The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has intensified inspections of matatus and other Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) fitted with entertainment screens to prevent children from being exposed to inappropriate content.
The agency said it was working with the National Police Service (NPS) and other stakeholders to ensure operators only exhibit child-friendly audiovisual material, particularly during the long school holidays.
“Operators of PSVs are cautioned against exhibiting inappropriate audiovisual content that may expose children to harmful material,” KFCB warned.
The crackdown comes as schools remain closed for the long end-of-year holidays, with the December festivities expected to increase the number of children travelling in public transport vehicles, either alone or with their families.
KFCB noted that children were bound to encounter inappropriate material while using matatus and other PSVs fitted with screens, placing responsibility on operators to ensure that the content displayed is suitable for younger passengers.
The Board also called on members of the public to report cases where minors are exposed to inappropriate audiovisual content in public transport vehicles and other public or private spaces.
“Protecting children from exposure to inappropriate audiovisual content, both online and offline, is a collective responsibility that requires the vigilance and active participation of all stakeholders,” the agency stated.
Members of the public can report violations through the Board's email address or its social media platforms for investigation and appropriate action.
The latest inspections follow an October 27 advisory in which KFCB announced increased monitoring of online platforms and inspections of audiovisual premises for three months to protect children from adult content.
At the time, the agency said it was working with other government institutions to increase compliance in establishments such as gaming hubs, where minors could encounter adult material or be exposed to illegal filming.
KFCB also warned that the long school holiday could increase children's screen time, exposing them to inappropriate material on television, streaming services, social media and gaming platforms.
The Board urged broadcasters, content distributors, exhibitors, video-show operators and gaming platform operators to comply with licensing and content classification requirements.
Under the Children Act, 2022, offences involving making obscene material electronically accessible to children can attract imprisonment, a fine of up to Ksh2 million, or both, depending on the offence committed.
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