In 2024, Africa experienced a surge in digital blackouts, prompting many governments to disconnect millions of citizens from the internet over the past decade. A report by Internet Rights Group Access Now and #Keepiton revealed a record 21 internet shutdowns in 15 countries, surpassing previous years. Countries like Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, and Mauritius, as well as repeat offenders like Burundi, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea, and Kenya, were cited for these actions. Authorities in Guinea, Nigeria, Senegal, and Tanzania were also implicated, along with non-state actors like militias. Telecommunications and internet service providers that comply with government shutdown orders are complicit in violating people’s rights, according to Felicia Anthonio, #Keepiton Campaign Manager at Access Now.
Most closures were linked to conflict, protests, and political instability, with restrictions often imposed during elections. The global trend of escalating internet shutdowns continued, with 296 closures in 54 countries in 2024 compared to 283 closures in 39 countries the previous year. Access to the internet has faced its worst challenges since 2016, reflecting a pattern of weaponization and restriction of internet access worldwide.
The impact of these closures on individuals and communities during times of turmoil and conflict was highlighted in the report. While some African countries had endured year-long internet restrictions by the end of 2024, others faced ongoing limitations like in Uganda and Equatorial Guinea. However, efforts to reverse this trend were seen in the passing of a landmark resolution by the African Human and People’s Rights Committee in March 2024.
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Despite efforts to address the issue, election-related internet shutdowns persisted in Africa and other regions in 2024, even after the adoption of the ACHPR resolution. Antonio emphasized the importance of civil society advocacy in holding governments accountable for these shutdowns. While progress may be slow, there have been instances where authorities reconsidered their shutdown orders, offering a glimmer of hope for a more open and connected future.
Source: www.theguardian.com
