Regulation

Somalia bans TikTok and Telegram

Somalia bans TikTok and Telegram

Another African country has clamped down on social media. This time it’s Somalia, which has banned TikTok and Telegram.

In fact the country has not only banned the video platform TikTok and the messaging app Telegram, but also online betting website 1XBet, which is popular in Somalia, especially for gambling on football matches.

According to a statement from Communications Minister Jama Hassan Khalif, the aim of the ban is to limit the spread of indecent content and propaganda. He has suggested that “terrorists and immoral groups” are using such platforms “to spread constant horrific images and misinformation to the public”. Internet service providers have until 24 August to comply with the ruling.

According to Reuters, members of the armed group al-Shabab often post about their activities on TikTok and Telegram – and the ban comes as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has said a military offensive against the group is under way.

However, TikTok users in Somalia, who make money from posting videos or promoting their products on the platform, say they oppose the move, suggesting it will affect their income and urging the government to permit public use of TikTok. TikTok has so far not commented, saying it is awaiting an official communication about the ban.

Reuter reports that Telegram has said it “consistently removes terrorist propaganda in Somalia and worldwide”.

TikTok is in a rather odd position. It has faced bans in the United States over its alleged ties to the Chinese government but is also seen as a platform for free speech in places like Senegal, where authorities have blocked access to the social media app.

In fact in June we reported that the government of Senegal had blocked access to all mobile internet services in certain regions of the country amid civil unrest after popular opposition leader Ousmane Sonko was sentenced to two years in prison.



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