The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has called on local creatives and other stakeholders to submit their input for the proposed self-regulatory framework for the film industry, as it seeks to spur the continued growth of the local creative economy.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi, KFCB Acting CEO Christopher Wambua said the stakeholders have until September 13 to give their feedback on the regulations and play their role in creating a facilitative regulatory environment for the creative sector.
In March, the Board issued a new content rating guideline, which it says is aimed at facilitating an enabling regulatory environment for creators, broadcasters, and creatives.
The guidelines seek to involve broadcasters and online streaming services in the examination and rating of audiovisual content meant to be broadcast, distributed, and exhibited on the platforms.
Under the proposed framework, broadcasters will examine and rate 70 percent of the content they air on the platforms.
Currently, KFCB is required to examine and classify 100 percent of all audiovisual content meant for consumption in Kenya.
The regulations seek to relieve the Board which after the country switched from analog to digital broadcasting transmission, has had to find new ways to cope with increasing content from various broadcasting platforms.
Wambua noted that to usher in new talent, the Board is in plans to train young female creatives in digital content creation to enhance their livelihoods and spur the growth of the local creative industry.
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) country profile estimates that Kenya’s creative economy exported goods worth $40.9 million (Sh4.4 billion) and imports of $195 million (Sh21 billion) in 2013, the last year for which data was available.
