In brief
The Gabonese High Communication Authority unbanned Facebook, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram after an 8‑month restriction aimed at curbing perceived divisive content. The decision followed widespread criticism, teacher strikes and a broader push for reform that emerged after a recent coup. Users had increasingly relied on VPNs to bypass the block, highlighting the demand for digital connectivity. President Brice Oligui Nguema’s new stance marks a shift in state control over online media, though observers warn that restrictions could return amid fragile politics.
Gabon says it has lifted a ban on social media imposed eight months ago – a move that sparked criticism at the time.
The High Communication Authority (HAC) announced a U‑turn last Saturday in a televised statement, reversing the 17 February ban it had imposed on Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and other platforms.
The restriction was justified as a response to stories that the government alleged were inflaming division and fomenting unrest.
The ban caught the country of about 2.5 million at a moment when the president’s regime faced protests, teacher and civil‑service strikes, and a broader push for reforms following a 2022 coup.
Many Gabonese users resorted to VPNs to bypass the block, underscoring the demand for online connectivity.
President Brice Oligui Nguema, who won last year’s election with more than 90 % of the vote, had overseen previous digital blackouts to control information; the new decision marks a shift in the state’s approach to media scrutiny.
The relaunch is expected to restore normalcy, yet observers caution that the fragile political landscape could still see further restrictions.
