Kenya gambling regulator backs JOOUST research to curb betting harm
With the Gambling Regulatory Authority’s involvement, the collaboration has the potential to contribute to stronger national guidelines to reduce gambling-related harm.
Kenya.- The Gambling Regulatory Authority has expressed its support for efforts to address gambling-related harm in Kenyan universities, following a recent stakeholder forum at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST).
Oluoch Oyucho, Assistant Director at the Authority, attended the event on January 19, where he commended JOOUST’s research and confirmed the regulator’s willingness to work closely with the university and other partners.
Oyucho praised the findings from the Gambling Effects Among Vulnerable Groups in Public Universities in Kenya (GEPU) project. He said: “The varsity’s research on gambling harm is commendable. The findings will inform key policy decisions to regulate gambling in institutions of higher learning.”
He also outlined the Authority’s position on collaboration, stating: “The Gambling Regulatory Authority is ready to work with the university and other stakeholders in the country to mitigate the harmful effects of gambling.”
The forum marked the conclusion of follow-up activities for the GEPU project, which was funded by the Bristol Hub for Gambling Harms Research. JOOUST is now close to signing a formal agreement with the Gambling Regulatory Authority. The research will be shared with several institutions, including the University of Nairobi in Kenya, the University of Lagos in Nigeria, the University of Cape Town in South Africa and the University of Bristol in the UK.
Previous studies, including one conducted in 2016, have shown similar patterns of high betting participation among Kenyan university students, often driven by the hope of quick financial gains or entertainment. The current work focuses on providing practical support for those affected.
Students from modest backgrounds sometimes use loan money intended for fees to place bets, hoping for returns, only to face debt and emotional distress that jeopardise their education. Academic staff can also experience gambling-related pressures that affect their professional responsibilities.
JOOUST is developing a Gambling Harm Intervention Policy that includes measures such as restricting access to betting sites on campus networks, strengthening counselling services and working with the Higher Education Loans Board to ensure the direct payment of fees. The university has received an additional £6,000 (about €7,020) to refine the policy, which may serve as a model for other Kenyan institutions.
With the Gambling Regulatory Authority’s involvement, the collaboration has the potential to contribute to stronger national guidelines to reduce gambling-related harm, while acknowledging the legal status of gambling in Kenya.
