Kenya’s gambling sector gears up for GRA takeover as law firm flags compliance overhaul
CM Advocates LLP urges Kenya’s gambling industry to review policies and align with the new Gambling Regulatory Authority framework ahead of the 2026 transition.
Kenya.- Leading law firm CM Advocates LLP is urging Kenya’s gambling industry to prepare for the upcoming regulatory transition, highlighting the broad powers of the new Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) under the Gambling Control Act, 2025. This law, which received presidential assent in August 2025, modernises Kenya’s gambling sector by introducing stricter compliance measures, enhancing consumer protection and consolidating oversight under a unified framework.
The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has suspended all new and renewal gambling licence applications in preparation for the handover to the GRA, expected to be completed by February 2026. Existing licence holders may continue operations under their current terms until the transition is finalised. Operators and stakeholders have been urged to monitor official updates closely.
In a recent Regulatory Alert, CM Advocates LLP stated: “Operators and stakeholders are advised to review internal policies and operational procedures to ensure alignment with the new regulatory framework under the Gambling Control Act, 2025.”
The firm also highlighted the broad powers of the GRA. “The GRA will oversee all gambling activities, consolidate oversight across online and county-level operations and enforce compliance through real-time monitoring, inspections and record checks. Proactive engagement with the GRA will be critical to ensure a smooth transition”, said the alert.
GRA brings stricter rules
The Gambling Control Act, 2025 introduces major reforms to strengthen accountability and consumer protection. The GRA will unify oversight across online and county-level operations, enforce advertising limits, implement self-exclusion programs and require operators to meet minimum capital thresholds to ensure financial stability.
Stricter penalties, including fines and imprisonment for illegal gambling activities, are also part of the new law. Technology, including AI and data analytics, will be integrated into monitoring systems to enhance transparency and oversight.
CM Advocates LLP added: “Early compliance with the new regulations will not only ensure legal conformity but also facilitate a seamless transition into the modernised regulatory era.”
The handover to the GRA marks a new chapter for Kenya’s gambling sector, defined by unified oversight, stronger consumer protections and robust regulatory enforcement.
