Sat Nov 16 04:15:16 UTC 2024: ## Mozambique’s Internet Shutdowns Cripple Businesses Amid Post-Election Protests

**Maputo, Mozambique – November 16, 2024** – Ongoing post-election protests in Mozambique are causing widespread economic hardship, exacerbated by repeated government-ordered internet shutdowns. These shutdowns, implemented since October 25th, are crippling small and medium-sized businesses, many operating in the informal sector, and impacting a wide range of professionals.

Following disputed election results that saw the Frelimo party claim a landslide victory despite a high abstention rate (over 56%), protests have erupted across the country. Clashes between protesters and police have resulted in at least 30 deaths, according to rights groups and hospitals. Independent candidate Venancio Mondlane, whose supporters heavily populate the protesters, alleges vote rigging and continues to call for demonstrations.

The internet shutdowns, which have included at least five mobile internet outages and several hours-long social media blackouts, are devastating for businesses reliant on digital connectivity. Uber driver Rofino Fiel reports weekly losses of 8,000 meticais ($126) due to the outages. Similarly, a real estate agent, Edson Chiado, and a financial trader (who chose to remain anonymous) report significant losses. Even tech startups, like Americo Marime’s network analysis company, are struggling to meet deadlines and retain clients. While some businesses attempt to use VPNs or limited free Wi-Fi, connectivity remains severely hampered.

The government, while not declaring a national emergency, defends the shutdowns as necessary to prevent the destruction of the country, a claim rejected by critics. The #KeepItOn coalition, a global network of human rights organizations, has condemned the shutdowns, urging the Mozambican authorities to cease this practice. Civil society groups and international observers have already raised concerns about the election’s lack of adherence to democratic standards. Activist Celio Lazaro even calls for mobile phone operators to be held criminally responsible for their role in limiting citizens’ rights.

The Confederation of Economic Associations of Mozambique acknowledges the negative impact on small businesses but says it is powerless to intervene. With Mondlane calling for further demonstrations, the economic consequences for Mozambique, where approximately 65% of the population lives in poverty, are expected to worsen. While the government and mobile operators claim the shutdowns are beyond their control, the ongoing disruptions highlight the profound economic and social costs of the political unrest.

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