Kenya could recover up to $710 million (KSh 92 billion) annually for its creative sector if digital piracy is adequately addressed.
The country is estimated to lose approximately $132 million (KSh 17 billion) in tax revenue each year due to the widespread unlawful distribution of digital content.
As a result, Kenya is all set to revamp its copyright enforcement regime, with proposed laws requiring internet service providers (ISPs) to block piracy sites within 72 hours of receiving a complaint.
The draft Copyright and Related Rights Bill, 2026, would empower the Copyright Disputes Tribunal to block sites within 72 hours, allowing rights holders to respond quickly to unauthorised streaming of films, sports broadcasts, and other digital content.
The proposed regulation stems from a national multi-stakeholder forum on digital piracy organised by the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy.
The event brought together regulators, telecoms, broadcasters, and the creative industry to develop a unified enforcement agenda.
Speaking at the forum, Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy cabinet secretary William Kabogo said piracy has become a major economic threat that undermines jobs, investor confidence, and the sustainability of Kenya's creative sector.
“Kenya’s creative industry is a vital pillar of our digital economy, supporting thousands of jobs and driving innovation across film, music, sports broadcasting and entertainment. However, the rise of digital piracy threatens these gains,” he said.
The Kenya Copyright Board has invited the public and industry stakeholders to review and comment on the proposed Bill, with submissions due by March 31.
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