Internet Shutdowns Cost Africa Hundreds of Millions as Global Losses Hit $19.7 Billion in 2025
Regional digital rights advocates called for stronger safeguards and clearer legal frameworks to prevent future shutdowns, noting that connectivity is increasingly essential for economic growth, education, and civic participation in Africa.
In 2025, deliberate internet outages became more widespread and economically damaging than ever before — with significant impacts felt across Africa. According to the latest Cost of Internet Shutdowns report, global losses from intentional shutdowns surged to $19.7 billion, a 156% increase compared with 2024.
Across the continent, several countries experienced extended connectivity disruptions that cut into economic activity and everyday life. Tanzania faced nearly 7,000 hours of shutdowns, translating into losses of approximately $889.8 million and affecting over 20 million internet users. Other African nations also saw notable impacts: Congo DRC, Sudan, Togo, Cameroon, South Sudan, Guinea-Bissau, and Kenya recorded shutdown events that together contributed over 24,000 hours of lost connectivity across the region.
While African shutdown costs were smaller than those in Europe or Asia, the disruptions still inflicted major harm on local economies and digital inclusion. Kenya logged multiple hours of disruption affecting more than 23 million users, and smaller states such as Togo and Cameroon grappled with substantial hours of social media blocks that cut off citizens from vital communication platforms.
Experts say these shutdowns — often imposed for reasons such as “information control” or security — not only hamper business operations but also restrict access to essential services, communications, and market platforms across borders. In many cases, African shutdowns included blocks of social media and messaging apps, a tactic that disproportionately affects small businesses, freelancers, and remote workers who rely on digital connectivity.
Despite their frequency, targeted and limited shutdowns on the continent — such as brief blocks during national exams — tended to have a lower economic footprint, suggesting that more precise, time-bound restrictions can reduce overall damage.
Regional digital rights advocates called for stronger safeguards and clearer legal frameworks to prevent future shutdowns, noting that connectivity is increasingly essential for economic growth, education, and civic participation in Africa.
