Speaking in a televised interview, Minister of Information, Communication and Technology Jerry Silaa confirmed that the restriction is a deliberate enforcement measure following what the government describes as the platform's failure to comply with local online content regulations.
"Since X updated its content policies in May 2024, it has permitted explicit sexual material, including same-sex pornographic content, which directly contradicts Section 16 of our Online Content Regulations," Silaa said, referring to legislation enacted in 2020.
"Such material is not only illegal under Tanzanian law but undermines our traditions, values, and cultural norms."
Silaa emphasised the government's responsibility in curating a digital environment that reflects the country's ethical standards.
"Because the internet is like the skyâ€"what you say here will be heard by Tanzanians, whether they like it or not. That's why it's important for the government to ensure online content aligns with national values and laws."
The platform has reportedly become inaccessible across the country without the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). The restriction comes amid broader digital surveillance efforts, with Silaa noting that other platforms, including YouTube, have also had content blocked as part of a nationwide crackdown on 'illegal and harmful' digital media.
The restriction follows a recent wave of digital security breaches. On May 20, internet watchdog NetBlocks reported that X was blocked in Tanzania after pornographic content appeared on what was believed to be a hacked official police account.
The account also falsely claimed that President Samia Suluhu Hassan had died. Similar graphic content surfaced on the hacked YouTube account of the Tanzania Revenue Authority.
The platform restriction also coincides with the detention of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is facing a treason charge after threatening to boycott elections unless electoral reforms are enacted. Lissu denies the allegations, calling the charges politically motivated.
Tanzania was also in the spotlight after several prominent East African human rights activists who travelled to Tanzania in solidarity with Lissu were detained or deported.
Kenya's former Justice Minister Martha Karua was turned back upon arrival, while Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire, though initially allowed in, was detained for several days and later alleged that she was blindfolded, violently stripped, and sexually assaulted while in custody. Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi was also briefly detained and reported experiencing torture and assault.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/tanzania-blocks-x-over-unregulated-pornographic-content
