1/7 I'm proudly part of this #COVIDー19 rapid response in Kenya (with @lukechurch @SpryVoice @Anna_Colom and the team @africas_voices). We're reaching millions, and listening/responding to thousands with critical information and advice. Story👇🏾 starts tomorrow, ends 2 years ago.
2/7 Tomorrow we go live on @RadioJamboKenya with @MassaweJapanni at 11am EAT - a show reaching millions. With an expert, the show responds to our analysis of Kenyan citizens' questions and concerns... we're building a trusted two-way conversation space.
3/7 Two days ago, @RadioJamboKenya started airing 'Public Service Announcements' with a call for Kenyans to send their views on #coronavirus for free using SMS. In 48 hours, over 900 Kenyans texted us. The number is growing quickly.
4/7 Over 500 messages were Questions (what is COVID-19? what are symptoms, what do I do?, what is the situation in Kenya?) > we're responding (humans not robots! helped by state-of-art tech) with tailored best practice info.
5/7 Two weeks ago, we had the idea to do this. 10 days later, this two-way comms platform, with radio partners, ready to scale, was set up. Amazing work by the team @africas_voices led by @SamuelKimeu and @missdee_en, and the team at Lark Social Impact, led by @lukechurch.
6/7 Two years ago, at @CGHR_Cambridge we evaluated @africas_voices interactive radio method for rapid research and health communications in epidemics, supported by @wellcometrust and @DFID_UK (thanks @J_RAlmeida!). Experience this method here: explain.avf.world
7/7 Our Kenya project is a pro bono pilot. We're demonstrating its contribution to the crisis, and hoping to find supporters and partners. In Kenya and beyond, across Africa or further, if you're interested to know more, partner, or contribute, please tell us!
