Kenya Film Classification Board CEO Ezekiel Mutua has vowed to move to court to stop a Kiss Condom advert running on Kenyan Television.

According to Mutua, the advert by Kiss condoms publicizing its Chocolate, Strawberry and Classic brands was inappropriate and “obnoxious”, exposing children to adult content.

In statement, Mutua said that he had received messages from concerned parents regarding this obnoxious advert appearing on TV during the watershed period. “We have written warning letters to the producers of the advert and the media houses concerned and we are following up the matter to ensure that the advert does not run during the watershed period. We are keen to protect children from premature exposure to adult content,” he added.

“Adverts for alcohol, condoms or such other products meant for adults should not air during the watershed period which in Kenya is between 5am to 10pm. Programs aired during this period on free to air radio and TV should be suitable for family viewing.”

He further stated, “Programs with scenes or language meant for adults are not suitable during the watershed period. It’s a breach of the Films and Stage Plays Act Cap 222, KICA Section 46 (i) and the Programming Code for free to air radio and TV stations in Kenya to air such programs or adverts at prime time when there is a likelihood of children watching TV or listening.”

The rationale behind content regulation is to promote Kenya’s culture, moral values and national aspirations and to ensure that children are protected from premature exposure to adult content.

The move comes months after an outdoor advertising company was forced to pull down a billboard over an ‘explicit’ message.