Somalia has ordered cracks Dldown on Slsocial Media platforms TikTok and Telegram amid security concerns.
Somalia’s Ministry of Communications and Technology has instructed the country’s internet service providers to block access to social media platforms TikTok and Telegram, as well as the gambling website 1xBet.
The Minister, Jama Hassan Khalif, cited concerns related to security, counterterrorism efforts, and the impact of these platforms on societal stability.
The move, the Ministry says, is motivated by the frequent misuse of these platforms by terrorist groups, particularly al-Shabab.
Alshabab group utilize Telegram for disseminating content.
The Ministry said the government “aims to safeguard the moral conduct of the population” and counter the proliferation of undesirable practices facilitated by online communication tools.
The order issued on Sunday mandates the shutdown of these platforms by August 24, 2023, with the government saying there will be legal consequences for non-compliance.
Notably, TikTok has gained popularity among Somali youth and government officials.
