Photo:Nafula Sharlee/Facebook
A Kenyan businesswoman based in the United States has issued a warning to young Kenyans living abroad, urging them to understand strict child protection laws and the serious legal consequences of possessing or sharing illegal content involving minors.
US-based entrepreneur Nafula Sharleen sparked online debate after sharing a cautionary message highlighting how easily individuals can find themselves in legal trouble without direct involvement in wrongdoing.
In a Facebook post, Sharleen warned that a 19-year-old Kenyan in the US could face serious charges if found with explicit material involving minors.
She emphasized that the offence does not require participation in abuse, noting that viewing, storing, or forwarding such material is treated as a serious crime under US law.
She explained that recipients of such content may still be held responsible if they fail to delete it or report the sender.
According to her warning, simply opening and watching the material can attract legal consequences.
“You don’t have to be the one committing abuse; even watching videos or photos of someone else harming a minor makes you guilty. Be aware!” she stated.
Sharleen also highlighted risks linked to group chats and shared devices.
She cautioned that members of messaging groups where illegal content is shared could be implicated if they remain in the group or keep the files.
“If a WhatsApp group shares illegal videos and you don’t leave the group or delete the content, you are also liable," she added.
In addition, lending phones or laptops to friends who access prohibited material could place the device owner at risk of investigation.
The businesswoman stressed that possession of such content is a criminal offence regardless of intent and may lead to arrest, prosecution, and immigration consequences, including deportation.
She urged parents and guardians in the diaspora to educate their children about online safety and the dangers of sharing or discussing illegal material.
She noted that students can unknowingly encounter such content through classmates’ group chats, exposing them to serious legal risks.
Sharleen concluded by advising Kenyans abroad to remain vigilant and informed about the laws governing digital conduct in their host countries, warning that a single mistake could jeopardize education, employment, and immigration status.
Her message has drawn widespread attention among diaspora communities, with many agreeing that awareness is essential to protect young people and safeguard their future opportunities overseas.