Feb 27 • 06:13 UTC 🌍 Africa Africanews

Gabon in talks with Meta and TikTok over social media ban

Gabon is discussing a potential resolution with social media companies Meta and TikTok following a recent ban on social media platforms due to concerns over harmful content.

Gabon’s communication ministry announced that the government is in negotiations with Meta and TikTok to address the recent ban on social media platforms in the country. This ban was imposed after the media regulator cited concerns that various online content was inciting conflict and division among citizens. The deputy presidency spokeswoman, Jennyfer Melodie Sambat, emphasized that the companies had previously ignored multiple warnings about inappropriate content including defamation, violence, and pornography, leading to the government's drastic action.

In response to the ban, TikTok has reached out to the Gabonese media regulator, expressing its commitment to fostering a safe digital environment for users in Gabon. This indicates a willingness for social media platforms to collaborate with local authorities to better manage content and potentially lift the suspension. Despite the government's efforts to enforce the ban, reports have surfaced of a significant increase in VPN downloads, suggesting that many users are still finding ways to access social media platforms.

Critics of the social media ban have labeled it as

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