Tanzania Minister for Information, Communication and Information Technology, Mr Jerry Silaa, has confirmed that the government has blocked access to X (formerly Twitter) due to allegations that the platform is hosting pornographic content, which contravenes Tanzanian laws.
The minister, while speaking during an interview with a local media outlet, stated that the restriction was a deliberate government measure aimed at enforcing national regulations and values
Mr. Slaa noted that the ”explicit content” on the platform breaches the country’s legal and moral standards. He underscored the government’s responsibility in regulating digital spaces, highlighting the influence of online platforms
‘’Because the internet is like the sky, what you say here will be heard by Tanzanians, whether they like it or not,” he said. “That’s why the government needs to ensure that online content aligns with our national values and laws’’
He cited the 2000 Online Content Regulations, specifically Section 16, which outlines the types of permissible online content. The Minister claims that the changes made to X’s content policies in May 2024, following its 2023 rebranding from Twitter, introduced material that is not in line with Tanzania’s regulations.
‘’’Since X updated its content policies, it has permitted explicit sexual material, including same-sex pornographic content, which directly contradicts Section 16 of the national online ethics guidelines. As a government, we must ensure the safety and well-being of our people, especially the youth. Everything we do is aimed at protecting Tanzanians,” the minister stated
Further to X, the minister also disclosed that other platforms are under the government radar on the type of materials they promote
‘’Even on YouTube, you might notice that some content is inaccessible. That’s part of our broader effort to protect consumers and ensure that all online platforms operating in our country comply with our laws,” he said
The restriction of X has sparked debate among users across the country, many of whom have reported being unable to access the platform without using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
