Nairobi County is set to introduce official registration and identification badges for street photographers working across the capital.
Governor Johnson Sakaja announced the plan on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, during a meeting with photographers and other creatives in Nairobi.
The new system will help the county identify recognized photographers and distinguish them from unregistered operators.
Badges for Photographers
Sakaja said the county will issue badges to recognised street photographers. The badges will give creatives a formal identity as they work around Nairobi.
The move also aims to help the county identify and support photographers who depend on the trade for their livelihoods.
Tackling Harassment
The announcement followed concerns raised by photographers during the meeting. Some photographers said they had previously faced harassment and demands for payments while working in the city.
Sakaja said the new system will help protect photographers carrying out legitimate work. He also noted that Nairobi has allowed street photographers to operate freely since 2022. The policy aimed to create jobs for young people and promote creativity.
No Fee for Street Photography
Meanwhile, Sakaja clarified concerns over photography charges under the Nairobi County Finance Act. He said the county’s free photography arrangement does not charge street photographers for ordinary street photography.
However, the county’s provisions cover commercial heavy photography, which can attract charges of up to KSh50,000. Therefore, the planned registration system should not be confused with a blanket photography fee.
Free Wi-Fi Coming
The county is also working on free Wi-Fi in selected parts of Nairobi. According to Sakaja, the service will help creatives market their work and reach wider audiences online.
For street photographers, better internet access could also make it easier to upload and share content while working in the city.
Photographers as Ambassadors
Sakaja also urged photographers to help tell Nairobi’s story through their cameras. He encouraged them to showcase the city’s attractions, businesses and everyday life.
At the same time, he asked photographers to document issues such as littering, illegal dumping and vandalism. They can also report violations involving matatus and boda bodas through the appropriate channels.
However, Sakaja reminded photographers to respect people’s privacy, safety and personal spaces while working.
What Happens Next?
The registration and badge system is yet to be rolled out. Once introduced, it will give Nairobi street photographers a formal way to identify themselves while creating a clearer relationship between the county and the city’s creative community.
The county also says it wants to support young creatives and help them turn their skills into sustainable livelihoods.
