Huduma Kenya has clarified rules requiring special permits to film videos inside government offices, emphasizing security and privacy risks. The statement followed a social media query from a user about recording short educational clips at a Huduma Centre. The agency warns that violations could lead to up to 14 years in prison under Kenyan laws.
Huduma Kenya, the government agency providing public services, has issued a clarification on the rules for filming inside its offices and facilities. This came in response to a social media query from a user asking if they could record short educational video clips using a mobile phone at a Huduma Centre.
According to Huduma Kenya, filming inside government offices is a highly regulated activity. It requires specific permits from the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) and, in many cases, additional clearance from the relevant ministry or agency overseeing the facility. "Filming in government offices and installations in Kenya is a highly regulated activity requiring specific permits from the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) and, in many cases, special clearance from the relevant ministry or agency," the agency stated.
This regulation is based on the Films and Stage Plays Act (Cap 222), which deems unauthorized filming illegal and a potential security risk. Additionally, the Official Secrets Act prohibits taking photographs or filming restricted places without permission from the officer in charge, including police stations, military camps, telecommunications offices, government offices, and Huduma centres. Such violations can result in up to 14 years in prison.
Privacy concerns are also addressed under the Data Protection Act 2019 and Article 31 of the Constitution, which protect against filming individuals without consent, as a person's image is considered personal data. Interfering with a public officer's duties through filming may be contested as obstruction under administrative laws.
Some users criticized the response, questioning why the public needs permission when the officers are Kenyans themselves. To film legally, individuals can obtain authorization from the KFCB and the officer in charge, while respecting data privacy.
This highlights how Kenyan laws strictly control media activities in public spaces to ensure security and individual rights.