Relief in South Sudan as regulator lifts ban on social media platforms.
A Facebook and TikTok application restriction order that had previously affected MTN and Zain South Sudan subscribers has been lifted, starting today.
Authorities imposed the blackout, which included the suspension of the social media platform’s web sites, on January 23 for at least 30 days after recordings of purported South Sudanese killings in Sudan’s El Gezira state sparked rioting and deadly reprisal assaults.
According to the National Communication Authority (NCA), the suspension was intended to prevent further escalation of violence.
MTN, South Sudan’s largest mobile operator with 1.7 million subscribers, applauded the early lifting of the restriction order.
“MTN South Sudan thanks its esteemed customers for their patience during the restriction order and will continue to support the regulators, NCA and Media Authority, in their mandate to promote a safer digital space for all South Sudanese” according to the company statement.
Zain South Sudan, which was similarly affected by the blockade, celebrated the reopening of popular platforms.
“Big news for all Zain users. Starting 28th January 2025, the restrictions on Facebook and TikTok have officially been lifted. You can now connect, create, and share freely on your favorite platforms using the Zain network. A huge thank you to our customers for your patience and to the regulators, NCA and Media Authority for their efforts in ensuring a safer digital space for South Sudan. Together, we’re building a more connected future,” it wrote on Facebook.
Amnesty International joined a chorus of human rights and public voices calling for the immediate lifting of the blanket ban on social media.
“The order to restrict all access to social media platforms is disproportionate and sets a dangerous precedent, especially when South Sudanese authorities have previously blocked news websites and disrupted the internet,” according to an Amnesty International statement.
