In a move to combat the spread of indecent content and propaganda, Somalia’s communications minister has announced the banning of popular platforms TikTok and Telegram, along with the online betting website 1XBet.
Communications Minister Jama Hassan Khalif issued the directive, urging internet companies to halt the operation of these applications. He cited concerns that these platforms were being exploited by “terrorists and immoral groups” to disseminate disturbing images and misleading information to the public.
Notably, members of the insurgent group al-Shabaab have frequently utilized TikTok and Telegram to share updates about their activities.
This decision comes shortly after Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared a military offensive against al Shabaab, with the goal of eliminating the al Qaeda-linked organization within the next five months.
While TikTok declined to comment, stating they were awaiting official communication regarding the ban, Telegram released a statement asserting its commitment to removing terrorist propaganda both in Somalia and globally. The messaging app also highlighted its proactive efforts to moderate harmful content on its platform.
As for 1XBet, the online betting website has not responded to Reuters’ requests for comment on the ban.
The ban on TikTok has prompted concern among several Somali users who rely on the platform for income, either by posting videos or promoting their products and services. Abdulkadir Ali Mohamed, known as Somalia’s “TikTok President,” lamented the impact on livelihoods, saying, “The ban on TikTok will make the lights of many homes go off. Where will we get our daily bread?”
Halimo Hassan, a TikTok user engaged in selling gold, expressed worries about losing customers and appealed to the government to permit TikTok’s use with controlled guidelines that align with Somali cultural norms.
The order issued to internet service providers mandates compliance by August 24.
1XBet is particularly popular in Somalia for betting, particularly on soccer matches.
It is worth noting that TikTok has faced the threat of bans in other countries, including the United States, over concerns regarding its alleged ties to the Chinese government. The state of Montana in the U.S. became the first to ban the app in May.
As the ban takes effect in Somalia, it reflects the broader global debate about balancing the benefits of social media and online platforms with the need for responsible content moderation and national security considerations.