15 African countries that have restricted the internet or social media
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A report by Access Now indicates that 15 African countries experienced internet or social media shutdowns in 2025, totaling 30 incidents. These restrictions are frequently linked to political instability, protests, and election periods.
Why it matters
Internet shutdowns represent a significant challenge to digital rights, freedom of information, and economic stability in developing nations.
social media Internet access has become an essential part of everyday life, allowing people to communicate, access news, run businesses, receive education and participate in public life. Advertisement 15 African countries recorded internet shutdowns in 2025, according to Access Now, with 30 shutdowns documented across the continent.
Countries including Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Kenya and Senegal have also imposed restrictions on social-media platforms or specific online services at different times.
Protests, political unrest and elections were among the main reasons cited for internet restrictions, which can disrupt access to news, communication, education and businesses.
However, governments and authorities across several African countries have, at different times, restricted access to the internet or specific social-media platforms. These measures have ranged from nationwide blackouts and regional disruptions to the blocking of individual platforms such as Facebook, X, Telegram and WhatsApp.
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