This archive report was first published on 21 June 2021.
June 21, 2021, marked a significant event in Kenya's film sector as the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) Chief Executive Officer, Ezekiel Mutua, officially opened the Njoki Karuoya Creative and Media Center at Kariandusi within Gilgil Sub-County.
Mr. Mutua highlighted the growing concern of copyright infringement in Kenya, particularly through the internet. He noted that many Kenyans are unaware that sharing or downloading creative content without the owners' authority constitutes an offense.
The KFCB boss emphasized the need for public awareness on copyright infringement, citing the existence of websites that allow users to download music or other creative content at a fee without the original owners' authority.
Mr. Mutua also called on artists to conform to social norms and values when creating content, stating that 'art does not have to be dirty to sell.' He added that the ministry of Information Communication Technology has mandated local broadcasters to ensure at least 40 percent of their content is made domestically.
Former Naivasha Member of Parliament John Muthutho encouraged Kenyan youth to leverage emerging opportunities, such as social media platforms, to expand the local film sector. He emphasized the importance of educating Kenyans to protect homegrown talent by shunning acts that infringe on copyrights.
Ms. Njoki Karuoya, the brainchild behind the Creative and Media Center, expressed her desire to revive Kenya's cinema-watching culture, particularly in rural areas, to provide a ready market for local productions.
