Tanzania has blocked access to the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, citing the presence of pornographic material that violates national laws and cultural norms, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
Information Minister Jerry Silaa told a local television station that the government’s decision was based on X’s policy allowing “consensually produced and distributed” adult content. He argued that such material, including depictions of homosexuality, is incompatible with Tanzanian laws and traditional values.
“This contradicts our regulations,” Silaa said. “X now has pornography and homosexuality, which are all contrary to our country’s laws, culture, customs, and traditions.”
Access to X was cut off on May 20, coinciding with the hacking of official government accounts, including the police force’s X profile. Hackers used the account to falsely announce the death of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. On the same day, the Tanzania Revenue Authority’s YouTube account was also breached and reportedly used to spread pornographic content.
While authorities have linked the shutdown to content violations, the move comes amid mounting criticism of the government’s tightening grip on opposition voices ahead of elections in October. Tanzania has a history of limiting access to social media platforms during politically sensitive periods.
Silaa said the government continues to monitor online platforms for violations of Tanzanian law, suggesting that similar actions could be taken against other services.
“If you notice that certain content on YouTube or other networks is suddenly unavailable, then know the government is acting to protect consumers,” he said.