Tanzania Reconnects: Internet Restored After Election Chaos But Social Media Still Blocked

Tanzania is back online after a tense five-day internet blackout. The shutdown followed chaos and protests over the disputed 2025 General Election. The move left millions cut off from information and communication. Internet access returned shortly after President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s swearing-in.

Global watchdog NetBlocks confirmed the partial restoration. However, social media and messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram and X remain blocked. Many citizens can now browse basic websites but communication is still limited.

The blackout brought the country to a standstill. Businesses were disrupted. Journalists could not report freely. Citizens struggled to verify information as rumors spread. Critics accused the government of using the shutdown to silence dissent and control the election narrative.

NetBlocks said the internet disruption damaged public trust. It also raised questions about the transparency of the election. With online access restricted, observers found it difficult to monitor the vote and report irregularities.

Digital rights groups have welcomed the partial return but demand full restoration. They say online freedom is key to democracy and accountability. Activists are urging the government to lift all restrictions immediately.

The incident has reignited debate on internet blackouts during elections. Across Africa, governments have increasingly used shutdowns to limit information flow. Human rights defenders warn that such actions harm democracy and isolate citizens.

For now, Tanzania is slowly reconnecting. Many people are relieved but still frustrated. The return of basic access is a step forward, yet social media blocks show that full digital freedom is still out of reach.