FrontlineSMS @ Africa Gathering 2011

Africa Gathering is a unique platform which allows NGOs, donors, journalists and academics to come together to connect and explore ideas on “positive change in sustainable development, technology, social networking, health, education, environment and good governance in Africa.” The most recent Africa Gathering was hosted at the London-based Guardian building on Monday 20th June 2011. The chosen theme for this event was “New Media Revolutionizing Africa”, and it inspired interesting ideas, insightful discussions and some energetic debates between the presenters and delegates.

Sharath Srinivasan, co-founder of FrontlineSMS:Radio presented at the event  about how simple and adaptable solutions can be the most effective in promoting dialogue and interactive communications in Africa. Sharath argued that new social media’s relevance in Africa hinges on an understanding of context. What is necessary is what Sharath referred to as a ‘pull method,’ understood as the ways in which technology is shaped by those using it.