Tanzanian authorities are considering the temporary or permanent blocking of social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, following a series of cyberattacks against national institutions since last month. The attacks have resulted in the spread of inappropriate content across the network.

Tanzania officially confirmed on Wednesday, June 4, it had blocked access to X (formerly Twitter). The government cited the spread of pornographic content, which it deemed contrary to the country’s laws and cultural values. This move comes amid rising political tensions ahead of general elections scheduled for October.

Information Minister Jerry Silaa stated that X's policy allowing explicit sexual content, including homosexual content, violates Tanzanian law and tradition. Speaking to a local television channel, Silaa said the platform's practices contradict national regulations. He added that the government's decision aims to protect consumers and ensure all online platforms comply with domestic laws.

The ban on X follows a series of cyberattacks on May 20. During these incidents, official government accounts, including those of the Tanzanian police and tax authority, were hacked. The attackers posted pornographic images and falsely announced the death of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Although authorities downplayed the incidents, they reignited concerns about cybersecurity and freedom of expression in the country.

With approximately 621,100 users in 2024, X plays a significant role in Tanzania, facilitating information access, free speech, and economic development. Its shutdown threatens to disrupt communication channels among citizens, media outlets, institutions, and small businesses that depend on the network to inform, mobilize, or sell services.

The restriction on X occurs just months before a critical election, raising concerns for democratic debate. Economically, this move aligns with a broader trend of digital crackdowns across sub-Saharan Africa, which cost the region an estimated $1.56 billion in 2024, according to Top10VPN. This highlights the damaging impact of such measures on digital growth and Tanzania's international reputation.

By Samira Njoya,

Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji