Dennis Itumbi, who leads Creative Economy and serves as Presidential Special Projects advisor, announced that the government intends to block numerous movie piracy websites in Kenya as part of a comprehensive initiative to safeguard local filmmakers and the nation’s creative industry.
In his statement, Itumbi emphasized that unauthorized streaming and piracy platforms have substantially impacted Kenyan filmmakers’ and content creators’ capacity to generate income from their projects and access international opportunities.
Itumbi mentioned that discussions with filmmakers and creative industry representatives have continued for the past week to develop approaches addressing digital piracy.
‘Shortly before this recording, Filmmaker’s Hangout reached out requesting a meeting to provide their input. I’ve had approximately 15 individuals express interest in contributing, and I’m grateful for their engagement,’ he stated.
He further noted he has dedicated the past four days to evaluating proposals, hearing from industry professionals, and examining anti-piracy measures implemented globally.
The official revealed that authorities, collaborating with Communications Authority of Kenya and the Ministry of ICT’s Standing Committee on Piracy, have pinpointed multiple websites reportedly engaged in distributing unauthorized films and television content.
The platforms named included Goojara.co, ftmovies.co, 123Movies, and Streamx.sa, which he stated draw millions of monthly visitors looking for complimentary access to movies and shows.
‘Certain aspects may be disappointing, but we must take necessary actions to defend our creative economy,’ Itumbi declared.
He additionally disclosed that officials have compiled a roster of about 84 unlawful websites facing potential blocking in Kenya.
This enforcement action responds to increasing apprehensions from local filmmakers who contend that widespread piracy has denied them earnings and deterred investment in Kenya’s cinematic sector.
Industry representatives have consistently maintained that unauthorized streaming and illicit downloads diminish original productions by restricting income from authorized platforms and theatrical releases.
Itumbi indicated that authorities have initiated a preliminary phase prior to the eventual shutdown of the targeted websites.
‘As I have responsibilities to fulfill, these sites will be taken down,’ he affirmed.
The proposed blocking measure is likely to provoke discussion among internet users, many dependent on complimentary streaming services for entertainment, despite authorities asserting that the action is essential to protect intellectual property rights and bolster Kenya’s expanding creative field.