President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has instructed the government to strengthen oversight of social media to prevent misuse and protect public order. The directive was issued during the 80th ordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers on Friday, February 27, in Kinshasa.
The president tasked the Minister of State for Justice and Keeper of the Seals and the Minister of Digital Economy to propose and implement measures in consultation with relevant services. These measures aim to promote responsible, ethical, and rational use of social media, potentially including “proportionate restrictive measures compliant with the law, while respecting fundamental freedoms,” according to Minister of Digital Economy Augustin Kibassa Maliba.
The directive comes amid rapid growth in internet and social media adoption. DataReportal data show that internet users in the DRC rose from 21.14 million in 2021 to 34.7 million in early 2026, a 64.1% increase. Social media users grew from 4 million to 10.4 million over the same period.
Authorities highlighted that social media, while beneficial, have increasingly become platforms for misinformation, public disorder, hate speech, opinion manipulation, and incitement to division, undermining national cohesion and stability. Persistent security challenges in several provinces have amplified concerns, as these issues are widely discussed online.
The government emphasized promoting and enforcing the Digital Code, which regulates the use of digital platforms and provides mechanisms to prevent, regulate, and punish online abuses. Public awareness campaigns will be coordinated by the Minister of Communication and Media, targeting both citizens and magistrates to ensure consistent enforcement.
Education will also play a key role, with the Ministries of National Education and Higher Education gradually integrating modules on responsible digital use into school curricula and youth training programs, including issues related to social media and artificial intelligence.
The ministers responsible must submit bi-weekly reports detailing actions taken, results achieved, and challenges faced. However, authorities have not yet disclosed the precise measures for implementation.
