Telegram Restricted in Kenya to Combat KCSE Exam Cheating: Suspension Schedule.
In the past week, Telegram users in Kenya have reported a significant drop in the app’s response rate.
Whether in accessing chats, loading images, or joining groups, numerous users have struggled with the platform.
The cause behind this limited functionality has now been revealed to be a temporary restriction imposed within the country.
Exam-Related Restrictions on Telegram
The Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams began on Monday, November 4, prompting a series of restrictions on social media usage.
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Telegram has been a particular target, with various aspects of its functionality curtailed by Kenyan authorities to prevent exam-related misconduct.
Reasons for Restriction:
- Cheating Prevention: The restrictions were aimed at halting examination malpractice, a concern raised by several governmental agencies.
- Criminal Activity Control: Authorities reported that certain channels on Telegram were suspected of assisting in exam cheating, prompting an official suspension.
According to Netlocks, an internet observatory, data confirmed the restriction of Telegram across multiple service providers in Kenya. Users noted frequent “Connecting” errors, especially when using the desktop version of Telegram.
Communications Authority of Kenya’s Directive
A letter shared online from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) validated these suspensions, citing collaboration with mobile network providers.
The CAK confirmed that the restriction order was to be enforced during examination hours to curb the risk of cheating.
Suspension Schedule:
- From 7:00 am to 10:00 am each morning.
- From 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm each afternoon.
- The restrictions are set to remain until November 22, 2024.
In the directive, CAK emphasized that Telegram had been particularly flagged by government agencies, noting that mobile network operators were instructed to use all available mechanisms to limit Telegram’s operations.
Telegram’s Controversial Reputation
In 2024, Telegram ranked as the fifth most downloaded social media app in Kenya, following WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.
Despite its popularity, the app has garnered a controversial reputation, with governments around the world viewing it as a platform that could potentially facilitate the spread of misinformation, extremism, and illegal activities.
Recently, the arrest of Telegram co-founder and CEO Pavel Durov near Paris, under allegations related to the app’s activities, has added to the app’s contentious status.
In particular, European countries such as Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, Germany, Norway, and Spain have implemented restrictions or outright bans on Telegram.
Results of the Restriction
The move appears to have had a notable impact, as cheating cases involving mobile phones during exams have dropped significantly in 2024.
ALSO READ: PS Kipsang’ Announces Drastic Drop in KCSE Exam Malpractice Cases for 2024
Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang reported that only 11 instances of attempted phone use were recorded nationwide, marking one of the lowest numbers of cheating cases in recent years.
The PS, who monitored exams in Kiambu County, acknowledged that the restrictions may have contributed to this reduction, helping to ensure exam integrity.
Telegram Restricted in Kenya to Combat KCSE Exam Cheating: Suspension Schedule.
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