Digital blocks in Africa restrict rights, say activists

Digital watchdogs have documented several cases across the African continent in recent months where access to the internet or social media was blocked or cut off at crucial moments. Analysts have said it is not always clear if the cases are the result of a direct order, but the timing often suggests it is, according to a Voice of America report. Within the past year, digital rights group Access Now has documented shutdowns in Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania, Mauritius and Equatorial Guinea. Nearly all take place alongside events such as protests or elections. But these shutdowns can be harmful to the country's residents, said Felicia Anthonio, campaign manager at Access Now. ‘It not only disrupts the flow of information, it also makes it impossible for people to access information in a timely manner,’ Anthonio said. ‘When we are talking about crisis situations, information can be like a lifeline, and so, disrupting access could be about life and death in conflict situations.’ Nompilo Simanje, Africa advocacy and partnerships lead at the International Press Institute, said many governments justify the shutdowns as moves to promote public order and safety. ‘The key reasons really are to restrict communication, restrict free expression, restrict online mobilisation, restrict online freedom of assembly and association, and also restrict access to information,’ she said.