All radio and TV stations in the country have until July 1 to adhere to the programming code.
The Kenya Film Classification Board chief executive Ezekiel Mutua has stated that as of now, the board cannot enforce the code because there is a six months window beginning December 2015 for the programming code to be implemented.
Mutua stated that all radio programmes and music videos, even those in PSVs will be expected to fully comply.
‘"I have seen lots of comments on social media questioning why KFCB would be concerned with a three-seconds inappropriate scene in an ad when there are worse scenes on soaps and music videos being aired on television stations during the watershed period ( 5am -10pm ). Well, wait till July 1 when the programming code comes into effect. We cannot enforce the code now because it gave a six months window from December 2015. Radio programmes and music videos even in public transport vehicles will be expected to fully comply," stated Mutua via his Facebook page on Friday.
He warned that any breach of the programming code would attract serious penalties, including revocation of broadcast licences.
‘We have already notified media houses that come July 1 all TV and radio programmes must adhere to the watershed period principles and that all film and broadcast content including adverts must be rated by the Board in line with Section 3 of the Programming Code for free to air radio and television stations in Kenya. Any breach will attract serious penalties, including revocation of broadcast licences,’ added Mutua.
He has also stated that the board will ensure that children are protected from harmful content.
‘We will also ensure the implementation of the 40-60% local content rules,’ he stated via his status.