It seems that one needs to fly overseas to have peace of mind when using social media. Internet monitoring in Africa has gained momentum again as Egypt too has joined the list of countries that regulate social media use of its citizens.
Before now, the Ugandan government mandated a tax of 200 shillings daily to use social networks, while Zambia recently imposed a $0.03 daily tariff charged on internet calls in the country. Now, the Egyptian president has passed a billed where it is allowed to monitor social media users as part of the internet tightening controls.
This action by the president would give the Supreme Council for Media Regulation the power to supervise people who have more than 5000 followers on social media or personal blog. They would also have the power to suspend or block accounts that post fake news that incite violence, hate and violation of the law.
In opposition to this, right groups have branded this law as an attempt by the government to limiting freedom of expression online. However, over 500 websites have already been blocked even before the new law took effect.
Now, Egyptians with 5k or more followers on Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook and other social networks are being strictly monitored. How long do you think it would take before this social Media Regulation reaches our beloved Nigeria and the rest of Africa?
Before now, the Ugandan government mandated a tax of 200 shillings daily to use social networks, while Zambia recently imposed a $0.03 daily tariff charged on internet calls in the country. Now, the Egyptian president has passed a billed where it is allowed to monitor social media users as part of the internet tightening controls.
This action by the president would give the Supreme Council for Media Regulation the power to supervise people who have more than 5000 followers on social media or personal blog. They would also have the power to suspend or block accounts that post fake news that incite violence, hate and violation of the law.
In opposition to this, right groups have branded this law as an attempt by the government to limiting freedom of expression online. However, over 500 websites have already been blocked even before the new law took effect.
Now, Egyptians with 5k or more followers on Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook and other social networks are being strictly monitored. How long do you think it would take before this social Media Regulation reaches our beloved Nigeria and the rest of Africa?
Sooner 😌
ReplyDeleteIf Buhari happens to win come 2019. 😓
ReplyDelete