South Sudan shuts down social media for 30 days

The South Sudan government has ordered the suspension of all social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok, for 30 days, citing concerns over violent content circulating online.  

In a statement on Wednesday, January 22, the South Sudan National Communication Authority (NCA) raised alarm over disturbing images and videos depicting violence against South Sudanese living in Sudan.  

“This is culminating from the recent upheaval in Sudan that has exposed the South Sudanese population to unprecedented levels of extreme violence through social media posts," NCA Director Napoleon Adok stated.

The move follows the circulation of a viral video showing violent attacks on South Sudanese refugees in Wēd Medan, Sudan, leading to the deaths of women and children.  

The NCA said the suspension, effective from midnight Thursday, was imposed under national laws, citing threats to public safety. 

The ban may be extended to 90 days if the situation remains unresolved.  

The directive has sparked concern among social media users, but major telecommunication companies in South Sudan have confirmed compliance with the order.  

“MTN South Sudan wishes to inform its esteemed customers that following a directive received by the telecom industry, access and usage, direct or otherwise, of Facebook application, Facebook web, TikTok application, and TikTok web and their related messaging applications have been suspended for a maximum period of 90 days," said MTN in a statement. 

This is not the first time internet disruption is happening in South Sudan. In August 2021, the country experienced a 15-hour internet blackout, which authorities attributed to technical issues.