By Frank Kamuntu
In an effort to curb the spread of indecent content and propaganda, Somalia has enacted a ban on popular digital platforms including TikTok, messaging app Telegram, and online-betting website 1XBet, according to the country’s communications minister.
Jama Hassan Khalif, the minister of communications, issued a statement on Sunday late evening, detailing the decision.
“The minister of communications orders internet companies to stop the aforementioned applications, which terrorists and immoral groups use to spread constant horrific images and misinformation to the public,” Khalif said in a statement late on Sunday.
Notably, insurgent group al Shabaab has been observed frequently utilising platforms like TikTok and Telegram to disseminate information about their activities.
This move by Somalia’s authorities follows recent comments from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who articulated that a military operation against al Shabaab is aimed at eradicating the al Qaeda-linked group within the next five months.
Internet service providers have been granted until August 24 to implement the necessary compliance measures, as per the order.
Worth noting is that 1XBet holds popularity in Somalia for its online betting services, particularly related to soccer matches.
TikTok, previously embroiled in controversies over its alleged connections to the Chinese government, has also faced potential bans in other parts of the world, including the United States. Montana became the first US state to officially ban the app in May, signifying the growing global concerns over its usage and implications.
Last week, New York City has officially barred the use of TikTok on government-owned devices, citing apprehensions over security. The popular short-form video platform, with a user base exceeding 150 million Americans, falls under the ownership of Chinese tech conglomerate ByteDance.
This decision is part of a growing trend that has seen US lawmakers advocate for prohibitions on the app due to potential Chinese government influence.
According to a statement released by the administration of Mayor Eric Adams, TikTok was identified as a potential “security threat to the city’s technical networks.” As a result, all New York City agencies are mandated to uninstall the application within a 30-day window. This action entails a revocation of app access for city employees, extending to both the app and its corresponding website, on devices and networks owned by the city.
This move follows a prior decision by New York State to bar TikTok on mobile devices issued by the state.
