- Internet Freedom Training for Women in Tanzania
Zaina Foundation organized a comprehensive internet shutdown training from April 4th to 5th, 2024 for 20 internet shutdown fellows, comprising 20 women. These women were selected from various regions of Tanzania and represented diverse professions associated with freedom of expression work, including women journalists from different media outlets and women working in human rights based civil society organisations. The training equipped the participants with essential tools and knowledge related to internet shutdowns and digital rights. Through a series of interactive sessions, workshops, and presentations, the fellows gained practical insights into internet shutdown scenarios, monitoring, documentation, reporting, and awareness-raising techniques. Moreover, they were introduced to the legal framework regulating freedom of speech in Tanzania, the Data Protection Act No. 11 of 2022 and the Electronic and Postal Communications (Online Content) Regulations 2020 enhancing their understanding of digital rights advocacy.
Following internet shutdown training, fellows initiated a social media advocacy campaign to promote internet freedom and highlight its importance as Tanzania gears up for its national elections. Since May 2024, they have used social media, blogs, and websites to share information and educate various groups, including girls, women, boys, men, human rights defenders, government officials, policymakers, and the general public, on internet shutdowns and digital rights. The campaign strategically uses hashtags like #DigitalRightstz, #Keepiton, and #BeOnline to enhance reach and engagement.
As of May 2024, the social media advocacy campaign has effectively raised public awareness about the dangers of internet shutdowns and the importance of maintaining internet freedom. It has achieved a widespread reach, engaging 44,045 people across X, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn platforms, showing active approval of our campaign. Additionally, 4,966 people have seen or been exposed to the campaign’s content. The campaign also reached 843 individuals through blogs and websites posts.
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