Empowering South Africans with the launch of SashChat, a multilingual chatbot that provides 24/7 access to vital rights information and support.
Human rights organisation Black Sash has launched SashChat, a multilingual chatbot designed to help South Africans access information, advice and referrals on their rights and services 24/7.
The chatbot is available through WhatsApp, the Black Sash website and its Facebook page, allowing users to access information outside the helpline's normal working hours.
Black Sash National Helpline Manager Kgothatso Sibanda said during the launch on Tuesday that the chatbot was developed in response to growing demand for assistance through WhatsApp and the pressure this placed on the organisation’s helpline.
The Black Sash helpline has operated for more than 15 years, providing free information, advice and referrals to people seeking help with their social and economic rights. The organisation introduced WhatsApp services in 2018. By 2023, the majority of clients seeking assistance from the helpline have contacted it via WhatsApp.
