Tanzania introduces $930 fee for bloggers, surveillance cameras in internet cafes - CNN
▻https://www.cnn.com/2018/04/12/africa/tanzania-blogging-internet-freedoms-africa/index.html
As part of sweeping new internet regulations, the Tanzanian government has introduced a $930 fee for those wanting to have an online blog, giving the authorities unprecedented control over the internet.
The government now requires all bloggers to pay the annual fee and register before they begin publishing material.
The state-run Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) said in a statement bloggers and content providers have until May 5 to complete the application process.
It’s not just bloggers affected by the provisions, but online radio stations, online streaming platforms, online forums, social media users and internet cafes.
Bloggers are asked to provide a lengthy list of details, including share capital, tax certificates, estimated investments and other information to secure accreditation.
The legislation, officially known as the Electronic and Postal Communications (Online Content) Regulations 2018, also sets out a series of prohibited content, including “content that causes annoyance... or leads to public disorder.”
Additionally, internet cafes are required to install surveillance cameras.
Breaking these stipulations permits the regulatory authorities to revoke licenses.
Local newspapers have reported that the government has introduced the regulations to curb “moral decadence.”
