Since 2019, COMPSUDEV has been the primary partner of the Open Observatory of Network Interference (OONI) in Cameroon, conducting systematic measurements to document internet censorship and network interference. Our research has revealed alarming patterns of digital repression that have profound implications for human rights, freedom of expression, and sustainable development in Cameroon.
Executive Summary
Through continuous network measurements and analysis, we have documented:
- Two major internet shutdowns lasting over 180 days combined
- Systematic blocking of independent news media and social media platforms
- Network throttling affecting specific services and communication tools
- Targeting of digital rights organizations and civil society activists
- Surveillance infrastructure monitoring online activities
Historical Context: Internet Shutdowns in Cameroon
Cameroon has experienced two major internet shutdowns since 2016, each lasting several months and affecting millions of people. These shutdowns were not technical failures or accidents—they were deliberate policy decisions by telecommunications authorities.
First Shutdown (January - April 2017)
The first internet shutdown lasted 93 consecutive days, beginning in January 2017. This shutdown coincided with political tensions in the Anglophone regions of Cameroon and affected the entire social media ecosystem. During this period:
- Facebook, WhatsApp, and other messaging platforms were completely inaccessible
- Online news services and social media platforms ceased operation
- People could not access information about ongoing events
- Businesses dependent on online commerce suffered significant losses
- Students could not access online educational resources
Second Shutdown (October 2017 - March 2018)
Following the first shutdown, a second internet shutdown occurred from October 2017 to March 2018, lasting approximately 5 months. This extended period of digital isolation created severe economic, social, and health consequences:
- Internet access was restricted in the Anglophone regions of North West and South West
- Hospitals and health centers could not access telemedicine services or digital health records
- Small businesses and traders lost critical communication channels
- Students' education was disrupted with no access to online learning resources
- Families were separated and unable to communicate
Website Blocking and Content Filtering
Beyond complete shutdowns, Cameroon also practices selective blocking of specific websites and services. Our OONI measurements have documented systematic blocking of:
Independent News and Media Outlets
Several independent news websites are blocked or throttled, particularly those covering sensitive political topics or human rights violations. This prevents citizens from accessing independent sources of information and understanding different perspectives on current events.
Social Media and Communication Platforms
Popular social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and messaging applications have been blocked during periods of political tension. These platforms are critical for:
- Civic engagement and political discourse
- Business communication and commerce
- Social connection and family communication
- Emergency communication during crises
VPN and Proxy Services
Services that allow users to bypass censorship, including VPNs and proxy servers, are frequently blocked. This prevents people from circumventing government censorship and accessing blocked content.
Network Throttling: The Hidden Form of Censorship
Beyond complete blocking, network throttling—deliberately slowing down internet speeds—is used as a more subtle form of censorship. This technique:
- Makes specific platforms unusable by degrading performance
- Is harder to detect than outright blocking
- Discourages people from accessing certain services
- Affects all users, not just activists
Impact on Digital Rights Defenders and Civil Society
The most vulnerable to internet censorship are digital rights defenders, journalists, and civil society activists who rely on internet connectivity for their work. Our research has documented:
Surveillance and Monitoring
Civil society organizations and individual activists report increased surveillance of their online activities. During periods of political tension, social media accounts of activists are monitored, and online communications are tracked. This creates a chilling effect where people self-censor, afraid of government retaliation.
Targeting and Intimidation
Individuals and organizations critical of government policies report harassment, intimidation, and even arrest related to their online activities. This includes:
- Police questioning about social media posts
- Threats and harassment from government supporters
- Arbitrary arrests related to online activities
- Social media account closures and data deletion
Economic Impact of Internet Censorship
Internet shutdowns and censorship have significant economic consequences for Cameroon:
- Business Loss: Small businesses and traders lose revenue when they cannot communicate with customers or access online services
- Job Creation: The digital economy cannot develop when internet access is restricted
- Foreign Investment: Companies are hesitant to invest in countries with unreliable internet connectivity
- Financial Services: Mobile banking and digital payment systems are disrupted
- Healthcare: Telemedicine and digital health services are unavailable
During the 2017-2018 shutdowns, Cameroon's economy lost an estimated $100 million USD in potential revenue and productive economic activity.
Methodology and Findings
COMPSUDEV's research methodology is rigorous and transparent. We use OONI Probe, a free software tool that measures internet censorship and network interference. Our measurements include:
- Website Accessibility Tests: Testing whether popular websites are accessible
- Messaging App Tests: Checking availability of WhatsApp, Telegram, and similar services
- DNS Filtering Tests: Identifying DNS-based blocking
- HTTP Blocking Tests: Detecting blocking at the application layer
Our findings are published in the OONI database and are accessible to researchers, policymakers, and journalists worldwide. We have contributed valuable data to the global understanding of internet censorship and its impacts.
Implications for Development and Human Rights
Internet censorship directly undermines Cameroon's sustainable development goals. The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize the importance of internet access for:
- SDG 4 (Quality Education): Online learning and access to educational resources
- SDG 5 (Gender Equality): Women's economic empowerment through digital platforms
- SDG 8 (Economic Growth): Digital entrepreneurship and business development
- SDG 16 (Peace and Justice): Transparency and freedom of expression
Recommendations
Based on our research findings, COMPSUDEV recommends:
- Legal Reforms: Enact laws protecting internet freedom and prohibiting arbitrary shutdowns
- Transparency: Government should publish clear rules about when internet access can be restricted
- Due Process: Internet restrictions should follow legal procedures and be subject to judicial review
- Infrastructure Investment: Invest in multiple internet routes to prevent single points of failure
- Civil Society Engagement: Involve civil society in policy discussions about internet governance
Looking Forward
COMPSUDEV remains committed to documenting internet censorship and advocating for digital rights in Cameroon. Our research will continue to provide evidence-based information to support policy change and protect fundamental freedoms. The internet should be a tool for human development, not control.