Prohibited Items Policy

Shopi connects buyers and sellers, but that doesn't mean anything can be listed. This policy sets out what you cannot post, sell, or promote on Shopi. It's based on Kenyan law and general marketplace safety standards.

Listing a prohibited item may result in content removal and account suspension or termination. Some violations may also be reported to law enforcement.

The following can never be listed on Shopi, regardless of licensing or intent:

• Illegal drugs and controlled substances — narcotics, psychotropic substances, and drug paraphernalia intended for illegal drug use
• Weapons — firearms, ammunition, explosives, and weapons whose sale is restricted or banned under Kenyan law (e.g. the Firearms Act)
• Counterfeit goods — fake or unauthorised replicas of branded products
• Stolen property — any item you don't have the legal right to sell
• Human remains or body parts
• Wildlife and endangered species products — ivory, bushmeat, or any item prohibited under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act
• Dangerous chemicals and hazardous materials — substances that pose a safety risk if mishandled, including unlicensed pesticides and industrial chemicals
• Fraudulent documents — fake IDs, forged certificates, counterfeit currency, or academic credentials
• Financial scams and pyramid/Ponzi schemes — including "quick money" investment schemes and unregistered multi-level marketing that relies on recruitment rather than product sales
• Recalled products — items officially recalled for safety reasons
• Content sexually exploiting minors — reported immediately to relevant authorities

Some categories are not banned outright but come with restrictions:

• Prescription medicines: Cannot be sold by unlicensed individuals. Only listable by licensed pharmacies or medical suppliers who comply with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board's requirements.
• Alcohol and tobacco products: Sellers must comply with Kenyan licensing requirements and age-verification obligations; listings must not target minors.
• Live animals: Must comply with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and any relevant transport/welfare regulations. No listing of animals obtained illegally or through poaching.
• Adult content and services: Sexual services and pornographic content are not permitted on Shopi.

Kenyan law regulates many of these categories directly, and some can cause real harm if traded without proper oversight. Where a category is restricted rather than banned, sellers are responsible for holding any required licences and following the applicable law — Shopi does not verify licences before a listing goes live, so buyers should always ask a seller for proof where it matters (for example, with medicines).

If you see a listing you believe violates this policy, please report it — see our Contact Us page or use the in-app reporting tools where available. We review reports and remove violating content.

We may update this list as Kenyan law changes or as we learn more about how the platform is used. Check back periodically for updates.