After lifting the internet access block today, access to social media sites and apps remained blocked. Zimbabweans have reported that they are still unable to access Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter. Addtionally YouTube and other yet to be identified services have been added to the list.
They are however so far able to access the rest of the internet.
A message sent out by Econet Wireless, the largest mobile internet provider in the country this evening says:
Dear valued customer , Please be advised that the internet is back online under a directive that Facebook ,YouTube , Whats App ,Twitter will remain closed until further notice. Any inconvenience is sincerely regretted
Yesterday, On 15 January 2019, the government first blocked access to Facebook and WhatsApp early in the morning, then later extended the block to the rest of the internet, plunging the country into a connectivity blackout. The blackout was ended at about 5PM today, 16 January 2019.
The events followed violent protest that occurred on 14 January, a day a sta away called for by the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions started. 5 people reportedly died and several other injured, some from gunshot wounds.
Freedom of speach so unblock social media.