Code of Conduct

RESPECT. CONSENT. CARE

Curiosity & Open Mindset

We meet everyone with curiosity, kindness, and openness, regardless of gender identity, sexuality, ethnicity, age, ability, class, religion, or background. We work to remove barriers and support those who face them.

Safer Space

We continuously aim to build spaces safer for women, men, queer, trans, gender-diverse people and other marginalized communities - through our programming, staffing, and partnerships.

Safer space means learning, adjusting, and showing up for each other.

Tolerance for Discrimination

We do not tolerate:

• Sexism, racism, homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia, tribalism or there like
• Classism, ageism or body shaming
• Religious or cultural intolerance
• Any hate speech, symbols or actions that exclude or harm others.

Kilele is a space for freedom, community and creativity – not oppression or disrespect.

Those who violate this code will be asked to leave the premises and may be barred from future events.

Respect Boundaries

No means no. Stop means stop. Silence is not consent.

Any form of harassment, bullying, unwanted touching, catcalling or invasive behavior will not be tolerated. If you experience or witness such behavior, speak to any Kilele team member immediately. You define your own boundaries, and we will act.

Accessibility and Inclusion

Please use spaces mindfully and respect others´access needs. Kilele venues include wheelchair-accessible areas and toilets; staff are available to assist. If you encounter a barrier, tell us so we can address it and improve. Unfortunately a system providing assistance for visually/sonically impaired guests is not yet implemented.

Substance Safety

Take care of yourself and others around alcohol and substances.

• Never leave your drink unattended
• Don´t accept open drinks from people you don´t know or trust
• Stop drinking if something tastes or smells off

If you feel dizzy, confused, or unwell, seek help immediately. Report suspected drink tampering to Awareness Team or Security - do not confront anyone yourself. Substance-related harm will not be ignored or tolerated.

Cultural and Creative Responsibility

Our programming reflects our belief that music, art, culture, experimentation and technology can drive justice and change. We work with partners aligned with gender equity, environmental consciousness, and decolonial values. We commit to diverse lineups, fair representation, and inclusive dialogue on and off stage.

Community Care

Kilele is built by the community, for the community. Look out for one another: offer water, support, or help if someone seems unwell or overwhelmed. If you see something, say something - to support, not to shame.

Together, we create the space we all want to be in.

Disclaimer: Photography, Videography and Broadcasting

As part of Kilele´s mission to document and amplify creative expression, our spaces will include official photographers, videographers, and radio broadcasting through Calotropis Radio and the Independent Community Radio Network (ICRN).

We are committed to capturing the spirit of the festival while respecting your privacy and consent:

• If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, please inform our Awareness Team or media crew, who will respect your choice.
• Respect other attendees – always ask for consent before taking close-up photos or videos of individuals
• Recorded content may be used for Kilele´s communication, archival, or educational purposes – but never to misrepresent, exploit, or endanger participants

We invite all collaborators to uphold these standards of care and representation.

Disclaimer: Liability and Safety

While we do everything possible to create a safe and accessible environment, attendance and participation at Kilele are at your own risk. Neither Santuri East Africa, The Mall, nor any collaborating partners, sponsors, or festival venues can be held responsible for:

• Loss, theft, or damage of personal belongings
• Injuries, accidents, or medical conditions occurring on-site
• Actions of third parties or external service providers

We encourage everyone to take care of themselves and their belongings and to notify our team immediately in case of any incident. Our Awareness and Safety Teams are always on hand to support and respond.