britone mwasaru

In our digital age, the right to access information is not just a convenience—it’s a pillar of democracy and socioeconomic development. Yet, this right is increasingly under attack through censorship and internet shutdowns. While digital platforms like WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, and Twitter have improved how we communicate, sharing information across the globe with minimal barriers, they also face significant threats. Censorship and internet shutdowns can limit our access, silencing voices and stifling free exchange.

Reflecting on the broadcast era, our media landscape was confined to a few television and radio channels, with content curated by a select group of media houses. In contrast, the internet promised openness; anyone could broadcast their thoughts to the world. However, this digital freedom comes with new gatekeepers—algorithms programmed by powerful tech companies that decide what we see and what remains hidden. This concentration of control makes it simpler than ever to surveil and manipulate information access.

To fight this, we need tools dedicated not to profit, but to the fundamental right of information access. These tools should empower us to share and receive information freely, without data harvesting, surveillance, or compliance with censorship demands. By using platforms that prioritize encrypted communication and privacy, we can protect our digital rights and maintain open channels of information, even in restrictive environments.

A striking instance of such censorship was recently observed in Kenya during the national examinations. The government blocked access to communication apps like Telegram to prevent exam fraud. Below is a screenshot from the OONI app, which tests for internet censorship. On November 20th, 2023, both Telegram and Signal were inaccessible, showing how digital access can be curtailed.

As we use digital tools, the role of secure, non-profit driven communication tools becomes increasingly vital. These platforms are our means to access information and a safeguard against censorship.

Examples of Privacy Tools:

• Tor Browser: This tool enables anonymous web browsing by routing internet traffic through multiple servers, masking users’ identities and location, crucial for circumventing censorship and surveillance.
• Snowflake: As a pluggable transport for Tor, Snowflake allows users in censored regions to access the internet by turning regular users’ connections into bridges. It’s particularly useful during internet shutdowns or heavy censorship periods.
• Signal Messaging App: Signal provides end-to-end encryption, ensuring that communications (texts, calls, and media) are secure from interception. This app is vital for maintaining private communication, especially in scenarios where surveillance and data interception are heightened.
• Orbot: VPN for smartphones

As users and advocates for digital rights, supporting and promoting the use of these tools is not just beneficial—it’s essential for the preservation of our digital freedoms.