Filmmakers in Kenya Given 90 Days to Get Licenses and Age Classification

The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has issued a 90-day grace period for filmmakers, distributors, broadcasters, and exhibitors to comply with licensing rules or face action.

In a notice on Wednesday, March 4, the KFCB board asked the filmmakers to comply with the classification requirements under the Films and Stage Plays Act, warning that non-compliant films will face a ban after June 4, 2026.

KFCB confirmed that any film not duly licensed and classified for age appropriateness by the end of the grace period will be prohibited from distribution, broadcast, or public exhibition.

“The Board wishes to remind all filmmakers that Section 4 of the Act requires every filmmaker to obtain a filming licence from the Board prior to undertaking any filming activities within the Republic of Kenya,” the notice stated.

Further, it stated that sections 13 and 14 of the Act require that all films and related promotional materials, including posters and trailers, be submitted to the Board for examination and classification before they are distributed, broadcast, or exhibited to the public.

KFCB Issues 90-Day Grace Period for Compliance

The Board raised concern that a significant number of filmmakers were unable to commercially exploit their productions or showcase them at film festivals due to non-compliance with filming, distribution, and exhibition requirements under the Films and Stage Plays Act.

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“The Board has noted with concern that a significant number of filmmakers have been unable to commercially exploit their work or showcase it in film festivals,” it stated.

According to the regulator, failure to obtain the necessary licences and approvals has limited content creators’ ability to lawfully distribute their work and generate income from their productions.

In response, the board introduced a three-month grace period running from March 4 to June 4, 2026.

“To facilitate compliance, the Board hereby grants a 3-month grace period from 4th March to 4th June 2026 for submission,” KFCB stated.

During this period, filmmakers who have not complied with statutory requirements will be allowed to submit their films and related materials for examination and classification.

The Board encouraged filmmakers to take advantage of the window to secure the requisite licences and approvals.

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Compliance will allow creators to lawfully distribute, exhibit, and monetise their content in accordance with the law.

Unlicensed Films to Be Barred After June 4

Violations of these provisions will be addressed in accordance with the Films and Stage Plays Act.

The board confirmed its commitment to providing effective and efficient services to stakeholders while ensuring compliance with the law and its Citizens’ Service Delivery Charter.

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