On Tuesday, MTN South Sudan announced that its customers’ access to Facebook and TikTok had been restored. This decision followed a temporary ban imposed by the National Communications Authority (NCA) earlier in the month.
The ban was meant to stop violence after disturbing videos on social media caused riots and deadly attacks in South Sudan.
The initial ban was implemented on January 22, 2025, with the NCA directing all internet service providers to block access to social media for up to 90 days.
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Human rights organisations, including Amnesty International, widely criticised this move, describing the ban as “disproportionate and setting a dangerous precedent.”
Background of the ban
The ban was a response to violent unrest in South Sudan, triggered by videos showing the killings of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan’s El Gezira state. The NCA’s directive aimed to prevent the escalation of violence by blocking access to social media platforms.
Critics said the ban violates freedom of expression and access to information, protected by South Sudan’s constitution.
Lifting of the ban
The ban was lifted after the NCA successfully removed graphic and inflammatory content from the platforms.
Napoleon Adok Gai, NCA Director General, stated, “We are pleased to report that the primary objective of removing graphic and inflammatory content has been successfully achieved”.
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MTN South Sudan welcomed the decision, thanking its customers for their patience and reaffirming its commitment to supporting regulators in promoting a safer digital environment.
Zain South Sudan also celebrated the lifting of the ban and expressed gratitude to its customers and regulators for their efforts.
Amnesty International urged an end to the ban, citing harm to free speech and information access. Its removal was welcomed, allowing South Sudanese to reconnect and access vital information.