Recent remarks attributed to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu have reignited debate across East Africa over Uganda’s decision to shut down the internet during sensitive political moments.
Her message is clear and pointed blaming the internet for social or economic problems particularly youth laziness is misguided.
The internet she argues has not made young people idle rather it has opened doors to innovation, learning and employment that were previously inaccessible.
Across Africa millions of young people rely on the internet for education, entrepreneurship and civic engagement.
From online learning platforms and remote work opportunities to digital businesses and creative industries the internet has become a vital tool for productivity.
Cutting off access does not inspire discipline or hard work instead it disrupts livelihoods, silences voices and slows economic growth.
President Suluhu’s comments challenge leaders to confront deeper structural issues rather than resort to blanket restrictions.
Youth unemployment, limited access to capital and inadequate education systems cannot be solved by switching off connectivity.
On the contrary digital access can help address these challenges by equipping young people with skills, networks and global exposure.
Internet shutdowns also carry significant economic costs.
Businesses lose revenue, investors lose confidence and governments send a signal that digital freedoms are fragile.
In a world increasingly driven by technology such actions risk isolating countries from regional and global progress.
The call to wake up and work should be understood not as a dismissal of young people, but as a call to leadership.
Governments must create environments where productivity thrives through stable policies, digital inclusion and opportunities for innovation.
The internet should be seen as an ally in development, not an enemy.
Ultimately sustainable progress will not come from silencing technology but from empowering citizens to use it responsibly and productively
By Newshub