CAK orders broadcasters to curb betting content within two weeks
In a decision aimed at addressing growing concerns about gambling-related content on air, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) has mandated all radio and television broadcasters to reduce the amount of betting, lottery, and gambling content on their airwaves. The directive comes with a 14-day deadline, following a letter signed by the Director General, David Mugonyi, on 23 April 2025. Should broadcast channels fail to comply with this order, they risk facing severe consequences, including the potential revocation of their broadcasting licenses.
Growing concerns about gambling content
The CAK’s stern warning is a response to the mounting consumer complaints regarding the prevalence of negative gambling programming. “The Authority has noted, with concern, an increase in the number of complaints raised by consumers regarding betting, lottery and gambling content that is aired on Television (TV) and FM Radio broadcasting stations,” the letter explicitly states. This heightened scrutiny highlights the Authority’s commitment to ensuring that broadcasters adhere to standards that reflect societal decency and responsibility.
Mugonyi emphasised the legal frameworks that underscore these regulations, reminding broadcasters of their obligations under the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998. “The purpose of this letter is, therefore, to notify all broadcasters to remedy these contraventions within 14 days from the date of this letter and adhere to the provisions in the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998: Licence Conditions and Programming Code,” he noted. Such frameworks are designed to protect the public from misleading advertisements and to ensure that the programming aligns with community standards.
In the letter, the CAK observed a significant issue—the excessive airing of gambling-related content. “The Authority has observed that programming with respect to betting, lottery and gambling activities for most broadcasting stations exceeds the approved quota in the programme schedule contrary to the provisions in the Licence Conditions, Programming Code and Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998,” Mugonyi stated, warning of the implications if broadcasting stations continue down this path.
Possible consequences for non-compliance
The ramifications for broadcasters who do not respond to this call to action could be severe. Mugonyi highlighted that enforcement action would be applicable should any broadcaster fail to rectify these contraventions: “The Authority will take enforcement action against a broadcaster who fails to remedy these contraventions in line with Section 83A(1) of the Kenya Information and Communications Act,1998; and/or revoke the licence as per Sections 46J(a) and (b) of the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998.” This strict warning signifies the seriousness with which the Communications Authority is approaching this growing issue.
Adding further weight to the CAK’s directive, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has indicated that the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) is collaborating with Parliament to reinforce existing laws aimed at enhancing oversight of gambling activities in the country, particularly concerning online platforms. “The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), in collaboration with Parliament, is fast-tracking the Gambling Control Bill, 2023, to modernise existing laws,” he stated.
Mwaura’s comments suggest a broader context to the CAK’s actions, unveiling an urgent drive to combat gambling addiction, which has detrimental effects on the Kenyan society. He cited various repercussions of gambling addiction, including the loss of property, reduced productivity, and even loss of lives.
A plea for ethical broadcasting practices
As the deadline approaches, the spotlight will be on the broadcasters to see how they respond to the directive set out by the Communications Authority of Kenya. The challenge lies in striking a balance between programming that meets the guidelines and satisfies the audience’s demands. Non-compliance could result in industry-wide disruption in broadcasting, as licenses are a significant component of operating assurances for these entities.
This case is a stark reminder of the responsibility that broadcasters bear in shaping societal discourse and influencing public opinion. As they face increased pressure to broadcast responsible programming, the CAK’s directive is essential in shaping a more regulated model of gambling programming in Kenya. As advocates for responsible broadcasting, stakeholders need to heed these warnings and consider the influence their programming has on society at large.
