KFCB Gives Final Warning Ahead of June 4 Content Compliance Deadline

The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has issued a final reminder to filmmakers, distributors, broadcasters, and exhibitors to take advantage of the remaining days of its compliance grace period before it expires on June 4, 2026.

The board is encouraging industry players to regularize their films and audiovisual content to ensure they comply with the law and remain eligible for distribution, broadcasting, exhibition, and monetization opportunities.

In a public notice, KFCB emphasized that compliance is not only a legal requirement but also a key step towards unlocking commercial opportunities in the film industry.

“Take advantage of this final opportunity to regularize your work, stay compliant, and position yourself for growth in the film industry. Act now! Do not lock yourself out of monetization opportunities.”

Why Compliance Matters

KFCB is the state corporation mandated to regulate the creation, broadcasting, possession, distribution, and exhibition of film and audiovisual content in Kenya.

According to the board, the regulations help ensure content aligns with Kenya’s culture and national values while protecting audiences, especially children and vulnerable groups, from inappropriate content.

The Films and Stage Plays Act requires every filmmaker to obtain a filming licence from the board before undertaking filming activities in Kenya.

The law also requires all films and related promotional materials, including trailers and posters, to be submitted to KFCB for examination and classification before they are distributed, broadcast, or exhibited to the public.

Also Read: KFCB Launches Media Awareness Campaign as Crackdown on Illegal Sites Continues

KFCB Grace Period Comes to an End

KFCB had granted a three-month grace period running from March 4 to June 4, 2026, to allow filmmakers to submit films produced between 2018 and 2026 that may not have complied with statutory requirements.

The board said the grace period was intended to help filmmakers obtain the necessary approvals and legally distribute and monetize their productions.

It also noted that many filmmakers have previously missed out on commercial opportunities and film festival participation because they had not met licensing, distribution, and exhibition requirements.

Also Read: Meet Henry Wooster, the Diplomat Tapped to Replace Meg Whitman as US Ambassador to Kenya

Consequences for Non-Compliant Films

KFCB warned that once the grace period expires, any film that has not been properly licensed and classified for age appropriateness will not be allowed to be distributed, broadcast, or exhibited to the public.

The board further stated that any violation of the law after the deadline will be dealt with in accordance with the relevant legal provisions.

“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.”

Call to Industry Stakeholders

With only two days remaining before the deadline, KFCB is urging filmmakers, distributors, broadcasters and exhibitors to act quickly and complete the compliance process.

KFCB stated its commitment to providing effective and efficient services to stakeholders in line with its legal mandate and Citizens’ Service Delivery Charter.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

KFCB Issues notice to all Filmmakers. PHOTO/KFCB