Paradigm Initiative Condemns Tanzania’s Internet Blackout, Calls for Immediate Restoration of Access
Analysts warn that Tanzania’s approach mirrors a worrying trend across the African continent
By Hubzmedia , November 2025
The digital rights advocacy group Paradigm Initiative (PIN) has expressed deep concern over Tanzania’s recent internet disruptions, saying the blackout and ongoing social media restrictions have caused significant economic harm and violated citizens’ fundamental rights to expression and information.
In a statement released this week, PIN said it was alarmed by the internet shutdown imposed during the country’s October 29 general elections, the continued suspension of X (formerly Twitter) since May 2025, and reports of persistent bandwidth throttling even after partial restoration of connectivity on November 3. The organisation described these actions as “economically devastating and deeply damaging to digital rights,” adding that they contradict regional and international human-rights obligations.
According to the group, the disruption has dealt a heavy blow to Tanzania’s economy. Citing figures from the NetBlocks Cost of Shutdown Tool (COST)—a globally recognised model that quantifies the economic impact of internet restrictions—PIN estimates that Tanzania has lost more than US $238 million (TSh 560 billion) in direct losses to productivity, trade, and digital services. The five-day nationwide blackout alone is estimated to have cost about US $72 million (TSh 170 billion), while the ongoing suspension of X, which began on May 21 and has now exceeded 160 days, has drained approximately US $165 million (TSh 390 billion) from the economy.
PIN warned that beyond the direct financial losses, the disruptions have had far-reaching social and political consequences, crippling mobile money operations, limiting access to timely information, and eroding public trust in digital infrastructure. “Every shutdown chips away at trust, investment, and human potential,” said Gbenga Sesan, Executive Director of Paradigm Initiative. “Governments must realise that in today’s world, connectivity is the foundation of opportunity. Shutting down the internet silences citizens, stalls economies, and sets entire nations back.”
The organisation further noted that these restrictions stand in violation of Articles 9 and 19 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantee freedom of expression and access to information, as well as Article 22, which enshrines the right to development. Tanzania, as a State Party to the Charter, is obligated to uphold these rights. PIN also referenced the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights Resolution 580 on Internet Shutdowns and Elections in Africa, which explicitly calls on member states to ensure uninterrupted access to the internet before, during, and after elections.
The Tanzanian government has faced increasing scrutiny over its handling of digital freedoms during election periods. Media reports, including those from AP News and The Star, indicate that the blackout coincided with heightened political tension, curfews, and a heavy security presence across major cities. The suspension of X, which authorities justified in May as a response to alleged cyberattacks on government accounts, has remained in place despite international criticism and domestic frustration among businesses and journalists.
PIN urged the government to immediately restore full access to X and all restricted platforms, end any further disruptions to internet or digital services, and ensure that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) operate free from political interference. The group also called on ISPs to publish transparency reports whenever ordered to restrict or throttle internet access.
Analysts warn that Tanzania’s approach mirrors a worrying trend across the African continent, where governments increasingly resort to internet shutdowns during elections or protests. Experts argue that such actions not only suppress dissent but also undermine investor confidence and stifle innovation in emerging digital economies.
Paradigm Initiative reiterated that Tanzania’s path to inclusive growth and democratic integrity lies in open access to information and an unfettered internet. “Connectivity is no longer a luxury—it is a lifeline,” the organisation said. “Restoring access is not just a technical necessity; it is a democratic imperative.”
About Author
