Gaming operators in Kenya hit back at government advert ban
The Association of Gaming Operators-Kenya (AGOK) slams blanket suspension of gambling ads, calling it a blow to compliant firms and a win for illegal operators.
Kenya.- The Association of Gaming Operators-Kenya (AGOK) has come out swinging against the government’s sweeping suspension of all gambling advertisements, labelling the move as unfair and counterproductive.
In a strongly worded statement released on April 30, AGOK said the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) had “erred” in issuing a blanket ban that lumps tax-compliant licensed firms together with rogue operators.
The BCLB directive, dated April 29, halted all gambling-related adverts and testimonials across media platforms for 30 days, citing a surge in gambling activity and misleading promotions.
“Some gambling promoters are increasingly mischaracterising gambling as a legitimate investment opportunity and a shortcut to wealth creation,” said BCLB Chairperson Jane Mwikali.
“The erroneous depiction occasions adverse socioeconomic consequences, with devastating effects on individuals, families and the broader community.”
AGOK’s fierce response
But AGOK isn’t buying the one-size-fits-all approach.
“Blanket advertising bans inadvertently penalise compliant tax-paying firms that have invested significantly in responsible gaming, while offshore and illegal operators continue to operate,” the association said.
The group, which represents licensed industry stakeholders, is now calling for urgent dialogue with the BCLB, the newly formed Multi-Agency Enforcement Team, and other players to co-create balanced advertising guidelines that support responsible gaming without crippling lawful businesses.
“AGOK is actively working on amplifying its nationwide responsible gaming campaign in collaboration with BCLB, psychologists and media partners,” the operators said.
The association has also thrown its weight behind the creation of clear, transparent advertising standards developed jointly with regulators, media and the industry.
“We request collaboration in identifying and eliminating illegal and offshore platforms and gambling dens that target Kenyan consumers,” AGOK said, underscoring its commitment to fair taxation and ethical operations.
As the country grapples with rising concerns over gambling’s social impact, AGOK is urging policymakers not to sideline legitimate operators who, they argue, are part of the solution, not the problem.
“We call upon all stakeholders to work together towards a safer, more transparent and ethical gaming environment in Kenya,” it concluded.
The stage is now set for a showdown or perhaps a much-needed conversation between regulators and industry players on the future of gambling in Kenya.
