The entry of Netflix into Kenya has caused a stir and this time it is the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) who have a bone to pick with the on-demand internet streaming media. Speaking earlier today, the Board’s Chairman Bishop Jackson Kosgei expressed concern that some of the film content available within online platforms such as Netflix contains elements of nudity in contravention of the laws governing film and broadcast content in Kenya. Kosgei added that most of the regulatory considerations used to rate the content varies in different countries and all content in Kenya should be rated in accordance with the country’s regulations transmission mode not withstanding.
These are however misplaced concerns as some of the shows that are on the Netlflix platform are readily available in the movie retailers shops countrywide at a reasonable fee and on free to download (or stream) sites. The difference here is that now you can access the same content on the Netflix site. (Read here to see how much it will cost for you to access Netflix in Kenya). With the continuous increase in access to the internet, one can find whatever content they wish to consume online on demand so the option to do so with Netflix is nothing new.
Most of the content on Netflix is also available on DStv with almost the same classification and yet we haven’t heard the same comments by KFCB being directed at them.
KFCB should instead be questioning how they will get local content on the site and make it accessible to the global audience. They should work on laws that will ensure that the local filmmakers are incorporated in production of local content by Netflix, should the latter decide to do so. KFCB should also learn from Netflix on how to improve distribution of local content to a greater audience and make a step towards achieving the potential of the film industry in Kenya. In the wake of change, instead of devising ways to fight it, embrace it and find ways to make it work for you.