Kony 2012 - Spin taken too far?

I finally watched the video. Yes. THE VIDEO. That got to be watched over 72million times, tweeted by celebrities P. Diddy and Rihanna.


However, this movie is 6 years too late because:

1. The war in Uganda has been over for years.
2. There are no 'invisible children' in Gulu any more, they all went home.
3. This is the second time Americans have given technical assistance to try and catch Kony. That decision was not prompted by the Invisible Children as the claim.
3. Kony is in CAR or Congo running around with about 200 supporters if not less.

I am rational enough to realize when someone is trying to genuinely do good. It is just wrong when you assume that the people who you are trying to help need help and cannot help themselves. The film carries a story that is not being told by the residents of Gulu, but by the Americans!! Yet on the other hand, I believe that the presence of US advisors in this situation is a good thing, because it is important to pass a message to people world over, however little.

I am just of the opinion that the film will provide incredible insight on how to carry out a global marketing campaign to create an instant online community of activists and spread awareness by going viral. So rather than just the content that is totally misplaced and misguided, in my opinion, this video should serve as a 'how-to-guide' for various communications practitioners especially in Charity.

I did learn something.

Still confused? PR is not Journalism

I am honestly dismayed at the job vacancy adverts in the media. Since the 1990s when all Communications Specialists came from Kenya Institute of Mass Communication, we still have to focus and understand that PR is not Mass Communication. I recently made the resolution of not looking at a Job advert twice if it spelt out, "Looking for Journalism/PR degree" in the same sentence!

Fact: PR is more about building relationships. Journalism is about searching for news, editing and writing the story. For me, writing is just a section of what a "Public Relations/Communications Specialist is all about.

I totally agree that a combination of editorial and public relations skills to tell a client's story in credible publicitage is necessary. That is just PR becoming dynamic...mmmmhh.

PR is so much more than just news stories and writing releases. I agree an important part but not the be all and end all. Engaging with your audience is a critical aspect of PR and I can think of very many journalists, past and present, who really do not have those skills. Strategic thinking is another critical aspect and again a simplistic focus on short term news headlines will not achieve the long term goals of good PR.

I stand corrected!

"Do good, maintain a low profile and others will provide." YEAH RIGHT

"Why would an NGO need a communications strategy? Everyone knows they are helping the needy!" That was what one of my friends said to me when I mentioned that I was interested in working for an NGO. Should he be crucified for this high level of ignorance? I guess if he said it to me, there are several who think just like him and difference is, I haven't met them to convince them otherwise.

While in the past, it was viewed as self-serving for non-profit organizations to allocate time and resources to promote understanding and support for their mission and objectives, it is commendable that things are changing. Needless to say, a communication plan is NOT meant for Corporates only...even NGOs need communication plans, which need not be an expensive proposition. Why?

Visibility amongst competition for funds: while sources of funds are getting restricted and diverse, more and more NGOs are seeking funds. Visibility is a critical factor that defines the availability of funds for the projects. there is need for media to reach out to the audience for funds. It is likely that funds disbursement from donors will be dependent on the visibility of the NGO apart from the issues about the nature of their projects and past activities. Ever wonder why so much attention is given to the Kenya Red Cross?

Winning issues: Lobbying has been a tool used by Corporates to influence policy matters. The same can be used by NGOs either independently or collectively in order to bring policy level changes that will strengthen their issues. Change in perception and recognition of the fact that a problem exists is also achieved by using effective and planned communication.

Building credibility: Reinforcing the good work done through the media gives credibility to the NGOs work not only in the eyes of the donors but also in the eyes of the beneficiaries. This raises reputation with the beneficiaries as an organization that understands issues and provides solutions for the issues. Beneficiaries will look at the NGO achievements for their cause leading to a stronger bonding with the not-for-profit organization. It also

Changing stereotypes: Use communication to change stereotype image of the beneficiaries which impacts on the larger society and the cause. You cannot get AIDS/HIV through touching. Help others.

On the loose. . .

Okay, so a year has gone by...so quickly because so much has been happening around me. Resuming work after a year long study leave was one of the greatest challenges, I hardly ever got time to be on the net...enough time, I mean. What with the lack of network *Collymore-the blame is on you* in the remote areas that my former job entailed. I however loved meeting amazing people from Koibatek and Marsabit, though worn out from the hardships they have to endure...how I wish we could all do something. Well, they say good living starts with Water, yet we all take it for granted. TIK (This is Kenya).

Working in Government comms enabled me travel to so many counties that I would never have.Did I mention I quit? After 9 years, I feel that I should leverage my experiences with a new organization. Will it be government...NGO...time will tell. I really miss NWC&PC, good friends, an amazing boss and the best experiences ever...