Nation Media Group Limited (NMG) has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the unauthorized reproduction and distribution of its digital newspaper publications, particularly the E-Paper.
In a public notice published on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, NMG clarified that no person or entity has been authorized to reproduce, generate, or distribute digital or electronic versions of its E-Paper or any other publications.
“It has come to the attention of Nation Media Group Limited (NMG) that there are persons who have made and continue to make unauthorized copies of its various newspaper publications (E-Paper) and distribute them in digital format for sale on, among others, social media platforms,” part of the notice read.
The company emphasized that such actions amount to piracy, which infringes on its copyright and constitutes a criminal offense under Section 38 of the Copyright Act.
NMG urged individuals involved in reproducing, distributing, or retaining unauthorized copies of its publications to cease these activities immediately.
“Any person in current possession of the infringing works is required to immediately destroy such copies and desist from this or any other infringement of NMG’s rights to its publications in the future,” the notice stated.
The media house also warned that it is actively monitoring for violations and vowed to take legal action against offenders.
NMG cautioned that those found engaging in piracy after the notice date would face prosecution under the law.
“Surveillance is ongoing, and any person who commits any of the infringement actions above after the date of this notice shall be prosecuted for the criminal offenses and will suffer all the other rights and remedies afforded to NMG in law,” the notice warned.
NMG, whose flagship brands include Daily Nation (rebranded as Nation Africa), Business Daily, Taifa Leo, Daily Monitor (Uganda), and NTV, highlighted the penalties for piracy as outlined under the Copyright Act of 2001.
The Act prohibits the unauthorized reproduction, distribution, and sale of copyrighted works, including digital newspapers. The Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) has confirmed that piracy is a criminal offense, punishable by fines of up to Ksh800,000 or imprisonment for up to 10 years.
NMG’s notice serves as a reminder to the public to respect intellectual property rights and avoid any activities that infringe on the company’s copyrights.
