As has been the case for the last couple of years, one does not have to be physically present during major state functions; they can easily follow proceedings from the comfort of their homes, thanks largely to the spread of social media.
As has been the case for the last couple of years, one does not have to be physically present during major state functions; they can easily follow proceedings from the comfort of their homes, thanks largely to the spread of social media.
It will not be any different today as hundreds converge on Gabiro for the 12th Leadership Retreat that has been firmly entrenched in the calendar. Twitter, Whatsapp and live streaming will be up and running, keeping those not in attendance abreast with happenings.
Social media has influenced our daily lives to the extent that it is impossible to imagine life without it. While it played a front row role in the now famous Arab spring, it is also playing a more sinister role in some Arab spheres: helping to radicalize some youth.
So when our national leaders sit this weekend to chart the country’s way forward, they should keep social media in their sight. Use it to engage with the citizens for positive impact.
They should not shy away from starting and maintaining conversations with the people they represent. With the majority of the population comprising the youth, it is important that leaders find their audiences where they are. And, that is on social media.
They can get their views on issues that affect them and even solutions to their challenges can be crafted together.
With the country investing heavily in IT infrastructure, more youth will have access to communication tools on their finger tips. Let’s harness the opportunity that presents immense potential.