Kenya’s PAVRISK proposes new 2026–2028 music, audio-visual tariffs

The draft sets fees for a wide range of businesses and activities, including entertainment venues, broadcasters, hotels, public transport operators, political campaigns, and online streaming services. Charges vary depending on location, business size, and classification.

For example, proposed annual rates for private members’ clubs in cities would rise from KSh60 000 (about $465) to KSh150 000, while those outside major cities would increase from KSh45 000 to KSh120 000. Cinema theatres would remain at KSh100 000 annually. Exhibition of video shows would see a rise from KSh5 000 to KSh20 000 per hall.

Broadcasters would be charged 6% of gross revenues (excluding statutory taxes), subject to minimum annual fees. For national commercial broadcasters, this would be KSh960 000 for radio and KSh600 000 for television. Community broadcasters would pay KSh40 000 for radio and KSh30 000 for television annually.

The document also introduces new tariffs for sectors such as motorbikes (KSh1 000 annually), tuk-tuks (KSh1 500 annually), and elevators, with rates ranging from KSh4 000 to KSh8 000 depending on capacity. Hotels are categorised by star rating, with annual fees ranging from KSh200 000 for one-star to KSh600 000 for five-star establishments.

Digital and online broadcasting services would be charged a minimum of KSh200 000 for commercial radio and KSh100 000 for commercial television. New media services, including streaming and ringtones, would be subject to 12% of gross revenues, with a minimum payment of KSh500 000.

PAVRISK’s draft notes that the tariffs cover all rights for authors, composers, publishers, producers, and performers of music, as well as rights in audio-visual works. Religious in-service use is exempt. Penalties for non-compliance are set at 5% per month, compounded for the period the tariff remains unpaid.

The proposed tariffs are subject to consultation before being finalised.

Download the draft here for more information about the proposed Consolidated Music and Audiovisual Tariffs for 2026–2028.