Kenya’s Communications Authority (CA) has directed telecom operators to suspend access to Telegram during specific hours, aiming to prevent students from sharing answers during national exams.
The move follows Kenya’s ongoing efforts to curb exam-related misconduct using encrypted messaging platforms, with CA pointing to Telegram’s lack of full cooperation in its regulatory requests.
Why Is Telegram Targeted?
Telegram, which has over a billion users worldwide, has become a tool for communication in Kenya, thanks to its encryption and ability to host large chat groups.
However, the CA argues that this also makes it a medium for unauthorized information-sharing among students during exams.
In a letter sent to telecom giants like Safaricom, Telkom Kenya, Jamii Telecom, and Airtel Kenya on October 31, the CA requested that these providers block Telegram between 7:00–10:00 a.m. and 1:00–4:00 p.m. on weekdays until November 22, coinciding with the exam period.
Other platforms, the CA claims, have shown more cooperation in assisting with exam integrity measures.
Economic Impact of Messaging App Bans
The directive has led to immediate disruptions, confirmed by NetBlocks, an internet monitoring organization that observed restrictions across Safaricom’s network.
This shutdown recalls a similar incident in November 2023, when a ban on Telegram resulted in an estimated daily loss of KSh 537 million ($4.2 million), with Kenya’s businesses facing setbacks in connectivity and customer engagement.
By the end of that ban, Kenya had reportedly lost around KSh 4.2 billion ($32.5 million).
As many Kenyan businesses, including retailers, customer support services, and e-commerce companies, rely on Telegram for seamless communication, the financial impact of another temporary ban could be significant.
Telegram’s Evolving Response to Government Requests
Telegram’s stance on cooperation with law enforcement has shown signs of change in recent months.
Following the detention of six Telegram administrators in Kenya last year for alleged exam-related activities, Telegram updated its privacy policy in September 2024, allowing limited data-sharing, such as IP addresses, with law enforcement.
The move came after Telegram’s founder, Pavel Durov, faced legal issues in France, possibly reflecting a new approach to collaboration with authorities.
Nevertheless, the CA’s decision indicates ongoing challenges in aligning Telegram’s operations with local regulatory demands.
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