Using digital tools to connect with rural Myanmar

Myanmar’s rural people struggle to apply generalized public health advice to their own lives, particularly when it contradicts economic necessity. Digital channels – and in particular Facebook – are the primary source of information (and misinformation) about COVID-19. Ensuring that clear, accurate and easily applicable information about the virus is prevalent on the platform will thus be crucial to drive the right response among the population.

Proximity Designs is customizing official advice from the Myanmar government and the WHO – adding graphics, illustrations and practical examples from daily life in rural Myanmar to ensure greater clarity and reach. We also repurposed our popular Facebook Messenger chatbot service, which we developed to teach agronomy techniques and give pest and disease advice, to proactively get users information on how to quarantine properly, a list of useful phone numbers, details about COVID-19 symptoms and factual details debunking popular myths. Our content is available on our social media pages and through Facebook advertising.

Leveraged extensive reach, trusted brand, and deep knowledge of village life to minimize the spread and social effects of COVID-19 in rural Myanmar.