Safaricom PLC will provide communication resources to critical Government healthcare workers for the next three months. the resources are equivalent to 195 terabytes of data, 10 million voice call minutes, and 33 million SMSs. The move comes following a request by Cabinet Secretary of Health, Mutahi Kagwe, for communication support for the pandemic response teams.
The package comprises of monthly Bundle for Frontline Government Healthcare Workers: A monthly bundle consisting of 12GB data + 600 voice call minutes + 2,000 SMSs per month topped up to the individual lines of the COVID-19 frontline workers as identified by the Ministry of Health.
They will also get 100 Mbps Internet Connectivity at Afya House for the National Command and Control Centre in this fight to safeguard our health. While COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund Airtime Support: A one-off bundle consisting of 50GB data + 3,500 voice call minutes + 10,000 SMSs to 15 members to assist in the smooth running of the fund activities.
The initiative, which is part of the company’s commitment to keeping the country connected during this period. Safaricom will avail connectivity resources and airtime to the Ministry of Health, the COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund, and frontline healthcare workers both at the National and County levels.
Hon. Mutahi Kagwe, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Health, said: “As we face this crisis, seamless worry-free communication between the frontline 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.”
This commitment adds to Safaricom’s ongoing initiatives, currently valued at KES 6.5 billion geared to support customers and the country from the negative impact of the pandemic through interventions in financial services, transport, education, and healthcare.
Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom PLC Chief Executive Officer, said: “The gallant frontline healthcare workers are our first line of defence against the pandemic. Their dedication to serving the country has helped slow down infections within our communities. We not only want to appreciate the great work they are doing. But also facilitate their communication as they continue discharging their duties.”
“We are cognizant of the challenge ahead of us and our purpose as an organization is clear. To keep our customers connected and support Kenyans in whatever way we can” added Ndegwa.
