Sudan, a country already embroiled in a 10-month civil war, has been hit by a widespread internet blackout, leaving its citizens disconnected from vital communication networks. Many have attributed the blackout to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group that has been fighting the army in Sudan. However, the RSF has denied any responsibility for the disruption.
NetBlocks, an organization dedicated to monitoring internet freedom, reported a “new collapse of internet connectivity” in Sudan. The blackout has raised concerns about the ability of Sudanese citizens to access important information, connect with loved ones, and seek help during times of crisis. It also highlights the complex dynamics between different armed groups in the country and their control over communication infrastructure.
The blackout is not limited to Sudan alone. A Sudanese hacktivist group targeted Uganda for welcoming the RSF leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, resulting in a disruption to the internet services of two major providers, Uganda Telecom and MTN. While some have reported difficulties accessing the internet in Uganda, others have not noticed any problems. This raises questions about the extent of the cyber-attacks and their impact on neighboring countries.
The exact cause of the blackout in Sudan is still unclear. State-aligned media have blamed the RSF, while an RSF official accused the army of issuing direct orders to sever communication in certain regions controlled by the paramilitary group. One of Sudan’s major mobile operators, Zain, has been largely offline, according to NetBlocks. Zain released a statement on Facebook, explaining that the outage was due to circumstances beyond their control and the difficult conditions they are operating under.
The internet blackout in Sudan carries significant implications, particularly in the context of an ongoing civil war. It further exacerbates the hardships faced by the Sudanese people, many of whom have already been displaced or are in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. The United Nations has appealed for $4.1 billion to address the urgent needs of those affected by the conflict, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Without reliable internet connectivity, the ability to communicate, gather information, and access essential services becomes severely limited. This hampers efforts to coordinate relief efforts, report human rights abuses, and seek assistance from international organizations. The blackout also has economic implications, as businesses struggle to operate and individuals face difficulties accessing online banking and financial services.
Furthermore, the blackout raises concerns about the control of information and the suppression of dissenting voices. In an increasingly digital world, internet access is a vital tool for individuals to express themselves, share their experiences, and hold those in power accountable. By cutting off access to the internet, authorities can control the flow of information and suppress any opposition or criticism.
The international community must prioritize the restoration of internet connectivity in Sudan and support efforts to address the humanitarian crisis. It is crucial to ensure that those affected by the civil war have access to the communication tools they need to stay connected, seek help, and make their voices heard. The blackout serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by conflict-ridden countries and the importance of safeguarding internet freedom in such situations.
As the situation in Sudan unfolds, it is important for governments, international organizations, and civil society to work together to find a resolution to the civil war and address the urgent needs of the Sudanese people. This includes efforts to restore internet connectivity, provide humanitarian aid, and promote peacebuilding initiatives. The international community must not overlook the plight of Sudan and should mobilize resources to support the country during this critical time.
