Gabon has lifted restrictions on major social media platforms after the suspension remained in place for eight months, according to the High Authority for Communication (HAC).
The regulator imposed the restrictions in February on platforms including WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram, citing concerns over online abuse, misinformation and content it said threatened national security and social cohesion. The move was criticised by activists who argued it limited internet freedom.
Key developments:
- HAC spokesman Jean Claude Mendome said the suspension was lifted following discussions with international technology companies on improving content moderation.
- Authorities said the restrictions provided time to adapt the country’s legal framework for regulating social media.
- A February regulation introduced requirements for users to provide verified personal information, including names, addresses and identification details.
The decision comes under President Gen. Brice Oligui Nguema, who took power after the 2023 coup that ended the Bongo family’s 55-year rule.
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