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Several Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Tanzania, including Airtel, Vodacom, Halotel, Tigo, and TTCL, have restricted access to the platform X (formerly known as Twitter), effectively preventing users across the country from accessing the service.

These restrictions are not limited to just accessing the platform; they also include the blocking of essential services like the Image Content Delivery Network (CDN), Mobile API, and Photo/Video Uploads, leading to a nationwide inaccessibility. As most ISPs have enforced these restrictions, there is growing concern that the platform may face a complete shutdown. Many believe this is a deliberate move by the government to curb the spread of information, particularly regarding a recent prison break, and to halt all communications related to the event.

This crackdown comes in the wake of a police alert regarding suspected plans by opposition parties to storm facilities holding political prisoners. On August 30, 2024, the Tanzanian Police Force (TANPOL) issued a warning to members of the opposition party Chadema, accusing them of using Zoom to coordinate protests. The police allege that these Zoom meetings are being utilized to organize small groups to raid offices and police stations.

Earlier in the month, the Tanzanian government detained Chadema’s chairman, Tundu Lissu, along with the head of the party’s youth wing. Social activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai responded by posting a list of the names of these political prisoners, encouraging the public to spread the information on social media in an effort to secure their release.

Using hashtags such as #FreeThemAll and #FreeDeusdedithSoka, Tanzanian activists have taken to social media to rally support for the imprisoned individuals, including Jacob Mlay, Chaula, Frank Mbise, Dioniz, and Deusdedith Soka.

International human rights organizations and digital rights advocates view these internet access restrictions as a direct attack on freedom of speech and the right to information, seeing them as an infringement on democratic rights and principles.

This situation is reminiscent of similar incidents in Kenya following the Finance Bill 2024, where internet disruptions were attributed to government efforts to limit media coverage of protests. Similarly, Nigeria and Senegal have also experienced internet shutdowns during critical political events, such as protests and elections.

X (formerly Twitter) has been one of the most frequently targeted social media platforms for such restrictions. In 2023, the platform faced over 10,000 hours of intentional disruptions, significantly more than other social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

The trend of internet shutdowns is on the rise in Africa, with sub-Saharan Africa alone losing $1.74 billion due to government-imposed shutdowns in 2023. The region has seen numerous disruptions in recent years, highlighting a growing challenge to digital rights and access to information across the continent.