Tanzania has blocked access to X following an online hack of the Tanzania Police Force on Tuesday, May 21, 2025. The hack resulted in pornographic posts, which have since been deleted. It also falsely announced the death of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, leading to mass concern before the post was taken down.
X blocked in Tanzania
Following the hack, the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority instructed Internet service providers to limit access to X. The government backed the shutdown to ensure cybersecurity measures to reduce misinformation and maintain public order.
The Independent reported that users were still blocked from using the social media platform on Wednesday unless they used a virtual private network. However, those who use VPNs without authorization can face jail time or prosecution.
Free speech online in Tanzania
Several politicians, intellectuals, and critics in Tanzania use X to express their opinions. But Hassan’s government, which is up for reelection in October, has tried to limit online disagreements. According to Techpoint Africa, this is the second time in less than a year that Tanzania has blocked X after a similar confinement associated with online political mobilization by opposition groups.
Civil society groups, including the Internet Governance Tanzania Working Group, argue that frequent shutdowns could lessen public trust and limit democratic participation.
Internet shutdowns in Africa
Twenty-eight internet shutdowns occurred in 28 countries in 2024, 13 of which came from Africa. Those countries were Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Algeria, Guinea, Mauritania, Senegal, Mozambique, Chad, Mauritius, Tanzania, Papua New Guinea, and Equatorial Guinea.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan was the leading cause of internet shutdowns in Africa last year. With over 10 million Sudanese displaced, Amnesty International urged the SAF and RSF to stop cutting internet access, calling it a vital lifeline for civilians.
The internet was also shut down in countries like Kenya and Ethiopia due to protests. Subsequently, both countries lost $75 million and $211 million. The lack of internet caused more problems in Kenya with the Finance Bill protest, which led to several arrests of protesters and injuries.
Image: Daddy Mohlala
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