Partnership delivers data-free Covid-19 information
Jenna Delport
The World Health Organization (WHO) has partnered with Facebook and South African based Praekelt.org to provide data-free information on the Covid-19 pandemic to vulnerable communities across the globe.
This is said to add a vital element to the organisation’s work to fight misinformation and ensure access to accurate health information and resources on Covid-19.
WHO director-general Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus said: “Through this collaboration, we will reach some of the most vulnerable people who will be able to access lifesaving health information without any data charges in more than 50 countries.”
The collaboration uses Free Basics and Discover by Facebook, providing people access to useful services on their mobile phones in markets where internet access may be less affordable.
The websites on Free Basics and Discover by Facebook, including WHO’s Covid-19 platform, are available without any data charges.
Based on a founding premise that access to information is a fundamental right, Praekelt.org has worked with Free Basics and Discover by Facebook for several years. Among past projects was the Praekelt.org Incubator for Free Basics with Facebook programme; which provided NGOs and social enterprises with the support and tools they needed to deliver services to poor and marginalised communities via mobile.
Praekelt.org MD Debbie Rogers says: “After a successful WHO Health Alert launch on WhatsApp in March we are honoured to be able to continue our partnership with the World Health Organization and Facebook, to extend the accessibility of vital Covid-19 information and resources as the virus accelerates globally.”
The partnership has resulted in an easy-to-navigate WHO mobile website that provides detailed advice for the public, including how to protect yourself and others from Covid-19, myth busters, and how best to look after your physical and mental health.
There is also a dedicated section for healthcare workers, which includes advice on the use of masks, the rights and responsibilities of health workers, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Along with up-to-date information and statistics, WHO’s Covid-19 information in Free Basics and Discover, also includes the latest WHO news as well as a selection of questions and answers that address some of the defining issues around Covid-19, including violence against women, pregnancy, childbirth and mass gatherings.
The website is being launched in English, with French, Spanish and Arabic to follow; and other languages to be added as they become available.
