When COVID-19 struck Kenya on March 13, 2020, it quickly escalated into a national crisis. The government imposed a lockdown, halting education and bringing daily life to a standstill. The virus claimed countless lives and caused unprecedented disruption.
Now, four years later, Kenya is on a recovery path, having adapted to a new way of living. In this journey of resilience and adaptation, we have integrated new norms into our daily routines. This article delves into these transformative changes, exploring how COVID-19 has reshaped our society and the innovative practices that have emerged from this global pandemic
One of the most noticeable changes brought about by COVID-19 is the shift away from the customary handshake. Once a universal gesture of greeting and trust, handshakes have largely been replaced by contactless greetings, such as elbow bumps, nods, or even simple waves. This shift has fundamentally altered social interactions, influencing how we connect and build relationships in both personal and professional contexts. It has required a cultural adjustment, fostering new ways to express warmth and respect without physical contact.
The pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work, leading to a significant reduction in the need for traditional office spaces. Companies quickly adapted to this new model, leveraging technology to maintain productivity. This shift has had profound implications for the commercial real estate sector, with many businesses downsizing their office footprints or abandoning them altogether. The rise of home offices and coworking spaces has redefined the concept of the workplace, offering greater flexibility and altering urban planning and commercial real estate strategies.
Masks have become an essential part of daily life, transforming public health and safety norms. Initially a temporary measure, mask-wearing has now become a regular practice in public spaces, such as markets, transportation, and gatherings. This new norm has influenced fashion trends and prompted innovations in mask design, making them not only a protective measure but also a statement of personal and social responsibility.
The fear of virus transmission through physical money has accelerated the shift towards cashless transactions. Digital payment methods, such as mobile money, online banking, and contactless cards, have seen a significant rise in usage. It has also driven innovations in fintech, creating a more efficient and secure financial ecosystem. Nowadays, it is normal to find individuals relying on Mpesa transactions for an entire year without touching any cash. In Kenya, banks have also intensified their efforts towards streamlining their online banking to serve these changing needs of their clients.
Carrying hand sanitizers has become a ubiquitous habit, reflecting a heightened awareness of personal hygiene. This simple yet effective practice has been ingrained in daily routines, contributing to the reduction of germ transmission. It has also influenced public health campaigns and the development of products focused on sanitation, underscoring the importance of cleanliness in preventing illness.
The pandemic necessitated a swift shift to online education, reshaping the traditional learning environment. Schools and universities adopted virtual classrooms, leveraging digital platforms to continue instruction. This change has highlighted the importance of technology in education, promoting digital literacy and flexible learning. It has also revealed disparities in access to technology, prompting efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable educational opportunities for all students
These new norms, born out of necessity, have not only helped us navigate the challenges of the pandemic but also paved the way for a more resilient and innovative future. As we continue on this path of recovery, these changes serve as a testament to our ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity.
