Meta has restricted the Instagram account of prominent Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi-Tsehai inside Tanzania following a government order, intensifying concerns over mounting digital censorship ahead of planned Independence Day protests on December 9.
In a separate development, the accounts of U.S.-based Tanzanian critic Mange Kimambi followed by 2.7 million people were removed under Meta’s “recidivism policy.” Kimambi disputes the explanation, alleging the takedown is politically motivated and intended to silence post-election mobilization efforts.
Meta’s acknowledgment of limiting Sarungi-Tsehai’s visibility marks a rare public admission of compliance with a government directive in Tanzania. The company said it acted in line with legal requirements but denied that authorities played any role in the deletion of Kimambi’s accounts.
Sarungi-Tsehai, a fierce critic of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, condemned Meta’s actions and urged U.S. lawmakers to investigate. She accused the platform of enabling “crimes against humanity” by suppressing dissent in the wake of October’s contested elections, which were marred by violence that left hundreds dead.
A U.S. senator criticized the restrictions, highlighting what he described as Big Tech’s growing complicity in political repression across Africa, even as Washington reassesses aspects of its aid relationship with Tanzania.
Digital Controls Deepen After Election Unrest
The Tanzanian government banned nationwide protests on December 3 and canceled Independence Day celebrations scheduled for December 9, announcing the funds would instead be used to repair damage from earlier riots. These moves follow a series of repressive measures in October, including an internet shutdown, the blocking of some 80,000 websites, and the use of lethal force against demonstrators actions that drew sharp condemnation from the United Nations for targeting civilians and journalists.
Activists such as Kimambi, known for circulating protest calls, say the recent account removals reflect an effort to prevent renewed mobilization, mirroring tactics previously seen in Ethiopia and Uganda.
With approximately 6.75 million social media users about 9.7% of the population Tanzania’s crackdown has raised alarms about shrinking digital freedoms. Rights groups warn that the government is testing a “censorship killswitch,” while Meta’s Oversight Board has remained silent amid growing global scrutiny.
