The Tanzanian government has officially blocked public access to the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), citing growing concerns over cybersecurity threats, fake news, and explicit content being shared on the platform.

According to the government, the restriction aims to protect national integrity and preserve cultural values in the face of what it describes as the platform’s “irresponsible content policies.”

This decision marks the second time within a year that Tanzania has restricted X, signaling a tightening grip on social media activity and sparking renewed debate over digital freedoms and state control in the East African nation. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Government Explains the Decision

Tanzania’s Minister of Information, Jerry Silaa, announced the development on Wednesday, explaining that the government’s decision follows a series of cyberattacks on official government accounts.

These attacks, according to him, resulted in the spread of false and explicit material online, allegedly targeting public officials and institutions. Silaa emphasized that X’s updated policies, which now permit sexually explicit content, are incompatible with Tanzanian law, customs, and moral standards.

“We cannot allow a platform that directly contradicts our laws and promotes content that undermines our culture and values. The safety and moral integrity of Tanzanians must come first,” he stated.

As part of the restriction, only verified government officials and institutions, including President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s office, are permitted to access and use X for official communication. All other users across the country have been blocked from the platform.

Cybersecurity and Moral Justifications

The government cited cybersecurity risks and digital misinformation as key motivations for the ban. Authorities claim that malicious actors were using X to spread fake news and manipulated content aimed at destabilizing the government and inciting unrest.

Additionally, officials argue that the social platform’s increasing tolerance for explicit media and politically sensitive discussions could expose Tanzanian citizens—especially young users—to “harmful influences.”

The decision aligns with Tanzania’s broader internet governance policy, which prioritizes strict regulation of online content to maintain public order and cultural values.

Public Reaction: VPN Usage on the Rise

Despite the ban, many Tanzanians have already found ways around the restriction using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass government firewalls and continue accessing X.

Online reports indicate a spike in VPN downloads and installations, as users seek to stay connected with international news and discussions. Some activists and journalists have also criticized the government’s move, calling it an attempt to silence dissent and control the narrative around national issues.

Human rights organizations have warned that repeated internet restrictions could isolate Tanzanians from global discourse, limit access to information, and negatively impact digital entrepreneurship and tech innovation in the country.

Digital Freedom vs. National Security

The decision has reignited a national and international debate about the balance between national security and freedom of expression.

While government officials defend the ban as a necessary step to protect citizens from cyber threats and immoral content, critics argue that such actions represent digital authoritarianism—a growing trend among certain African governments seeking to control online speech.

Analysts say the ban highlights the tension between modern digital communication and traditional governance models. For many Tanzanians, social media platforms like X serve as vital tools for business, education, and activism.

“Restricting access to X won’t stop misinformation or indecent content—it just drives it underground,” said one media analyst. “Instead, it limits transparency and accountability.”

International and Regional Context

Tanzania joins a growing list of countries that have temporarily or permanently restricted access to social media platforms in recent years, citing similar concerns.

Neighboring nations such as Uganda and Ethiopia have also implemented social media blackouts during elections or periods of political tension, often sparking backlash from civil society groups and the international community.

Digital rights watchdogs, including Access Now and Paradigm Initiative, have urged the Tanzanian government to reconsider the ban and explore less restrictive measures that protect citizens while respecting their freedom to communicate online.

Uncertain Future for Tanzanian Digital Space

As the restriction continues, questions remain about how the ban will impact Tanzania’s digital economy, international relations, and public trust in government institutions.

While officials insist the measure is temporary, no clear timeline has been provided for when—or if—the ban will be lifted.

For now, Tanzanians are left navigating a restricted digital landscape, where online expression faces growing scrutiny and state oversight.