The Kenyan government has launched a bold crackdown on gambling syndicates, suspending all gambling advertisements across all media platforms for 30 days, effective immediately.
The move, spearheaded by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), aims to protect vulnerable populations, particularly minors, from the growing threat of gambling addiction.
BCLB Chairperson Jane Mwikali Makau voiced concerns over the flood of gambling ads aired during the 5:00 am to 10:00 pm watershed period, which she said exposes young people to misleading promotions portraying gambling as a quick path to wealth.
“These advertisements are drawing minors into addiction, with devastating effects on families and communities,” she stated.
The suspension bans all forms of gambling promotions, including TV and radio commercials, social media campaigns, print ads, billboards, SMS notifications, and influencer endorsements.
Licensed operators must now submit ads to the Kenya Film Classification Board for approval, ensuring compliance with strict regulations.
The directive comes amid rising alarm over gambling’s socioeconomic toll, with youth increasingly lured by false promises of easy money. The BCLB has urged the public to report violations to police or the board for swift action. Meanwhile, the government has requested the Communications Authority of Kenya to block unlicensed foreign gambling websites to safeguard consumers.
To strengthen oversight, the BCLB is pushing for the National Assembly to fast-track the Gambling Control Bill, which would grant the regulator greater enforcement powers. The Media Council of Kenya has also been tasked with updating advertising guidelines to align with recent court rulings.
A newly formed Multi-Agency Enforcement Team, including the Ministry of Interior, Kenya Revenue Authority, and Directorate of Criminal Investigations, will develop policies to promote responsible gambling. The government emphasized its commitment to restoring integrity in the gambling sector and protecting public welfare.
“This is about safeguarding our youth and promoting social responsibility,” the BCLB stated. Stakeholders, from betting firms to media houses, have been urged to comply fully with the directive in the national interest.
