Tanzania Blocks X Over Pornographic Content

Tanzania has blocked access to X (formerly Twitter), arguing that the platform promotes explicit content that violates national laws and cultural values. Minister of Information, Communication, and Information Technology Jerry Silaa announced the ban, stating, “X allows sexually explicit material, including same-sex pornography. That content is against our online ethics and has no place in our society.”

Officials insist the move protects citizens, especially young people, from inappropriate material. Silaa added, “Even on YouTube, you might notice that some content is inaccessible. That’s part of our consumer protection efforts.”

However, the decision has sparked controversy. Digital rights advocates argue that this fits a pattern of online suppression, particularly ahead of national elections. The Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) criticized the timing, saying, “This move fits a troubling pattern of digital repression.”

Similar restrictions occurred before the 2020 elections. Other platforms, including Clubhouse and Telegram, now face accessibility issues. Many Tanzanians resort to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to stay connected. LHRC questioned the government’s consistency: “Government accounts are still active on X while ordinary citizens can’t access it without VPNs. That inconsistency confuses the public and undermines trust.”

Meanwhile, cyberattacks have intensified. On May 20, hackers infiltrated Tanzania’s national police X account, spreading false claims, including one about President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s death. The tax authority’s YouTube channel was also compromised. Officials cite these breaches to justify tighter control over online spaces.

Tanzania’s decision sets a precedent for digital governance in the region. The government defends the ban as necessary for protecting cultural norms, while critics warn that it threatens free speech and limits access to information.