
Broadcasting regulators in Africa are developing a regulatory framework for broadcast, video-on-demand and over-the-top content in both traditional and new media.
Regulatory bodies from South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria indicated that the framework is meant to control the unfiltered online content that poses a threat to vulnerable groups such as children.
Officials for the countries stated that digital services have become a place for child grooming and distribution of child sexual abuse material by syndicates that operate across African boundaries.
Research conducted by WeProtect Global Alliance reveals an increase in grooming; the production, viewing and sharing of online sexual abuse material; and live streaming content for payment.
Chief Executive Officers of the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB), the Film and Publication Board (FPB) of South Africa as well as the National Film and Video Censors Board of Nigeria, gathered recently to discuss ways to counter this threat and how to organise and synergise content regulation laws on the continent.
The Film and Publication Board (FPB) of South Africa is leading this project and will host officials from Eswatini Communications Commission and KFCB for training.
FPB’s acting CEO, Dr Mashilo Boloka, said, “The negative aspects must be mitigated through content regulation in order for members of society to obtain the highest value created by these digital spaces.”