Due to excessive requests on the WHOIS web interface (https://www.afrinic.net/whois), the proper function of the service is severely impacted. We are exploring measures to restore the service to its normal operation.
In the meantime, we encourage the use of the WHOIS command line client. You can get the installation files at https://ftp.afrinic.net/db/.
Further WHOIS support material can be accessed here: https://afrinic.net/fr/support/whois/faq.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to resolve this issue.