Possible Reason Mobile Marketing is Underutilized in Kenya

It’s been more than a decade since cell phones came to Kenya. If you asked me what I think about the decade of mobile communication in Kenya, I would not hesitate to say Kenyan businesses have achieved little in terms of using mobile marketing strategies especially for small and medium businesses in Kenya.

Mobile marketing is using mobile phone technology to promote businesses locally. These efforts include the use of technology such as QR codes for business direction location, mobile promotion campaigns and many other mobile marketing strategies.

        Mobile Marketing QR Code as an Example

Mobile marketing seemingly is one of the most cost effective ways that small local businesses can market their business in Nairobi. It’s worrying to see that although there are a few QR codes I have spotted in local shops, the ordinary mwananchi has no idea what QR codes are and how they can be used.

Comparing Kenya to China where even parking slots can be controlled by QR code mobile technology the trend of adopting technology in Kenya is worrying. Take this example, I can print the QR code below and paste it somewhere out there and anyone who scans it is directed to this website. Try scanning it with your Smartphone and see it directs you to this website.

     Reason Kenyans are not Using Mobile Marketing

If you are keen to hear the common Kenyan phrase ‘You cannot compare Kenya to developed countries like China’ I always differ with this phrase since it does not encourage creativity, innovativeness and inventiveness.

You should promote the culture of telling or teaching other people about technology that is useful. Kenyans should always be ready to embrace new technology that can improve businesses and their day to day life. Lack of knowhow on how to use mobile phones for marketing is a serious obstacle for local businesses owners tapping to the vast potential of mobile marketing. 

About the Author:

I have previously worked with mobile marketing experts and mobile technology evangelists like Mobile Marketing Queen and learnt how to use mobile marketing to promote and market local businesses. Feel free to inquire on how I can help you develop a solid mobile marketing plan for your business, get in touch with me.