The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has embarked on an ambitious review of its Communication Policy and Strategy in a bid to modernize its outreach mechanisms and rebuild stakeholder confidence ahead of future electoral cycles.
Supported by Elgia Afric, the Commission is revising its communication framework to align with emerging trends, technologies, and lessons learned over the years. The review seeks to enhance transparency, address misinformation, and ensure consistent messaging across all platforms.
Speaking during a policy review workshop, Commission Chairperson Erastus Ethekon, who was accompanied by fellow commissioners, said the initiative marks a deliberate step by the Commission to strengthen how it communicates both internally and externally.
“Reviewing the Communication Policy and Strategy at this time is critical. With new technologies, the growing influence of digital platforms, and rising challenges such as misinformation, this revision allows the Commission to strengthen its communication with both internal and external stakeholders,” said Chairperson Ethekon.
He added that a robust communication framework will allow the Commission to anticipate challenges before they escalate while promoting credibility, inclusivity, and unity of purpose within the institution.
On his part, Dr. Alutalala Mukhwana, Chairperson of the Voter Education, Partnerships, Communications, and Stakeholder Engagement Committee, underscored the importance of adapting to the evolving communication landscape.
“For too long, we have relied on a Communication Policy and Strategy from 2013 which is now outdated in today’s fast-evolving digital age. Persisting with this old framework would be like driving the nation’s democratic vehicle into a thick fog at Mai Mahiu with dimmed headlights,” remarked Dr. Alutalala.
He emphasized that the real challenge lies in determining the right moments and channels for the Commission to engage the public effectively.
The new strategy aims to make the IEBC more proactive and transparent in its communication, reinforcing public trust and ensuring all staff move forward with a shared understanding of the Commission’s mission.
As Kenya continues to navigate an era of heightened digital influence and information volatility, the IEBC’s renewed focus on communication could play a pivotal role in safeguarding electoral integrity and strengthening democratic governance.
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