Conflict in the DRC: X, TikTok, and other social networks suspended in several cities ⚠️

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Since the weekend of February 1st, several Congolese cities have been cut off from X and TikTok. Officially, no announcement has been made, but everything suggests that this decision aims to limit the spread of false information about the country’s situation. However, this measure could have unexpected consequences.

Access blocked in several cities ⛔

Since Saturday, residents of Kinshasa, Goma, Lubumbashi, Bukavu, and Kalemie can no longer access these social networks. When they try to connect, an error message appears. However, those using a VPN manage to bypass this restriction, confirming that access has indeed been blocked.

This shutdown is not an isolated case. According to the organization NetBlocks, Google Play Store is also restricted, making it more difficult to download VPNs. It seems that the authorities are not only trying to limit access to social networks but also to prevent users from bypassing these restrictions.

A criticized measure 🔍

For some residents, this shutdown is a source of frustration. In messages shared on Facebook, users express their anger against the blockade. For example, Natasha Mingu Andréa, a regular TikTok user, regrets not being able to watch videos anymore. According to her, even though TikTok contained false information, it was also a way to stay updated on the country’s news.

Paulin Ndanda, a mobile credit vendor, explains that TikTok was also a source of entertainment for him. « There was certainly false information, but also fun videos that helped us unwind, » he told RFI.

A decision that could be counterproductive ❗

If the authorities aim to limit rumors, some experts believe this measure could have the opposite effect. According to Qemal Affagnon, coordinator of Internet Without Borders in West Africa, blocking social networks can encourage the spread of unverified information. Indeed, without access to reliable sources, rumors can spread even faster.

Ange Kasongo, editor-in-chief of the fact-checking site Balobaki, shares this concern. According to her, by preventing the dissemination of information, it also becomes harder to debunk false news circulating about the conflict in eastern DRC.

A political decision? 🏛️

So far, the Congolese government has not officially confirmed the social media shutdown. However, Elie Mugisho, an official of the UDPS (the ruling party), suggests that the decision does indeed come from the authorities. He calls on the population to be patient, explaining that the state is « doing everything to neutralize the Rwandan enemy. » He adds that access to social media could be restored once the situation stabilizes, but with certain restrictions.

In response to this situation, Congolese citizens have mixed reactions. Some denounce an attack on freedom of expression, while others see positive aspects in this shutdown.

What do you think about the social media shutdown in the DRC? Let us know in the comments 🙂‍↔️