BCLB under the pressure of pushing tighter controls on betting firms in Kenya
The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) is setting its sights on a legislative proposal that aims to enhance the oversight of Kenya’s gambling industry as calls for stricter regulations grow louder. This comes in response to the rise in the number of gambling companies establishing operations within the country recently. Reports indicate that advertisements for these platforms are becoming increasingly prevalent in prime-time slots on mainstream media, prompting concern among policymakers.
Surge in gambling firms amidst widespread participation
As of January of this year, the number of licensed gambling firms in Kenya has surged to 128, up from 99 just four months prior. This growth represents an increase of 29 new firms over a remarkably short period. The BCLB Chairperson, Dr Jane Makau, emphasised the necessity of the Gambling Control Bill, 2023, which is currently under review by Parliament. According to Dr Makau, the existing regulations established in 2019 to manage the marketing of gambling activities are no longer sufficient.
“The Bill, if passed, will prohibit youth-targeted promotions, mandate responsible gambling messages, and restrict broadcasting hours, among other strict measures,” Dr Makau explained. The mediation committees of both the Senate and the National Assembly are currently deliberating the proposed legislation.
To combat the rapidly expanding gambling culture, the BCLB is implementing advanced technology solutions to monitor licensed operators in real-time and identify unlicensed platforms. “The Board is set to enhance technical expertise, strengthening digital monitoring requirements, consumer protection clauses, and licensing conditions as contained in the Gambling Control Bill, 2023,” Dr Makau stated. The BCLB is also undertaking rapid administrative and regulatory sanctions to address unregulated gambling practices in Kenya. This involves conducting regular audits, surprise inspections, and revoking licenses from non-compliant operators. All licensed applicants are now required to submit responsible gaming guidelines and corporate social responsibility initiatives as part of the application process.
Addressing gambling addiction and promoting welfare
The prevalence of gambling among the Kenyan youth is concerning. Dr Makau noted that a significant percentage of young people are engaging in betting activities, with most sports bettors primarily using smartphones to access online platforms. “The above initiatives, amongst others, are key in safeguarding the well-being of the gaming community in the law since the current legal framework enacted in 1966 is inadequate to address current gambling challenges,” she stated.
This call for tighter regulations is timely given that a Geopoll report, “Betting in Africa 2024”, found that 83 percent of Kenyans surveyed admitted to placing a bet. Regarding the challenges associated with gambling, the BCLB is establishing collaborations with health institutions and non-governmental organisations to provide counselling for individuals affected by gambling-related issues.
“We are expanding collaborations with health institutions and NGOs to provide counselling to those who may be affected by gambling activities,” the BCLB Chairperson revealed. Furthermore, she highlighted that operators will be required to establish 24/7 hotlines, allowing punters to seek assistance and inpatient treatment for identified gambling disorders or addictions. A national self-exclusion programme is also in the works, which will permit individuals to ban themselves from all gambling services voluntarily.
Additionally, Dr Makau emphasised the importance of allocating a percentage of gross gaming revenue for addiction prevention and rehabilitation services. “This move is key in safeguarding the well-being of the gaming community,” she noted.
Which direction is the Kenyan market headed?
The gambling sector has generated substantial revenue, with taxes amounting to Sh22.3 billion (USD 172.12 million) in the financial year ending June 2024. However, projections indicate that the sector will yield only Sh20 billion (USD 154.4 million) in taxes by 2025, illustrating the robust but regulated growth of the industry.
Dr Makau dismissed a widely reported figure suggesting that Kenyans spent Sh766 billion on gambling in 2024, asserting that the number inaccurately includes offshore (unlicensed) platforms. “This misleads policymakers and the public on the economic reality of licensed operators,” she explained.
The BCLB has also initiated public sensitisation campaigns to educate Kenyans about the risks associated with gambling, as it recognises that gambling is a demerit good. Nationwide civic education will continue through county workshops, media initiatives, school programmes, and other outreach efforts.
The BCLB and its partners are fully committed to protecting vulnerable players and maintaining the social and economic health of communities affected by gambling activities in Kenya. As the legislative process unfolds, tightening regulations in the gambling sector is becoming an urgent priority for policymakers, given the rising numbers and potential social implications.
