A recent report by Top10VPN has highlighted that sub-Saharan Africa lost a staggering $1.5 billion in 2024 due to Internet shutdowns. This figure represents 19% of the total global losses from such disruptions, which amounted to $7.69 billion.
Throughout the year, there were 28 Internet shutdowns across 28 countries, with 13 of these occurring in Africa. The nations affected included Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Algeria, Guinea, Mauritania, Senegal, Mozambique, Chad, Mauritius, Tanzania, Papua New Guinea, and Equatorial Guinea.
Sudan was hit the hardest, losing an estimated $1.12 billion as a result of prolonged Internet disruptions that lasted for more than 12,707 hours, or over 529 days. These shutdowns are largely attributed to ongoing conflicts within the country, which have resulted in approximately 13,000 deaths and displaced more than 10 million people.
Other African nations also faced significant losses due to civil unrest. In Kenya and Ethiopia, Internet access was curtailed in response to protests against government policies. Kenya lost about $75 million, while Ethiopia’s losses reached $211 million.
In Kenya, protests erupted over a controversial Finance Bill proposing higher taxes amid rising economic hardships. The demonstrations began in June 2024 and were primarily led by young people utilizing social media to organize their efforts. The situation escalated dramatically on June 25 when thousands stormed the Kenyan Parliament, resulting in injuries and over 20 fatalities.
