Entertainment joints, especially those operating video games, have been put on notice by the Kenya Film and Classification Board (KFCB) amid school closures for the December holidays.
In a statement on Tuesday, October 21, KFCB warned video games operators and other content exhibitors against allowing children to play content unsuitable for their age.
The regulator noted that, due to the long break from October to January, children were more vulnerable to exposure to harmful media, particularly in unsupervised entertainment venues.
“The Board cautions video show operators, PlayStation centres, and other film exhibitors against admitting children into their premises to view or play content that is not suitable for minors,” read the statement.
The KFCB is empowered by the Films and Stage Plays Act, Cap 222 of the Laws of Kenya, which restricts exhibition films or games to the public without prior classification or approval.
Under the law, violators face fines of up to Ksh100,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
The Board called on parents to take a proactive role in monitoring the type of content their children were consuming across TV, online platforms and gaming sites.
Meanwhile, the KFCB revealed it was working to equip families with tools needed to safeguard children in a fast-paced digital environment.
Content creators have also been reminded to uphold their responsibility in ensuring all public available media content are age-appropriate and upheld national values.
For entertainment businesses, KFCB warned that children should only be allowed access to games and content classified as "General Exhibition (GE) or content specifically approved for their age group.
If a video gaming hub is found exposing minors to inappropriate content, the KFCB can revoke its license and initiate legal proceedings against the proprietor.
Similarly, a formal demand letter can be issued to a rogue operator, requiring them to remove all inappropriate content from their platforms and cease illegal operations.
Non-compliance within a specified period can lead to further legal action.
