Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has issued demands to Christopher Musioma alias Embarambamba for non-compliance with the Films and Stage Play Act Cap 222 of the Laws of Kenya.
This directive comes after Monday, 4th March 2024, the management of KFCB convened a meeting with Embarambamba, at their Uchumi House offices in Nairobi.
During the meeting, Embarambamba found himself hard-pressed to explain why he had blatantly contravened Sections 4 (Part II) and 12 of Cap 222.
These sections govern the creation, broadcasting, possession, distribution, and exhibition of audio-visual content in Kenya.
The statement highlighted several areas of non-compliance, specifically addressing the use of vulgarity, nudity, indecency, and what it described as “violent dancing styles” in his music videos, including the controversial track ‘Niko Uchi’ among others.
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Three Demands Issued to Embarambamba
Following the meeting, the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) issued a series of directives to Christopher Musioma including.
1. Deletion of Offensive Content: Embarambamba was instructed to promptly remove all offensive or indecent content, including music videos, from his YouTube channel and other social media platforms within the next two days.
Failure to comply may result in further legal action under Cap 222.
2. Submission for Examination: The artist must submit all of his content, especially music videos, to the KFCB for examination and classification to determine their appropriateness for different age groups.
3. Acquisition of Filming License: Embarambamba must obtain a filming license from the KFCB before undertaking any new productions.
Additionally, he must submit these new productions for classification before public exhibition.
Despite the stringent directives, Embarambamba expressed remorse for the indecent content and has agreed to adhere to the demands and advisory issued by the Board in the demand letter.
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Govt Taking Action on the Gospel Artist
On February 28th, 2024, KFCB announced that it had taken note of Embarambamba’s songs, including his latest track titled ‘Niko Uchi’, which it found to contain some unpalatable words.
“The unpalatable songs, which also contravene Films and Stage Plays Act Cap 222 of the Laws of Kenya are circulating on social media and other media platforms, eliciting sharp reactions and outcry from the public,” the statement read in part.
“It has further been noted that some of the artist’s dancing styles are violent and others present imitable behaviors, which if copied by children/minors, can be dangerous and disastrous.”
The Kenya Film Classification Board reiterated its role as the government agency responsible for regulating film and broadcast content within the country.
They emphasized the importance of content creators producing material that aligns with Kenya’s cultural values and national aspirations, while ensuring that children are shielded from inappropriate content.
