Peter Maina Karimi officially takes helm at Kenya’s Gambling Regulatory Authority
Karimi said the Authority will introduce stricter measures to address illegal gambling and strengthen responsible gaming controls.
Kenya.- Peter Maina Karimi has officially resumed office as Director General of Kenya’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA), following his appointment in February 2026. He takes over from Peter Mbugi, who had been serving in an acting capacity during the transition from the former Betting Control and Licensing Board to the newly established GRA.
Speaking as he assumed the role, Karimi said the Authority will introduce stricter measures to address illegal gambling and strengthen responsible gaming controls. One of the immediate priorities will be closer monitoring of gambling advertisements, with the regulator expected to enforce restrictions that limit betting adverts to late-night broadcast hours.
The Director General also indicated that the Authority will intensify efforts to identify and shut down unregistered gambling websites operating in Kenya. According to the regulator, unlicensed operators undermine compliance standards and reduce consumer protection, as players have little recourse when disputes arise.
Another key focus will be the protection of minors. Karimi warned that operators allowing individuals under the age of 18 to open betting accounts will face immediate enforcement action, including potential closure of the platform. Kenyan law prohibits underage participation in gambling activities, and the GRA is responsible for enforcing these restrictions through licensing and compliance monitoring.
Karimi said the regulator will also work with industry stakeholders and public institutions on awareness initiatives aimed at promoting responsible gambling practices. Such partnerships, he noted, are intended to improve public understanding of gambling risks and support a more structured and compliant betting environment.
The leadership transition comes at a time when Kenya’s gambling industry is experiencing rapid growth, particularly in the online betting segment. The GRA is expected to use its powers under the new law to strengthen licensing procedures, enforce compliance among operators and curb illegal market activity. With Karimi now officially in office, the Authority is poised to roll out additional regulatory measures as it consolidates oversight of the country’s betting and gaming sector under the updated legal framework.
