How have you ever been disrupted by an internet shutdown? How did it feel or affect you?
If you are living in Kenya, this is not new to you. Kenya has experienced significant internet disruptions in the last six months, most notably the total internet shutdown on June 25, 2024, and the targeted Telegram shutdown in November 2024. These events, while distinct in execution, highlight the growing threat to democracy and civil rights in an increasingly digital society. The implications of such shutdowns are vast, affecting freedom of expression, access to information, economic stability, and the safety of vulnerable communities.
The June 25 internet shutdown for instance cut off access not only across Kenya but also extending its effects to the broader East African region. The government’s stated justification was to address security concerns during a politically volatile period. However, the consequences went far beyond maintaining order. Millions of citizens were plunged into an information blackout, unable to access critical updates on safety, political developments, or even basic communication with loved ones. The shutdown crippled the economy, particularly for small businesses and entrepreneurs who depend on the internet for their livelihoods. Entire communities were left vulnerable, unable to seek help or document abuses during instances of violence involving military and police operations.
The November Telegram shutdown on the other hand , while more targeted, also carried its own set of challenges. The government said it was to curb the KCSE exams malpractices but the move raises more concerns on the increasing control over digital platforms. For many, Telegram is a vital tool for organizing, sharing information, and engaging in public conversations. Its temporary removal silenced many voices, hindering activism and the dissemination of crucial information.
These actions strike at the core of democratic principles. Freedom of expression, a cornerstone of any democracy, was severely curtailed. Social media and messaging platforms, which have become modern-day public squares, were rendered inaccessible. Activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens who rely on these platforms to voice opinions, report injustices, and hold leaders accountable found themselves gagged. The restrictions also impacted Kenya’s electoral processes, where the internet is a key tool for voter education, campaign outreach, and election monitoring. Without access, trust in democratic institutions eroded further.
The economic toll of these shutdowns cannot be understated. Small businesses, which form the backbone of Kenya’s economy, were disproportionately affected. Entrepreneurs dependent on online sales, marketing, and communication faced significant losses. The broader digital economy, a crucial driver of growth, suffered millions in daily losses during the blackout periods. Beyond monetary losses, the shutdowns had a chilling effect on digital activism. Many individuals and organizations hesitated to engage online, fearing surveillance or punitive actions. This self-censorship weakened civil society’s role in driving accountability and reforms.
Lessons from these events are clear. They reveal the fragility of Kenya’s digital rights and the urgent need for stronger protections. Citizens and civil society must advocate for legal frameworks to prevent arbitrary internet disruptions. Legislation should explicitly prohibit such actions, ensuring compliance with international human rights standards. The government must also commit to transparency, providing justifiable reasons for restrictions and adhering to due process.
Do we need decentralized internet infrastructure to overcome the shutdowns? Internet shutdowns, whether total or targeted, pose a grave threat to democracy and civil rights. While security concerns may sometimes warrant restrictions, they should never come at the expense of constitutional freedoms. Kenya must learn from these disruptions and implement reforms to ensure a more open, inclusive, and democratic digital future. By doing so, the country can protect its citizens’ rights while fostering trust, transparency, and progress in an interconnected world.