Filed under: Around the Web
From Black Web 2.0: Last week a series of deadly riots and protests broke out in the African country of Mozambique after a text message went viral. The message, although cryptic was telling.
"Mozambican, prepare yourself to enjoy the great day of the strike. Let's protest the increase in energy, water, mini-bus taxi and bread prices. Send to other Mozambicans."
The message traveled across the region via cell phone and what followed was a three-day physical manifestation of a rarely heard populace.
The inflammatory message was sent in response to rising food costs in an already financially taxed nation. A 22 percent price hike levied on bread in addition to the increases on gas, electricity, and water resulted in a three-day protest in the capitol city of Maputo leaving approximately 13 people dead and 400 people wounded. The number of arrests has risen to 286. As the government works to restore order, a discussion has begun on the power of technology can afford to even the most marginalized populations.
See What Happened After the Initial Protest @ Black Web 2.0