SINCE its outbreak, the dramatic spread of Covid-19 has disrupted lives, livelihoods, communities and businesses worldwide making it hard for governments to contain it on their own.
There has been a need and call for businesses, corporates and individuals to support government efforts to combat the corona virus.
It has been proven that inclusion of private sector in disaster response and management reduces risks and duplication while increasing the resilience of companies and societies.
In the past months, we have seen organisations, businesses, corporates and individuals around the world come together to find innovative ways to minimise the impact of Corona on public health and to limit disruptions to economies and supply chains.
The telecom and technology company is working very closely with the Ministry of Health to ensure that the public has access to timely and reliable information about preventative measures.
In an interview with the Managing Director of
As a responsible corporate entity,
First, we believe in the power of information to effect change which is why as part of our strategies, we have ensured that our staff, partners, customers and the entire community receive the right information about Coronavirus so they can protect themselves.
We're working closely with the Ministry of Health and other government authorities to ensure that the public has access to timely and reliable information about the pandemic and preventative measures.
So far we have sent nearly 200 million text messages to our base. Information is also available free of charge to all
We have a dedicated page providing ample information on health and safety procedures.
We have also zero-rated key health and education platforms to enable mass access to information.
Everyone can access key government health websites free of charge and receive ample information that will keep them, their contacts and loved ones safe.
Secondly, we have donated 2bn/- assist the government in its efforts to combat Coronavirus in sourcing equipment and supplies to help prevent the spread of the disease in the country as well as providing free internet connectivity to the NIMR offices.
Furthermore, we have extended our support to the government of
Finally, as a company we have adequately put measures in place to support our customers and companies who are working remotely.
We continue to improve our capacity and resources to minimize congestions and improve efficiency.
Furthermore,
In the face of current challenges facing parents, students and teachers alike, we have taken this market leadership role a step further.
Through our Instant Schools portal,
Parents and caretakers can download the Instant Schools App free of charge to ensure that their children do not miss a day of learning.
The service is 100 per cent zero rated, meaning that students can access the portal even when they have no data bundles on their phone.
Parents and children can access free syllabus approved education materials and trial tests via the Vodacom Instant Schools portal.
We advise parents and teachers to keep their children occupied during this period by using the Vodacom Instant Schools.
The portal is accessible via mobile phone and on computers. Additionally, keeping children occupied and entertained is a full time job for many parents.
The
The immediate response was conducting a staff training on the pandemic and running a staff awareness campaign to ensure that all our people are well informed on how they can keep themselves, family, friends, and customers safe.
We are also taking social distancing seriously. Our staff have been directed to work from home, except for absolutely critical staff and activities that may require their physical presence.
We have the technology and know-how to maintain staff morale and productivity during this period.
We have also put stringent hand washing and phone sanitizing measures at all our
Regarding the business community, we understand that in the wake of this pandemic, there have been significant disruptions in regular business operations across the globe.
However, the issue is bigger than simply adhering to current advice on restriction to large gatherings and movement.
We are advocating for a change in mindset, that work is something that you do and not necessarily a place that you go to.
As I said
I am glad that at
We have remained connected with one another and productive throughout this period.
We are also advocating for increased use of our mobile money services via M-PESA by dialing *150*00#.
Time is proving that this is the safest, most reliable and most accessible way to carry out financial transactions for both personal and business purposes.
As a market leader in digital technology,
We ensure that all our customers have seamless access to the best digital products and services irrespective of their situation or location, they can continue to remain productive.
We have taken this need in stride by improving offerings on our voice and data bundles to ensure that everyone can conduct business and communicate with loved ones regularly.
Our network also allows you to enjoy unique online entertainment and personal learning services.
Additionally, we have beefed up our customer service protocols to ensure that even in this period, all our subscribers have ready access to customer service assistance.
They can report any issues and chat with customer service executives via
Also our Facebook page and portal is also a popular way to report issues that require our attention.
Furthermore, customers can dial our customer service helpline 100 and talk directly to one of our customer service executives.
We understand the needs of our customers and are always ready to listen, offer support and respond with unique products and services to keep that smile on your face regardless of what else is happening around you.
For those concerned about business continuity, remember that
For those concerned about their children's education, simply download that Vodacom Instant Schools App and enjoy free education and learning materials for your children.
We assure you of our commitment to use our vast network coverage and fast internet connection to provide you with products, services and a seamless user experience in this period.
We are committed to supporting the government combating the spread of Covid-19 during this time by contributing to the relief fund which will go a long way towards supporting those affected, our health care workers and the community at large.
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