This archive report was first published on 20 June 2020.
Published on June 20, 2020, Safaricom has announced a generous offer to support frontline health workers in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.
The telco has offered to provide 5,500 frontline health workers with free bundles and airtime, allowing them to call and use the internet for free for the next three months.
The offer includes 195 terabytes of data, 10 million voice call minutes, and 33 million SMSs.
According to Safaricom, this initiative is in line with a request by Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe for communication support for the pandemic response teams.
"The initiative, which is part of our commitment to keep the country connected during this period, will see Safaricom provide connectivity resources and airtime to the Ministry of Health, the Covid-19 Emergency Response Fund and front-line health workers both at the national and county levels," Safaricom said in a statement.
As part of the offer, each frontline worker will receive a monthly bundle consisting of 12GB data, 600 voice call minutes, and 2,000 SMSs, topped up to their individual lines. Additionally, 100 Mbps internet connectivity will be provided at Afya House for the National Command and Control Centre.
Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe expressed his gratitude to Safaricom, stating, "As we face this crisis, seamless worry-free communication between the front-line teams, the command centre and their loved ones is crucial. The contribution by Safaricom to support over 5,500 government healthcare workers will go a long way in helping us execute a coordinated national response."
Safaricom chief executive Peter Ndegwa praised the dedication of frontline health workers, saying, "We not only want to appreciate the great work they are doing, but also facilitate their communication as they continue discharging their duties."
This commitment adds to Safaricom's ongoing initiatives, valued at Sh6.5 billion, to support its customers and the country from the negative impact of the pandemic.
