Regulation, Vital, Enabler to Creativity, Says KFCB at ‘Let’s Talk Film Law’ Forum

The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has termed the regulation of audiovisual content as a vital enabler of a structured, ethical, and sustainable creative economy, underscoring its role in safeguarding consumers, enhancing content standards, and strengthening industry growth, rather than limiting creativity.

Speaking during a panel discussion themed “Let’s Talk Film Law” held on June 12, 2026, at the Unseen Cinemas in Nairobi, KFCB Senior Legal Officer, Ms. Eunice Mwanza said the mandate of the KFCB to regulate the creation, distribution, possession, broadcasting, and exhibition of audiovisual content is not meant to stifle creativity but rather create a facilitative environment that supports the monetization of creative works.

“Regulation of audiovisual content is essential for fostering a structured, ethical, and sustainable creative ecosystem, as well as for protecting consumers, particularly children and vulnerable groups, from exposure to inappropriate and potentially harmful content,” she stated.

While highlighting the facilitative role of KFCB in spurring the sector growth, Ms. Mwanza indicated that KFCB is implementing targeted interventions and initiatives aimed at strengthening regulatory compliance, enhancing industry awareness, safeguarding consumers, and supporting the growth and sustainability of the sector. 

“These include but are not limited to the automation of filming licenses, issuance of gratis filming licenses to students undertaking film studies for academic projects, provision of the Nairobi Film Centre (NFC) at affordable rates for creative events, redefinition of the role of film agents, and the rollout of a self-classification model for broadcasters and other industry players, among other initiatives,” she observed.

Organized by the Students in Film Association (SIFA), the interactive forum brought together aspiring filmmakers to deepen their understanding of the laws, regulations, and professional standards governing film production, distribution, and exhibition in Kenya. The discussions also covered content standards, copyright, intellectual property rights, the media code of conduct, film marketing, and emerging opportunities within the creative sector.

KFCB is a State regulatory agency mandated under the Films and Stage Plays Act, Cap. 222, to regulate audiovisual content in Kenya, ensuring alignment with Kenya’s moral values and national aspirations, while protecting vulnerable audiences from exposure to inappropriate content.