Tanzania’s economy has been dealt a heavy blow, losing more than Ksh30 billion due to internet disruptions during the election period and the ongoing block on X (formerly Twitter), according to a new report by Paradigm Initiative (PIN).
The organisation says the country was completely offline between October 29 and November 3, 2025, for a total of 126 hours. During this period, businesses, media, and digital platforms were paralysed, resulting in estimated losses of USD 72.3 million (TZS 178 billion or Sh9 billion).
The report further indicates that the continued suspension of X, which started on May 21, 2025, has caused additional losses amounting to USD 165.8 million (TZS 408 billion or Sh21 billion). Combined, the two measures have drained more than USD 238 million (TZS 586 billion or Sh30 billion) from the economy.
PIN said the figures were obtained using the NetBlocks Cost of Shutdown Tool (COST), a global model endorsed by the United Nations, governments, and researchers to estimate the financial and social impact of internet restrictions.
“The economic losses are only part of the damage. Every shutdown destroys trust and limits opportunities. Governments must understand that connectivity today is not a luxury—it is essential for progress,” said PIN Executive Director ‘Gbenga Sesan.
“Shutting down the internet silences voices, disrupts livelihoods, and pushes nations backward,” he added.
The organisation criticised Tanzania’s actions, saying they undermine fundamental freedoms protected under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. It referred to Articles 9, 19, and 22, which uphold freedom of expression, access to information, and the right to development.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi on Wednesday, PIN’s regional representative Miriam Beatrice Wanjiru said the blackouts had far-reaching consequences beyond immediate financial losses.
“In 2025, internet access is not optional—it’s part of how people express themselves and take part in national conversations. Blocking it during an election is a direct violation of human rights,” said Wanjiru.
She pointed out that the losses incurred in just five days were triple the annual budget for Tanzania’s Ministry of ICT.
“That money could have strengthened essential sectors such as technology, healthcare, and education. Instead, it has been wasted because of politically motivated shutdowns,” she said.
PIN has called on the Tanzanian government to lift the restrictions on X and other blocked platforms, refrain from shutting down the internet during political periods, and ensure transparency from Internet Service Providers whenever they are instructed to limit access. The organisation also announced plans to seek legal redress both in Tanzanian courts and at the East African Court of Justice.
