Stay Safe, Go Digital – Some digital shifts effected by COVID-19 in Kenya

In the last few months, COVID-19 has reshaped society in dramatic ways and is slowly creating a new normal. In Kenya, things started shifting two weeks ago after the first COVID-19 case was announced, now the cases have risen to 30+. Shifts have been witnessed from how we shop, how we worship, how we work, how we learn and even how we stay entertained.

With all that is happening, we envision digital transformation becoming mainstream. Digital tools have been at the forefront of keeping people safe and informed about the virus. Chances are these habits will stick and now is a high time to learn and make digital channels effective as an organization.

In response to the coronavirus outbreak which is spreading fast, several companies have taken agile steps to make sure the curve is flattened.It’s been encouraging to see swift responses from different companies including the government, both public and private sectors and everyone at large.

We highlight some top shifts in the last two week:

• Stay safe, go cashless, we have reduced transaction costs!— Banks and mobile money transfer services have waived cost of transactions, and are encouraging their users to make payments and money transfer online.

• Stay safe, order online, we will deliver it to you, for free! — Delivery services have partnered with supermarkets and other businesses in availing products, mostly essentials to customers. Ordering products online is being encouraged.

• Stay safe, you can worship at home — Several churches on Sunday resorted to streaming their services online mostly on their social media platforms. At the same time, members are being asked to pay for tithes through mobile money and bank transfers.

• Stay safe, work from home — Following the directive for social distancing and reduced gathering, most companies have advised their employees to work from home. For those who’s nature of work requires being outside, strict measures are being taken to stay safe.

• Stay safe, we will engage you wherever you are — Parties, entertainment, events, workouts have moved online. Online platforms are creating a space for social gathering which you can be part of from the comfort of your home.

These are definitely tough and uncertain times, but it’s encouraging to witness how both organizations and individuals are stepping up and making things better.

Do follow us as we share our insights from COVID-19, our key learnings on how organizations can use this period to inform their strategies and as we unpack this over the next few weeks. We hope you are doing your part, we all have a role to play in this pandemic.