Kenya’s Gambling Control Act drives jobs and economic growth
New law replaces outdated framework, strengthens oversight and opens up major opportunities for IT, hospitality and entertainment industries.
Kenya.- Kenya’s gambling sector is on the brink of a major transformation, with a new law expected to create thousands of jobs and position the industry as a cornerstone of economic growth. It introduces a modern framework designed to strengthen oversight, boost tax revenues and provide stability across the sector.
The Gambling Control Act 2025 officially came into effect on August 26, a few weeks after President William Ruto signed it into law on August 7.
David Moshi, Managing Director of Velex Advisory Kenya, former CEO of the Association of Gaming Operators-Kenya, and senior manager at Safari Park Hotel and Casino, said the law provides “long-awaited clarity to both operators and workers, ensuring sustainable growth.” He said, according to Kenyan Wall Street: “This is a recalibration of Kenya’s gambling industry to meet modern realities.”
The hospitality sector is also set to benefit. With casinos, betting shops and gaming lounges now under tighter oversight, hotels and resorts can confidently partner with licensed operators. Integrated gaming and leisure packages are expected to boost occupancy, diversify revenue and create jobs in customer service, events management and entertainment.
Moshi added: “The hospitality sector stands to benefit significantly from integrated gaming and entertainment packages.”
Gambling fuels jobs and revenue
Kenya’s gambling sector is already playing a key role in supporting the country’s public services. According to the Kenya Revenue Authority, excise duty from betting services reached KSh13.23bn (€96.5m) in the 2024/25 financial year, surpassing a target of KSh11.28bn (€82.2m) and up from KSh10.59bn (€77.2m) the previous year.
Parliamentary and industry sources estimate that the sector supports around 10,000 direct jobs and more than 500,000 indirect livelihoods. According to a report by industry consultancy SCCG Management, experts believe these numbers “could rise further under the new framework, particularly in IT and hospitality”.
At the heart of the reform is the new Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya, which replaces the Betting Control and Licensing Board. The body enforces strict licensing rules for online operators, including a KSh100m (€730,000) non-refundable fee and a KSh200m (€1.46m) security bond.
Analysts say this ensures that only serious, financially stable companies enter the market, creating long-term employment opportunities for IT professionals in platform development, cybersecurity and digital payments.
With clear rules, strong oversight and professional standards, Kenya’s gambling sector is ready to create real opportunities, including new jobs, thriving businesses and long-term growth for communities across the country.
