Tanzania - June 2025

On 4 June, Tanzania’s Information Minister Jerry Silaa confirmed that access to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) had been restricted for its failure to comply with national online content laws, particularly around explicit material. This marks the first official confirmation of the measure, following user reports from 20 May about difficulties accessing the platform. Network data from the Open Observatory of Network Interference (OONI) confirmed that the platform was partially blocked using DNS and TLS interference, with disruptions varying across internet provider; VPN access remained possible. The restriction followed cyberattacks on government accounts and comes months ahead of the October general election. Rights groups warned that the restrictions signal a shrinking online space and may hinder freedom of expression.

Sources: The Citizen, British Broadcasting Corporation, The Associated Press, Business Insider Africa, Business & Human Rights Resource Centre