In a recent move to counter the proliferation of inappropriate content and extremist propaganda, Somalia’s Communications Minister, Jama Hassan Khalif, has announced the banning of popular platforms TikTok and Telegram, as well as the online betting site 1XBet. This decision aims to curb the dissemination of harmful images and misleading information that terrorist organizations and immoral groups exploit to manipulate the public perception.
The directive, which was issued by the minister, has mandated internet service providers to enforce the ban by August 24. Addressing the urgency of the matter, Minister Khalif stated, “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.”
The decision coincides with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s recent declaration of a military offensive against al-Shabab, with the goal of eliminating the al-Qaeda-linked group within the next five months. The government’s determination to combat extremism has led to this comprehensive ban on platforms that contribute to the dissemination of dangerous content.
While TikTok declined to comment on the matter until receiving official communication, Telegram released a statement affirming their commitment to removing terrorist propaganda both in Somalia and globally. Telegram also asserted that they actively monitor and remove harmful content on their platform.
The ban’s impact on users has evoked mixed reactions. Numerous TikTok users in Somalia, who rely on the platform for income through video content and promotions, are opposed to the move. Abdulkadir Ali Mohamed, self-dubbed Somalia’s “TikTok President,” expressed concerns that the ban would affect livelihoods. Halimo Hassan, a TikTok user engaged in selling gold, echoed these concerns and urged the government to find a balance between allowing the platform while regulating its usage within Somalia’s cultural context.
Additionally, the ban extends to the popular online betting website 1XBet, which has a significant following in Somalia, particularly for gambling on football matches.
It’s worth noting that TikTok has previously faced potential bans in other regions, including the United States, due to alleged ties to the Chinese government. The state of Montana in the US became the first to ban the app in May.
As Somalia takes a decisive step towards curbing the spread of harmful content and propaganda online, the outcome of this ban and its implications for the country’s digital landscape remain to be seen.
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