​Qaqambile Mdledle
In keeping with the global trend of using technology to try to slow-down rate of COVID-19 infections, the government recently launched an app that lets people know if they have been exposed to another person with the coronavirus.
Covid Alert SA is South Africa's free exposure notification app, which lets people know when they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. The app is entirely anonymous and always protects users' privacy and security, as it does not need or store personal information.
It uses Bluetooth technology to notify users if they have been in contact with coronavirus, including strangers in retail stores, in public transport or in any public space.
Addressing the nation last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa also welcomed the launch of the app, saying it was a significant milestone in the country's fight against coronavirus, and would play an important role in preventing a second wave of infections.
"I want to make a call this evening to everyone who has a smartphone in South Africa to download the Covid Alert mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store," Ramaphosa said during his address to the nation, adding that the app had been zero-rated by mobile networks, so one can download it without any data costs.
The app is an important tool to combating the pandemic, as it can help slow the spread of the virus and save lives. It does not require other health information and neither does it identify personal detail or access to your phone's contacts.
Downloading the app is quick and easy and is under 3 MB in size. The app is free to access and does not feature in-app purchases. Users also do not have to pay for mobile data when using the app.
"The more South Africans download the app, the more effective it will be in stopping a second wave of Covid-19 infection," said Ramaphosa.