Nairobi County is set to introduce a formal registration and identification system for street photographers, with recognised creatives expected to receive badges distinguishing them from unregistered operators.
Governor Johnson Sakaja announced the initiative on Wednesday, September 16, during an engagement with street photographers, saying it would give creatives a formal identity while allowing the County Government to identify and support photographers working across the capital.
Sakaja said the registration system would also help bring order to the growing number of street photographers while safeguarding those engaged in legitimate work.
“The County will introduce a formal registration and identification system for street photographers, including badges, to distinguish recognised creatives operating in the city,” Sakaja stated.
“The initiative will enable the County to identify and support photographers while giving them a formal identity as they carry out their work.”
The announcement came after photographers raised concerns about challenges they have faced while working in Nairobi, including alleged harassment and demands for bribes.
Sakaja said the new system builds on a 2022 decision by the county to allow street photographers to operate freely, creating opportunities for young people who rely on photography as a source of income.
Similar identification and licensing requirements exist in some international cities, although regulations differ depending on the nature and location of photography activities.
In London, street photography is generally allowed, although certain commercial activities and street entertainment in designated areas may require council licences.
In India, photographers offering commercial services around major monuments managed by the Archaeological Survey of India may also be subject to additional requirements, including identification or approval from relevant authorities.
The Governor also clarified that Nairobi's Finance Act does not impose charges on street photographers operating under the county's free photography arrangement.
He noted that the relevant photography provisions instead cover commercial heavy photography, which can attract county charges of up to Ksh50,000.
The County Government is also working to provide free Wi-Fi in selected areas of Nairobi, with Sakaja saying the initiative would help creatives promote their work and reach wider audiences.
Additionally, the county wants photographers to assist in documenting incidents of littering, illegal dumping, vandalism and other violations across the city.
The initiative will also involve documenting cases of improper conduct involving matatus and boda bodas as part of efforts to improve compliance and accountability in Nairobi.
