Photo/FILE PNU supporters at a past rally.


 The National Economic Survey 2012 that was released last week projected depressed growth of the economy as a result of political developments as the country prepares for the General Election
Election years are typically viewed as spells of doom for the economy, with the government and the private sector diverting resources to expensive political campaigns and voting processes.
Coming at a time when the economy is suffering as a result of erratic weather, which curtailed the performance of the agricultural sector, and with a projection of depressed rainfall this year, the effect of the elections is expected to be severe.
The 2007 polls are a perfect example. They were followed by a sharp decline in the performance of the economy — down to 1.5 per cent.
This was against the backdrop of constrained agricultural activities as post-election violence took a toll on farming.
But election years do not necessarily mean financial misery for all Kenyans.
As the country prepares to go into the biggest election ever in Kenya, some people and companies are looking forward to high profits.
Whether by printing of branding materials such as T-shirts, banners, posters, flyers, and hats, or enhancing strong digital brands through the Internet, these businesses are counting on the elections to boost their revenues.
Robert Njoroge , Symbion EA Printers Ltd
Started in 2000, the firm has been around for two elections (2002 and 2007), and two constitution referendums (2005 and 2010).
According to the company’s owner, Mr Robert Njoroge, this round of elections is the most promising in terms of business volumes expected as candidates fight for votes.
“This is the biggest ever election to be staged in Kenya and with it comes bigger business opportunities than we have seen in the past.
This is a direct impact of having more people vying for more elective posts as created by the new Constitution,” he said.
In 2002, the company could not stage a good competition since it was too young and had not acquired the right printing machinery. However, in 2007, the company managed to get six clients vying for parliamentary seats.
“The fact that they would also come with the councillors with whom they shared a political party was a plus for us,” says Mr Njoroge.
In total, the company printed campaign tools worth over Sh5 million. But it is this round of elections that holds the key to a turnaround for his business. Mr Njoroge said he had shortlisted at least 18 candidates vying for various positions in the new governing structure.
“We are focusing on positions at the county level since the presidential candidates will definitely choose bigger companies,” he said.
Mr Njoroge is eyeing at least Sh2 million from each client because printing prices have gone up.