In 2024, Africa witnessed its highest number of government-ordered internet shutdowns on record: 21 shutdowns across 15 countries, according to new reports from Access Now and #KeepItOn. These blackouts, often imposed during protests, political unrest, conflict, or elections, highlight a disturbing trend of weaponising connectivity to suppress dissent and limit access to information.
The cost has been devastating. Sub-Saharan Africa alone lost an estimated US$1.5–1.56 billion last year due to shutdowns, nearly 20% of the global economic losses linked to internet restrictions. Sudan bore the heaviest brunt, recording more than 12,700 hours of disruptions — the equivalent of 529 days across various regions — and losing over $1.12 billion in economic activity. Beyond money, the shutdowns crippled daily life: about 111.2 million people across the continent were denied access to education platforms, financial transactions, news updates, and even emergency communication. Lives, jobs, and civic freedoms were all placed on pause.
The outlook is deeply concerning. Shutdowns have doubled since 2016, climbing from 14 to 28 in 2024. In some cases, the blackouts have become prolonged, almost permanent. Parts of Sudan remain disconnected, while Annobón in Equatorial Guinea has endured nearly a year-long blackout following protests over environmental harm. The impact of such measures stretches far beyond temporary inconvenience: businesses collapse from lost revenue, remote workers are cut off, health and education services fail, and digital commerce stalls in its tracks.
What must change, experts argue, is the culture of impunity that allows such shutdowns to persist. Governments across the continent will need to strengthen accountability systems and adopt legal frameworks that protect digital rights. Telecom operators, too, have a role to play by resisting pressure to enforce blanket shutdowns without oversight. Civil society and international bodies must remain vigilant, pushing back against unjustified blackouts while advocating for transparency. At the same time, Africa must invest in more resilient internet infrastructure, diversifying network routes and creating backup systems to reduce the impact of future restrictions.
If left unchecked, internet shutdowns risk widening Africa’s digital divide into a chasm, cutting off millions from opportunities in education, health, trade, and governance. But with deliberate safeguards and stronger advocacy, the continent can begin to reclaim its digital future from the shadows of disconnection.
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