In brief
Gabon’s High Communication Authority announced the end of an eight‑month social‑media ban imposed in February, a decision that came amid political tension and widespread criticism. The ban had been justified by officials as a measure against online incitement, yet citizens largely circumvented it with VPNs. The reversal follows accusations of power abuse by President Brice Oligui Nguema, who had won a controversial 2025 election. Youths, who rely on platforms like Facebook and TikTok for commerce and communication, welcome the restoration of digital connectivity.
Gabon lifts its long‑standing social‑media blockade, signalling a change in policy after months of unrest and censorship.
The High Communication Authority announced on Saturday that the ban, imposed on 17 February, is now lifted. The decision follows criticism from civil society and a growing use of VPNs to bypass the restriction.
The move came at a time of political tension, with President Brice Oligui Nguema facing strikes by teachers and civil servants and accusations that the suspension was an abuse of power.
Social media had been a key platform for younger Gabonese people, who used it for business and engagement. The lifting of the ban is expected to ease digital blackouts that previous governments used to control information.
