Communications Authority Orders Telcos To Block Telegram In Kenya

The Communications Authority has written to Network providers to temporarily suspend Telegram across Kenya.

This decision comes in response to alarming reports of the messaging platform being misused for criminal activities, particularly those compromising the ongoing Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams.

Authorities have raised concerns that Telegram has become a hotbed for illicit activities, including the sharing of exam questions and answers, posing a serious threat to the credibility of the national examination process.

In light of these risks, various government agencies have reached out to the communications authority, urging immediate action to contain the situation.

The authority expressed disappointment over the platform’s lack of cooperation despite multiple requests to remove offending channels and forums, citing breaches of local laws and the principles of data protection and privacy.

The communication directive mandates all Mobile Network Operators—including Safaricom, Airtel, and Jamii Telecom—to suspend access to Telegram specifically during critical examination hours.

This suspension will take effect from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and will remain in place until November 22, 2024.

However, social media managers have been left scratching their heads as to how they will manage their businesses on the popular app.

Many went to social media to express their frustrations, urging the government not to resort to blanket condemnation as it affects flow of information and advertisement revenue.