By: Otwari Dominic. O
On January 22, 2025, the National Communications Authority (NCA) of South Sudan issued a directive mandating a nationwide shutdown of all social media platforms for a period of up to 90 days, citing public safety concerns stemming from recent violence in Sudan. While the stated intent is to curb the spread of harmful content, the decision is a serious infringement on constitutional freedoms, international human rights, and the adverse economic implications for businesses dependent on social media.
The Transitional Constitution of South Sudan (2011), under Article 24, guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression and access to information, “Every citizen shall have the right to the freedoms of expression, reception and dissemination of information, publication and access to press without prejudice to public order, safety or morals as prescribed by the law”. By blocking social media platforms, the government not only restrains this fundamental right but also hinders citizens’ ability to share information, express opinions, and engage in public discourse. Social media has become a vital tool for communication, especially in South Sudan with limited access to traditional media. This shutdown silences voices and stifles democratic participation at a time when open dialogue is crucial for addressing the nation’s challenges.
Furthermore, South Sudan is a signatory to international human rights treaties, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Article 19 Clause (2) of the ICCPR affirms the right to freedom of expression, “Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice.” The government’s decision to block social media is in direct contravention of these obligations, signaling a troubling disregard for international norms and principles.
The shutdown also poses significant economic risks. In recent years, social media platforms have emerged as a lifeline for businesses in South Sudan, providing a cost-effective means for marketing, customer engagement, and e-commerce. Entrepreneurs, small business owners, and youth-led startups rely on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to connect with customers and expand their reach. For many, these platforms are not just tools but essential components of their business models.
By cutting off access to these digital tools, the government has effectively stifled economic activity at a time when the nation is already grappling with widespread poverty and unemployment. Businesses that were already struggling to recover from the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts now face yet another hurdle. The ripple effects will
likely include reduced revenues, job losses, and diminished investor confidence in South Sudan’s digital economy.
While the NCA claims the shutdown is necessary to address harmful content and ensure public safety, such actions often erode public trust in government institutions. A blanket ban on social media not only fails to address the root causes of the violence but also sets a dangerous precedent for the arbitrary restriction of digital freedoms. Instead of fostering an environment of transparency and accountability, the move raises concerns about censorship and the suppression of dissenting voices.
Moreover, the shutdown undermines the very principles of digital transformation that the government has sought to promote. In an increasingly interconnected world, access to social media is not a luxury but a necessity for personal, professional, and societal development. The decision to cut off access sends a contradictory message about South Sudan’s commitment to embracing technology and innovation.
While public safety is a legitimate concern, the means to achieve it must not come at the expense of fundamental rights and economic progress. The government should explore alternative measures to address harmful content, such as enhancing digital literacy, promoting responsible online behavior, and working with social media companies to tackle misinformation.
The NCA’s decision to impose a social media blackout is a step backward for South Sudan’s democratic and economic aspirations. It is imperative for the government to reconsider this directive and strike a balance between maintaining public safety and upholding the rights of its citizens. Only through open dialogue, transparency, and respect for freedoms can the government chart a path for its citizens towards sustainable peace and development.
The writer is an economist and a prominent voice for youth advocacy, can be reached on
otwaridominico@gmail.com