Unlicensed films face ban after June 4, KFCB warns

The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has given filmmakers, distributors, exhibitors, and broadcasters a three-month window to submit films that have not complied with licensing and classification rules.

Any unclassified works risk a ban if not licensed by June 4, 2026.

In a statement shared on social media, the board noted that many filmmakers have been unable to commercially exploit their work or participate in film festivals due to non-compliance, losing potential income.

“The Board has noted with concern that a significant number of filmmakers have been unable to commercially exploit their work or showcase them in film festivals due to non-compliance with filming, distribution, and exhibition requirements under the Act, thus denying themselves the opportunity to earn income from their films,” the notice read in part.

Section 4 of the Act requires every filmmaker to obtain a filming licence before undertaking any filming in Kenya. Sections 13 and 14 require all films and related promotional materials, including posters and trailers, to be submitted to the Board for examination and classification before public distribution, broadcasting, or exhibition.

To facilitate compliance, KFCB has granted a three-month grace period from March 4 to June 4, 2026, for submission of works produced from 2018 to date that may not meet statutory requirements. The Board urged filmmakers to use this window to obtain necessary approvals and legally distribute and monetise their productions.

“Upon the lapse of this notice, any film that will not have been duly licensed and classified for age appropriateness shall not be distributed, broadcast, or exhibited to the public. Contravention of the same shall be dealt with in accordance with the law,” KFCB added

KFCB, a State Corporation, regulates the creation, broadcasting, possession, distribution, and exhibition of film and audiovisual content in Kenya.

Its mandate is to ensure content aligns with Kenyan culture and national values, and to protect consumers, especially children and vulnerable groups, from inappropriate material.