221 Global News Post 1
Alanna Strickland
Tobias, S (2020) Togo Safe, l’application anti-covid est opérationnelle – CIOMAG (cio-mag.com)
As of July 2020, the Togolese government has started tracking incoming traveler to the country with the use of free SIM cards given to guests. The tracking is to ensure self-isolation while waiting for their COVID-19 results to come back, this is being used to mitigate the spread of the virus and to limit those infected. The app, Togo Safe, allows for travelers to become aware if they have been in contact with someone who has recently tested positive for COVID-19, it also alerts the Ministry of Health’s monitoring and investigation unit to be able to keep track of those who have been infected. The Minister has stated that, ” the objective is to make life easier for travelers through dematerialization by saving them time and efficiency on their journey, without lowering the level of security and health controls.” The article states that since they have resumed flights from Lomé International Airport, 31 out of 15,000 passengers have tested positive, although this may not seem like a lot, even 31 can cause a massive spread of the virus. This article does have perspectives from a couple of travelers and from the ministry itself. A quote from the article states, “”I installed the app at Lomé International Airport. I then entered my chosen quarantine location. He was my favorite friend during my stay,” says Eric Gagnon, Togo. They reside in France, returning to Lomé at the beginning of September. For the latter, innovation has saved him from filling out the endless paperwork of information required at many airports.” It seems that this innovation has been beneficial for many who are wishing to save time. The only downside I would say, for those who are traveling is that if they do not have the app downloaded, they are subject to extra costs. It states, ” “Failing to download this application, arriving travelers are placed in quarantine within the monitoring structures set up by the State. The costs associated with it are the responsibility of the traveler,” explains Cina Lawson.” I overall think this is a good idea but, many might think that is innovation can be a risk for privacy and freedom, I think it all depends on where these travelers come from and what their nation’s idea of freedom is.