Technology to change the way Kenyans run for political office

Every five years, the country is glued to the media for news on the election process.

In the past, getting a parliamentary seat was pegged solely on the amount of expendable cash one had to woo the electorate.

Enter technological advancements — Internet access and mobile devices — and this approach is bound to see a radical change. Why?

The battle for the mind has gone high tech and engagement with consumers, in this case the electorate, has gone emotional and interactive.

The growth of social networks, micro blogging, and near real-time communication platforms has meant that the dissemination, sharing and critiquing of information happens at a fraction of the time that was traditionally possible with print, TV and radio.

With over 20 million mobile subscribers in the country and a registered electorate count of over 13 million, this will be a must use channel for players wishing to connect with the electorate.

Through the Internet, one can quickly establish a presence on all major social networks as well as have their own website though which they can push their vision, mission and agenda.

Email newsletters, tweets, wall posts, online adverts, blog posts… you name it, will all start taking centre stage soon.

Mobile phones offer the best opportunities yet, if well executed.

Only last year, the Communications Commission of Kenya clamped down on mobile operators who were flooding subscribers with all manner of marketing messages.

Njihia is CEO of Symbiotic; Twitter - @mbuguanjihia