Sub-Saharan African countries collectively lost $1.56 billion due to government-induced internet shutdowns in 2024, accounting for 19% of the $7.69 billion global loss, according to a report by Top10VPN. This figure marks a 10% reduction from the $1.74 billion lost in 2023. The region experienced 28 shutdowns across 13 nations, including Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Mozambique. Notably, Nigeria avoided internet disruptions, ensuring uninterrupted online access for its citizens.
Sudan faced the highest losses in Africa, with an economic impact of $1.12 billion due to prolonged shutdowns lasting over 12,707 hours amidst ongoing conflict. Other nations like Ethiopia and Kenya resorted to shutdowns during protests, costing $211 million and $75 million, respectively. The restrictions primarily targeted major platforms like WhatsApp, TikTok, and Facebook, disrupting online communication for millions.
Globally, Asia led in internet shutdown losses, with $4.64 billion over 48,807 hours of disruptions. Despite the total economic impact of shutdowns decreasing by 16% compared to the previous year, their duration increased by 12%. The report underscored the significant economic and societal damage caused by these disruptions and raised concerns about citizens resorting to unsafe VPNs to bypass restrictions.