Report: Six African Countries Restricted Internet Access Due to Protests or Political Crisis

Internet Shutdowns in Africa: A Growing Concern

Introduction

A cyber security company has reported that six African countries, including war-torn Sudan, implemented internet restrictions within their territories during the first half of 2023. This is twice the number of nations compared to the same period in 2022. The increasing trend of internet shutdowns in Africa is a cause for concern and raises questions about the impact on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Internet Shutdowns in Africa

1. Netherlands-based Surfshark recorded a total of 42 new internet disruptions worldwide, with nine occurring in Africa.
2. The following six countries accounted for these shutdowns: Ethiopia, Guinea, Mauritania, Senegal, Sudan, and Tanzania.
3. Each of these countries imposed one or two different restrictions on internet access.

The Impact of Internet Shutdowns

Ethiopia, which had previously enforced internet shutdowns due to ethnic unrest, recently lifted its restrictions. However, Sudan continues to face internet restrictions exacerbated by the ongoing war, which has damaged infrastructure and disrupted electricity supply in many areas.

Tariq Ahmed, who recently left Sudan, shared the challenges he faced in communicating with his humanitarian colleagues in the western part of the country. The internet shutdown prevented him from reaching out to them and ensuring their safety during this difficult time. The situation only improved when one of his colleagues managed to cross the border into Chad and contacted him through a Chadian number on WhatsApp.

Reasons for Internet Shutdowns

According to Egle Grasys, a representative of Surfshark, authorities in Africa typically enforce internet shutdowns in response to protests, conflicts, and political crises. These measures are aimed at preventing the public from organizing gatherings and spreading information about protests through social media and the internet.

Grasys emphasizes that these restrictions not only hinder the right to protest but also limit the ability to raise awareness about such issues on a global scale.

Conclusion

The increasing number of internet shutdowns in Africa is a matter of concern, as it directly affects the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Access to the internet is crucial for promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, ensuring quality education, and fostering innovation and technological advancements. Efforts should be made to address the underlying causes of these shutdowns and find solutions that uphold the principles of freedom of expression and access to information.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

• Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements
• Indicator 16.10.2: Number of countries that have adopted and implemented constitutional, statutory, and/or policy guarantees for public access to information

2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

• Target 9.c: Significantly increase access to information and communications technology and strive to provide universal and affordable access to the Internet in least developed countries by 2020
• Indicator 9.c.1: Proportion of population covered by a mobile network, by technology
• Indicator 9.c.2: Proportion of population covered by fixed Internet broadband networks, by technology

Analysis

The article discusses internet shutdowns and restrictions in African countries, particularly in Sudan. These issues are connected to the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), targets, and indicators:

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

The restrictions on internet access in response to protests and political crises align with SDG 16, which aims to promote peace, justice, and strong institutions. Target 16.10 specifically focuses on ensuring public access to information and protecting fundamental freedoms. The article highlights how internet shutdowns hinder the public’s ability to organize and communicate during demonstrations, limiting their freedom of expression and assembly.

Indicator 16.10.2, which measures the number of countries that have adopted and implemented guarantees for public access to information, is relevant to monitor progress in this area. The article indirectly implies that the countries mentioned have not implemented such guarantees, as they enforce internet restrictions.

2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

The article also touches upon SDG 9, which focuses on industry, innovation, and infrastructure. Target 9.c specifically aims to increase access to information and communications technology, including universal and affordable access to the internet. The internet shutdowns and restrictions mentioned in the article hinder progress towards this target, as they limit people’s access to the internet.

Indicators 9.c.1 and 9.c.2, which measure the proportion of the population covered by mobile networks and fixed internet broadband networks, respectively, are relevant to monitor progress in providing universal access to the internet. The article indirectly implies that the countries experiencing internet shutdowns have limited coverage and access to these technologies.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: voanews.com

Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.