Nairobi nightclubs are receiving increasing complaints from customers who say their images are being taken and shared online without their consent.
Nightlife venues across the city routinely post photographs of revellers on social media as part of their marketing efforts, often relying on entrance notices that claim entry amounts to consent. However, many patrons, especially women, argue that these statements do not provide meaningful permission and fail to respect personal privacy.
Sheilah Muthoni, 33, once spent most Friday nights along Ngong Road until she became uncomfortable with the rise of roving photographers. She recalls that photographers previously sought some form of consent, but now take photos without warning, often in the middle of private conversations.
Her concerns deepened after she found an image of herself on a club’s Instagram page that she had not known was taken. One photograph was taken down after she contacted the venue, but another remains online despite repeated reports. Feeling unable to control how her image was used, she eventually stopped going out altogether.
“I’d rather have peace than pictures,” she said.
Many women say the problem extends beyond privacy to the risk of public criticism and objectification once photos circulate online. In one recent case, a Nairobi club posted an image that drew a stream of derogatory comments about a woman’s appearance.
Jennie, a 29-year-old corporate executive, says seeing her image online without approval was unsettling. She notes that photographs taken in clubs can be easily misinterpreted, particularly by employers who examine applicants’ online profiles.
“You’re dressed to have fun, not to be showcased for marketing,” she said.
