NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has warned parents and guardians to tighten supervision of children’s screen time during the October–December school holiday, citing the risk of exposure to inappropriate audiovisual content on television, social media, streaming services and online gaming platforms.
In a consumer advisory issued ahead of the extended holiday period, the Board urged parents to activate parental controls, set screen-time limits and ensure children access content suitable for their age.
The warning comes as learners spend nearly two months away from school, potentially increasing the time they spend online and on entertainment platforms without the usual school-day routines.
KFCB said the holiday period required greater vigilance from both families and businesses distributing or exhibiting audiovisual content.
Gaming Operators, Broadcasters Put on Notice
The Board reminded broadcasters, audiovisual content distributors and exhibitors to comply with licensing and content-classification requirements.
The notice specifically covers video-show operators, PlayStation businesses and gaming-platform operators, which KFCB said must ensure children are not exposed to age-inappropriate material.
The agency also plans to intensify compliance monitoring during the holiday, including inspections of audiovisual premises where children may be admitted and potentially exposed to adult content or illegal filming.
The measures form part of the Board’s consumer-protection role in regulating Kenya’s audiovisual industry.
Parents Urged to Look Beyond Screen Time
KFCB said child protection should extend beyond restricting what children watch or play online.
Parents, guardians and caregivers were encouraged to talk to children about the material they encounter online, promote educational and family-friendly entertainment, and guide them towards constructive holiday activities.
The Board also urged adults to remain attentive to children’s whereabouts, peer interactions and environments, warning that school holidays can expose young people to harmful influences, including substance abuse.
It said protecting children’s well-being required active supervision both online and offline.
Public Asked to Report Inappropriate Content
KFCB said it was working with other government agencies to strengthen monitoring and compliance throughout the holiday season.
Members of the public who encounter inappropriate audiovisual content can report it to the Board through info@kfcb.go.ke or its official social media platforms for appropriate action.
The agency urged families and content operators to take responsibility for safeguarding children during the break, emphasising that child protection remains necessary even when schools are closed.
The advisory was issued by acting KFCB Chief Executive Officer Nelly Muluka under the Board’s message, “Safeguarding Your Reel World!”
