On the morning of 11 June 2019, internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported a total internet shutdown across Ethiopia following the blocking of messaging applications Telegram and WhatsApp by Ethio Telecom the previous day. Interpreted as a measure to prevent cheating in nationwide exams, the disruption angered business owners and incurred an estimated $17m loss to Ethiopia's GDP. Connectivity returned briefly on two occasions during four consecutive days of national blackouts that were followed by further regional disruptions. WhatsApp was unblocked on the 17th although internet access was only fully restored on the 18th and Telegram remained blocked without explanation.
