Government workers in Tanzania have been banned from using social media and chat apps during work hours.

Transport and communication ministry officials have been warned that “gossiping” on social media will lead to dismissal.

It is not clear how the ban will be enforced amidst increasing social media popularity.

The minister told the BBC that social media use was interfering with Tanzania’s development.

Makame Mbarawa addressed his department saying this practice was affecting productivity and believed his ministry should set a positive example to the wider civil service.

Cheap phone data bundles are enabling wider use of platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter in Tanzania.