constitution are critical and core in pursuit of economic, social and political aspirations of Kenyans. In addition, the political pillar of Vision 2030 underscores the need for developing a clear policy framework for national values that affirm the indivisibility of Kenya as a nation. capacity to live together in harmony. The process involves the building of shared values and institutions of interpretation, reducing disparities in wealth and income, and generally enabling Kenyans to have a sense that they are engaged in a common destiny, facing shared challenges, and that they are members of the same country. Therefore, national values are desirable ideals under which Kenyans are to integrate and cohere as a country and pursue political, economic and social development. The national values define the collective identity of Kenyans, who they are, what they believe in, what they stand for and how others perceive and interrelate with them. They are the fundamental beliefs of Kenyans, guiding the actions and behavior of citizens and exerting influence on the way the citizens relate with each other and serve and engage with other communities. On the other hand, national cohesion and integration is a process involving a sense of commitment, and a desire or The National Values The national values for Kenya as enshrined in Article 10 of the New Constitution include: Patriotism, national unity, justice, equity, integrity, good governance, transparency and accountability, hard work and peace. 3.0 Justifications for the National Values Mainstreaming virtuous and ethical behaviour among Kenyan citizens, getting them to live a positive and values-driven life and to hold those who live by such

2 values in high esteem is a major challenge facing Kenya. Despite the levels and qualities of education, knowledge and awareness on positive values, there is apparently more violence, intolerance, corruption, selfishness, tribalism, cronyism, nepotism, lack of integrity, poor work ethics, impunity and low patriotism among Kenyans. In addition, few desirable role models, couches and patriotic Kenyans is blow to the young generation that need modelling into virtuous and ethical citizens. It is in recognition of the fact that this state of affairs has undermined national cohesion and integration, that national values are enshrined in the new Constitution to create a cohesive value based country. The national values strengthen cohesion and integration of Kenyans as well as inculcate a strong desire for patriotism and nationhood. The main objective of national values is to inform and direct Kenyans towards the ethical common good and make every person, as an individual or in community, better and happier Kenyan. The specific objectives of national values are i. To define and underscore the actions, behaviours and interactions of Kenyans as one nation and one people in pursuit of the goals enshrined in the new constitution and Vision ii. To assist in nurturing a just, democratic, ethical, moral, cohesive and integrated nation; iii. To inspire Kenyan social capital towards economic prosperity that enhances and strengthen national cohesion and integration based on values; iv. To transform the country s democratic governance, human dignity, equity and inclusivity in the new political dispensation that promote cohesion and integration among Kenyans; 4.0 Objectives of the National Values 2

3 v. To protect the integrity of the family as a foundation of imparting values and a central unit of the cohesive and integrated Kenyan society. 5.0 Challenges Some of the key challenges that the national values address include: 1. Disintegration of the family as a central unit of society. 2. Intolerance of diversity and exclusion within the society. 3. Erosion of social etiquette and unethical conducts. 4. Bad governance, impunity, Corruption, poor leadership and ineffective social institutions. 5. Diminishing national pride 6. Violence and conflicts as a dispute resolution mechanism. 7. Abuse of human rights and inequitable distribution of resources. 8. Non-pragmatic approach to the education system Poor work ethics and disregard for meritocracy. 6.0 Strategies for Mainstreaming National Values in National Cohesion and Integration The government has put in places various strategies to mainstream national values in Kenyan society to enhance cohesion. They include: i. Constitutional framework, national values and ii. iii. principles of governance are enshrined in the new constitution and the president shall address the republic annually on the measures and progress taken to realise national values. Legal framework, various laws like the Public Officer and Ethics Act (2003), the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act (2003) have been enacted and they are being enforced to inculcate values that will enhance realisation of cohesion and integration. The expansion of the mandate of the ministry of justice, national cohesion and constitution affairs, subsequent creation of the DNC and the National

4 Cohesion and Integration Commission to promote national cohesion and integration is a positive development. 7.0 The Benefits of National Values in National Cohesion and Integration The main role of the National Values is to boost economic, political and social stability, improve institutional effectiveness, strengthen democratic processes and foster a strong national identity as encapsulated in the new constitution and Vision 2030 and consequently augment national cohesion and integration. Some of specific benefits of national values include i. The defining of the collective national identity, describing who we are as Kenyans and what it is that binds us nationalism. together, thus strengthening ii. They enhance promoting productivity and National development by encouraging positive work ethics, equity and human dignity thus fostering Unity, Stability and National cohesion and integration. iii. Promoting better understanding, tolerance of diversity and inclusivity among Kenyan people, a prerequisite for national cohesion and integration. iv. Inherently inform and positively influence governance, leadership, education, patriotism and distribution of national resources to promote cohesion and integration from family level. v. Promote transparency, accountability, trust, perception on Kenyans and hence lead to higher trust government, community and all institutions that promote cohesion and integration. vi. Lead to substantial improvement in the quality of leadership, management practices and utilization and distribution of national resources at all levels of government. 4

5 vii. viii. Enables Kenyans to develop interpersonal and social trust, social norms the strengthened cohesion and integration. Fortify institutions that regulate and coordinate cooperation and collective action for the wellbeing of the country. 8.0 Conclusion The national values are vital in cultivating and fostering national cohesion and integration by developing virtuous citizenry committed to national development. Ultimately, national values will enhance a strong sense of nationhood founded on values. 5