This archive report was first published on 6 May 2020.
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, a new wave of misinformation has emerged, linking the 5th Generation (5G) telecommunications network to the spread of the virus.
However, according to Bitange Ndembo, a renowned columnist, the fear surrounding 5G is misplaced. In an article published on May 6, 2020, Ndembo argued that the health risks associated with 5G are unfounded, citing scientific evidence that proves its safety.
"Not only do some people think 5G is dangerous, they actually think it is the cause of the coronavirus," Ndembo wrote. "This is despite every scientist in the world who has actually inspected the coronavirus through a microscope and even sequenced its DNA having seen it for what it is: a biological virus that infects cells and can be transmitted among people."
According to Ndembo, the low levels of radiation emitted by 5G technology are non-ionizing, meaning they have no impact on the human body. He also pointed out that lab tests and real-life tests of existing 5G base stations and mobile phones have shown they are safe beyond any doubt.
"If you have trusted the scientists for the last 20 years and are willing to use 4G and wi-fi (and have probably benefitted from using it), you should trust 5G too (and look forward to benefitting from that too)," Ndembo advised.
Despite the benefits of 5G technology, Ndembo noted that some people are spreading speculative propaganda, undermining its development. He argued that the internet has become indispensable in today's world, and that 5G is necessary to keep up with the increasing demand for high-speed connectivity.
"We need it now in every corner of the country to help students learn in times of the global pandemic," Ndembo emphasized. "The whole industry is working around the clock right now to keep vital internet services going. How would the health, education, emergency services, government and businesses keep running without it?"
Ultimately, Ndembo urged people to welcome 5G and use it for their own competitiveness and to leapfrog their way into the future.
