UNICEF, Safaricom’s new Internet of Good Things in Kenya to make life better, healthier

The Internet of Good Things has been launched by UNICEF and Safaricom in Kenya, which is going to be a set of information and resources to promote living life better and healthier.

Internet of Good Things is a UNICEF-led initiative, currently accessible in over 60 countries and territories around the world, and helping to bridge the digital divide and build knowledge societies. As a platform, Internet of Good Things hosts mobile-packaged content from UNICEF and its partners, designed to make life-saving and life-improving information available at no cost – even on low-end devices, and basic web-enabled mobile phones.

Internet of Good Things also allows youth and citizens to take part in critical discussions and voice their opinions by providing greater access to information and tools to provide feedback. In Kenya, Internet of Good Things is made accessible free of data charges by Safaricom. The users should access the site with a Safaricom SIM card to utilize the Internet of Good Things Kenya without data charges. Browsing the site will not deduct airtime from their balance.

Many communities and individuals across Kenya do not have ways to easily, or without charge, access life-saving information. Adolescents, especially girls, are vulnerable to malnutrition, child marriage, female genital mutilation, physical, sexual and gender-based violence, poor access to health information, early and unintended pregnancy, HIV and AIDS and more. Without access to critical information, these challenges and vulnerabilities can continue to compound.

Through Internet of Good Things, access is provided to skills building, positive knowledge, emergency information, and anyone can be empowered to make more informed decisions around health, ending violence, environment protection, career advice and many other areas.

“We are pleased this collaboration between UNICEF Kenya and Safaricom will allow young people, caregivers and communities to access vital information and acquire new knowledge and skills – so that more children and young people can be protected from violence, harm and disease and can grow to their full potential. UNICEF is committed to reaching the most disadvantaged populations and marginalized communities,” says Patrizia DiGiovanni, Officer-In-Charge of UNICEF Kenya.

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