RismadarVoice Reporters
September 16, 2026
Facebook and TikTok have been inaccessible in Equatorial Guinea for more than two weeks following restrictions on internet access in the Central African country.
An AFP journalist in the country reported on Wednesday that internet speeds had been restricted since September 2, while access to the two most popular social media platforms remained unavailable without the use of a virtual private network.
Other platforms operated by Meta, including WhatsApp and Instagram, were reportedly still accessible, although with limitations.
The restrictions came shortly after a video posted online by a young woman accusing Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang of corruption gained widespread attention.
The woman was subsequently arrested by authorities.
Nguema Obiang, popularly known as Teodorin, is the eldest son of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has governed Equatorial Guinea since 1979.
The vice president has attracted international attention over his lavish lifestyle, which he frequently showcases on social media.
He was convicted in France in 2021 in a case involving what prosecutors described as illicitly acquired wealth. His assets in the United Kingdom were also frozen following corruption-related investigations.
The Equatorial Guinean government had not publicly explained the restrictions on Facebook and TikTok as of Wednesday. The country’s information ministry did not immediately respond to questions from AFP.
Equatorial Guinea has long faced criticism over restrictions on civil liberties under President Obiang’s rule.
Neighbouring Gabon has also maintained restrictions on social media platforms since February. Authorities there said the measures were aimed at preventing the spread of content considered capable of undermining the stability of state institutions and national security.
