In the past month, Kenya’s gambling industry has dominated mainstream media. But this attention has generally leaned toward negative narratives, highlighting the more unsavoury side of gambling rather than any positive outcomes that it can have.
A public health crisis: the rising cases of gambling addiction
One of the most gripping stories to emerge in recent times has to do with the increase in gambling addiction among Kenyans, especially the youth. In response to this public health concern, the government has established a rapid response team whose purpose is to deal with the increasing crisis. The team is meant to promote a coordinated approach to assisting individuals who have been impacted by gambling addiction.
“In response to this emerging public health threat, the ministry has established a rapid response team to mount a coordinated and multi-sectoral response to the emergency. The response involves setting up a special helpline for victims of gambling addiction,” Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni recently stated.
This move comes amid growing concerns over online wagering games, such as the popular Aviator. Some members of Parliament in Kenya have expressed strong objections to games such as Aviator, citing fears over their addictive nature and possible negative impacts on the youth. The levels of their discontent are so high that they have tabled a motion for discussion on its ban in Parliament, which is scheduled for today, 24 April 2025.
The move seeks to tackle the escalating gambling crisis in the country as legislators call for tighter regulations concerning online gambling websites. They believe that these games target vulnerable citizens, especially youths, and contribute to a new public health crisis. The MPs are calling for early parliamentary action to protect society from the risks of gambling.
Muthoni described the government’s determination to step in and deal with this crisis, saying, “The ministry will also send counsellors to schools to provide psychosocial support and roll out focused public campaigns to enlighten communities on the risks of online gambling.”
The public health ministry will carry out a multi-agency study to determine the prevalence and overall effect of gambling addiction in Kenya. The study aims to implement effective policies and programmes to address the crisis, highlighting the critical nature of the situation.
Mainstream media’s statistics
Apart from its coverage of addiction, the media has also brought out exaggerated reports of gambling spending in Kenya. More recently, mainstream media sources mentioned an exaggerated amount of Kes 766 billion (USD 5.89 billion), reporting that this was the amount spent by Kenyans on gambling. But the claim was promptly disowned by the Betting Control and Licensing Board.
The board refuted the figure, arguing that it exaggerates the size of the Kenyan betting market and misinforms policymakers about the regulated operators. They clarified that the gaming sector actually pays Kes 22.3 billion (USD172.4 million) in taxes in the form of gaming and betting excise duty on stakes and withholding tax on winnings.
PS Muthoni’s insisted that accountability and responsibility are essential: “The Ministry appeals to all parents, caregivers, and guardians to remain vigilant and play an active part in protecting children and young people,” she went on, “Monitor your children’s mobile app usage, create open and non-judgemental conversation about gaming, and be attuned to warning signs such as secrecy, sudden financial problems, or decline in academic performance.”
In spite of increasing worries regarding gambling addiction and responsible gaming, there also exist certain positive aspects of the industry that are not given much attention by the mass media. It generates employment, provides considerable tax revenue, and can contribute to economic growth if properly managed.
A balanced narrative
The image of the gambling industry presented by mainstream media is critical to public opinion and policymaking. While the legitimate and immediate concerns of addiction and deception in the industry must be addressed, the economic benefits of the industry and the possible role of responsible gambling practice cannot be overlooked.
As Kenya struggles with gambling issues, it is apparent that responsible and comprehensive regulatory frameworks are needed. In dwelling solely on the negative, mainstream media unconsciously diminish the industry’s potential to be a force for good in society.
