Filmmakers, broadcasters and content distributors have been urged to regularise their licences as the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) moves to end its compliance grace period today, June 4.
In a public notice, the board warned that anyone operating without the required approvals risks being locked out of distribution, broadcasting and exhibition of their content.
KFCB said the deadline follows a three-month grace period that started in March, meant to allow filmmakers to comply with licensing requirements under the law.
The board told stakeholders that filmmakers need a filming license before they start any production in the country. Also, all movies, trailers, and promo materials have to be submitted for classification before they hit the public.
According to them, this procedure makes sure the content follows national standards, shows Kenya’s values, and shields audiences, especially kids and other vulnerable groups.
KFCB pointed out that some filmmakers haven’t benefited fully from their work since they couldn’t meet licensing and classification requirements. Missing those left a few out of film festivals and other chances to make money.
During the grace period, filmmakers could submit past work from as far back as 2018 that hadn’t been cleared yet, to get compliant.
Now, the board says that post deadline, no film can be publicly shown, broadcasted, or exhibited without the proper licenses and classification.
“We remain committed to delivering effective and efficient services to our stakeholders in accordance with the law and the Citizens Service Delivery Charter,” the board said in its notice.
KFCB has maintained that compliance is not only a legal requirement but also a key step for filmmakers looking to access the commercial side of the industry.
With the deadline now in effect, filmmakers who are yet to comply risk having their content pulled from public platforms or blocked from screening.
