Region: Zambia

Access Now and the #KeepItOn coalition  — a global network of over 370 organizations from 106 countries working to end internet shutdowns, through an open letter, are urging Zambian authorities to ensure unfettered access to the internet throughout the upcoming election. 

We, the undersigned organizations and members of the #KeepItOn coalition — a global network of over 370 organizations from 106 countries working to end internet shutdowns —  appeal to you, President Hakainde Hichilema, to ensure that people in Zambia have unfettered access to the internet, digital platforms, and all other communication channels throughout the upcoming elections on August 13, 2026. 

Last year, 12 countries cut internet access at least 19 times in Africa. Read “The return of digital authoritarianism: internet shutdowns in 2021”

We share five stories to show how the shutdown in Zambia affected people’s lives, as well as ways you can join the fight against internet shutdowns around the world.

In 2021, at least a dozen countries with a history of internet shutdowns are headed to the polls for important elections, and people fighting for their democracies need the world’s solidarity and support.

In spite of the #KeepItOn coalition’s call for open and accessible internet, authorities in Zambia blocked access to social media platforms throughout the nation’s August 12 election, including WhatsApp and Facebook.

In 2021, at least a dozen countries with a history of internet shutdowns are headed to the polls for important elections, and people fighting for their democracies need the world’s solidarity and support.