Kenyan YouTubers are up in arms following new directives from the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) requiring them to obtain licenses, have their content approved before uploading and other regulations.
The notices have elicited reactions among big content creators, including Mammito, Abel Mutua, Mulamwah, Jacky Vike, lifestyle influencer Natalie Tewa, Blessed Njugush, and YY Comedian who got served by the board.
These creators took to their social media platforms to express their frustration and disappointment with the board.
Jacky Vike vented her frustration on social media noting that the board is onto them now that the industry is keen on creating jobs and gained international recognition.
“Yani the Moment there have been Increased Positive Content Creation, Job Creation and International Recognition, KFCB mnafufuka. The fact that you have not even considered a sit down with Content Creators, you’ve just gone straight to Red taping us, it says so much about your intentions. Oh Alafu @kfcbkenya ni Awinja Nyamwalo, Awilo sijui ni gani but since I got it on my Email here we are… Kumbe Kukasirika inaeza toa Kizungu noma hivi,” Jacky stated.
Mammito, a standup comedian and actress who shares her skits on YouTube shared her disappointment calling out KFCB for not supporting and encouraging content creators.
“Instead of making it better for us and encouraging that we create more content about our people and culture..Wameamua kutumaliza… And please am Njoki not Njeri.”
, “Afasali mutunyonge baas,” Mulamwah stated
“They now want to assasinate Online…😂😂What’s their contribution to the online creators though😂…saa hii before uploading lazima uwatumie waaprove ata kama ni Podcast ya 4hours😂😂😂,” YY Comedian highlighted the absurdity of the new regulations.
“@kfcbkenya mnajua nacheka nini? Hii ni maajabu,” Abel Mutua remarked.
KFCB to content creators
In letters addressed to these top creators in the industry dated May 22, 2024, KFCB emphasized the legal requirements under the Films and Stage Plays Act, Cap 222.
KFCB said that according to Section 15 of the Act, KFCB is mandated to regulate the creation, broadcasting, possession, distribution, and exhibition of film and broadcast content in Kenya.
“We refer to the above matter and write to you as follows: 1. THAT our attention has been drawn to your YouTube channels where you have continuously uploaded audio-visual content for purposes of exhibiting and distributing it to the public, without acquiring the requisite filming licences from Kenya Film Classification Board,” the letter reads in parts.
Adding;
“That Section 15 of the Films and Stage Plays Act, Cap 222 mandates the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) to regulate the creation, broadcasting, possession, distribution and exhibition of film and broadcast content in the country.”
Additionally, Section 4 of the Act requires all filmmakers producing films within Kenya for public exhibition or sale, both locally and internationally, to obtain a filming license.
Section 12 further mandates that all classes of film being distributed, exhibited, or broadcasted within Kenya must be examined by KFCB, and a certificate of approval issued.
“That further, Section 4 of the Act requires all filmmakers producing film within Kenya for public exhibition or sale, locally or internationally, to obtain a filming licence. Additionally, Section 12 requires that all classes of film being distributed, exhibited or broadcasted within Kenya must be examined by KFCB and a certificate of approval issued,” KFCB stated.
“That consequently, we demand that you strictly comply with the requirements of the Films and Stage Plays Act by obtaining filming licences for your films, and submit them for examination and classification before the same is exhibited and distributed to the public through your YouTube channel,” the board added.
The content creators have been given a 14-day ultimatum to comply with these regulations.
“Take Notice That Unless You Comply With The Above In The Next Fourteen (14) Days, We Shall Institute Legal Proceedings In Accordance With The Provisions Of The Films And Stage Plays Act And Other Relevant Laws, Without Further Reference To You And At Your Own Risks As To Costs And Other Attendant Consequences Thereto,” the board warned.
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