Gabon says access to social media restored after eight-month ban

Gabon has lifted the social media ban introduced on 17 February, the High Communication Authority announced in a televised statement on Saturday. The regulator had justified the suspension by saying online content was fuelling conflict and deepening divisions, but the move drew widespread criticism. Many users relied on VPNs to reach platforms that are popular with young people for business and leisure. The ban came as President Brice Oligui Nguema faced social unrest and strikes by teachers and civil servants over pay and working conditions.