The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) CEO Ezekiel Mutua has warned local content producers against posting inappropriate content online.
"We discussed the elements of a takedown. If there's a bad video posted, how long does it take to take it down? We need to be able to move swiftly. We're working with the DCI so that there are measures," said Mutua.
In an era where children are exposed to the internet from a very young age, there is a need to enact strict measures to protect their innocence and morality.
"How can we change the narrative from what you guys are showing where socialites define what our kids think is cool and is the way of life by parading their nudity, obscenity and adding vile language on TV and during the watershed period. Having our kids imitate that," he added.
This targets everyone across the board from those who post, influencers, and those who share.
The onset of Covid-19 fanned life to the internet in Kenya regulations put in place to curb its spread had many turning to the digital platforms to eke a living. This saw lots of artists and creatives come up with content that took the space and went viral. There was no limit to what was posted from songs, films, skits to challenges.
The education sector was not left behind with schools embracing zoom to keep teaching in a bid to clear the curriculum. Phones and Laptops became necessities if learning was going to be effective.
The oversaturation of the internet did not come without challenges as hackers took pleasure in interrupting the sessions with pornographic content.
In the constitution, Films and Stage Plays Act Cap 222, any person who is guilty of an offense under this Act shall be liable to a fine not exceeding one hundred thousand shillings or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years or to both such fine and imprisonment.
In addition, where the offense relates to the making of a film, order the confiscation and destruction of the film, and revoke the filming license. Further, where the offense relates to the exhibition, order the confiscation and destruction of the film, and in addition, or instead, revoke any certificate of approval, approval, or permission granted under this Act.
The Statute Law Bill 2020 seeks to amend the Films and Stage Plays Act Cap. 222 of the Laws of Kenya to make the Act compatible with the Constitution and to ensure that it tackles the progressing demands of the creative industry.
