SUB-SAHARAN Africa suffered massive economic losses due to government-imposed Internet shutdowns in 2024, losing a staggering $1.5bn, according to a Top10VPN report. This accounts for 19 percent of the $7.69bn lost globally to digital blackouts.
A total of 13 African nations were affected, with Sudan, Ethiopia, and Kenya bearing the heaviest financial burden. These shutdowns—often imposed during conflicts, protests, or political instability—crippled businesses, silenced dissent, and disrupted daily life.
Sudan: the hardest-hit nation
Sudan suffered the worst financial blow, losing $1.12 bn as its Internet remained down for over 12,707 hours—equivalent to 529 days! The shutdowns were linked to the ongoing conflict that has killed over 13,000 people and displaced more than 10 million. With communication channels cut off, humanitarian efforts and economic activities were severely hampered.
Kenya and Ethiopia: Internet cut during protests
In Kenya, the government shut down the Internet during the intense Finance Bill protests, which erupted in June 2024 over proposed tax hikes. The storming of Parliament on June 25 left over 20 people dead, and fires and clashes engulfed parts of Nairobi. Social media played a key role in mobilising the demonstrations, prompting authorities to cut off access. Kenya lost $75 million due to the blackout.
Similarly, Ethiopia lost $211 million as its Internet was cut during anti-government protests. Authorities have repeatedly used digital blackouts to suppress dissent, often citing security concerns.
Africa’s Internet shutdown crisis
Other African countries affected by Internet blackouts in 2024 include:
- Algeria
- Guinea
- Mauritania
- Senegal
- Mozambique
- Chad
- Mauritius
- Tanzania
- Equatorial Guinea
In contrast, Asia led the world in Internet shutdowns, mostly tied to election-related disruptions rather than conflict.
The bigger picture
Despite global losses from Internet shutdowns dropping from $24.61bn in 2022 to $7.69bn in 2024, Africa remains one of the hardest-hit regions. Digital blackouts not only cripple economies but also violate fundamental rights, blocking access to information and silencing political opposition.
With protests, elections, and conflicts continuing across the continent, the trend of weaponising Internet shutdowns remains a pressing concern for Africa’s digital future.
