Learning from the Worst: Kenya Borrows a Leaf from Peers on Internet Restriction

Learning from the Worst: Kenya Borrows a Leaf from Peers on Internet Restriction

Introduction The rise of the digital age has revolutionized communication, commerce, and governance worldwide. As nations strive to harness the benefits of this transformation, they also grapple with the challenges it brin gogs, particularly in terms of managing dissent and public unrest. Kenya, known for its vibrant tech scene and ambitious digital economy initiatives, has recently faced significant scrutiny due to government-imposed internet restrictions. This article delves into the implications of such actions, comparing Kenya's situation with other African nations, and exploring the broader economic and social consequences. The Incident: Kenya’s First Government-Imposed Internet Restriction On a seemingly ordinary Tuesday, Kenyans experienced a major internet disruption. Connectivity fell to about 42%, impacting not only Kenya but also neighboring Uganda, Burundi, and Rwanda. The disruption was initially attributed to physical damage to undersea cables by leading network provide…