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Sub-Saharan African countries incurred losses of $1.5 billion due to internet shutdowns in 2024, accounting for 19% of the global total of $7.69 billion, according to data from Top10VPN.

The report documented 28 internet shutdowns worldwide, with 13 occurring in African nations, including Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Algeria, Guinea, Mauritania, Senegal, Mozambique, Chad, Mauritius, Tanzania, Papua New Guinea, and Equatorial Guinea.

Sudan recorded the highest losses on the continent, amounting to $1.12 billion, as internet services were disrupted for over 12,707 hours, equivalent to 529 days. The prolonged shutdowns were largely attributed to ongoing conflicts in the country, which have resulted in 13,000 deaths and displaced over 10 million people.

In Kenya and Ethiopia, internet disruptions were linked to protests. Kenya lost $75 million due to a nationwide shutdown triggered by demonstrations against a proposed Finance Bill that sought to increase taxes amidst growing economic hardships. The protests, which began in June, were youth-led and organized via social media platforms.

The unrest escalated on June 25, 2024, when protesters stormed the Kenyan Parliament, leading to fires, casualties, and over 20 deaths. Following weeks of protests, Kenyan President William Ruto declined to sign the bill into law, dismissed key government officials, and pledged reforms, though calls for deeper changes and his resignation persisted. Ethiopia, which faced similar shutdowns during protests, suffered losses amounting to $211 million.

Globally, internet shutdowns have declined in financial impact, dropping from $24.61 billion in 2022 to $7.69 billion in 2024. However, Africa continues to rank among the hardest-hit regions. While conflicts are the primary cause of shutdowns in Africa, elections are the leading trigger in Asia, which recorded the highest number of disruptions last year.

Internet shutdowns not only disrupt communication but also impede economic activities, stifling business operations and innovation. Experts have called for stronger safeguards to ensure access to the internet during crises, emphasizing its role in supporting governance, commerce, and societal resilience.