Internet connectivity in Tanzania is slowly returning after a five day nationwide shutdown, but access to key social media and messaging platforms remains heavily restricted.

According to global internet observatory NetBlocks, live data shows ongoing disruptions affecting Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Telegram and X (formerly Twitter) across major networks including Airtel, Tigo and Vodacom.

NetBlocks said the continued restrictions were limiting communication and the free flow of information. “Live metrics show widespread restrictions to multiple social media and messaging platforms as #Tanzania comes back online after a five-day internet shutdown; the incident continues to limit election transparency and the free flow of information,” the organization said in a statement on X.

The partial restoration comes just hours after President Samia Suluhu Hassan was sworn in for a new term following a tense election period marked by protests, arrests and reports of low voter turnout.

Data shared by NetBlocks indicates that while some connectivity has returned, many online services are still not loading or are only partially functioning. Facebook’s website and content delivery network show limited access, while Instagram’s login and image features remain unstable. WhatsApp although now working, is reported to have frequent message delivery failures and X faces near-total disruption with users unable to upload images, watch videos, or even access links.

The situation appears consistent across the country’s main service providers, suggesting coordinated restrictions rather than technical issues.

Meanwhile, a text message circulating from the Tanzanian Police warns citizens against sharing photos or videos that could “cause panic” or “undermine someone’s dignity,” adding that doing so is a criminal offense and that legal action will be taken against offenders.