President Ruto signs landmark gambling control bill into law
Supporters view the bill as a necessary step to modernise Kenya’s gambling sector, foster responsible gambling practices and establish a safe and regulated environment for both operators and players alike.
Kenya.- President William Ruto has signed Gambling Control Bill 2023 into law, introducing stricter requirements for the Kenyan gambling industry. The legislation establishes the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA), a new unified body tasked with overseeing licensing, enforcement, taxation and compliance across all forms of gambling in the country.
Gambling operators face stricter licensing requirements under the new law, including proof of financial capacity, tax compliance and commitment to responsible gambling practices. They are banned from advertising their services between 6 am and 9 pm, and must now include licence details, responsible gambling messages and age-restriction warnings in their gambling promotions.
The bill imposes harsher penalties for illegal gambling activities, with fines reaching up to Ksh 5 million (€33,240) or imprisonment of up to two years. It also prioritises consumer protection by mandating self-exclusion options and placing limits on credit betting.
Supporters view the bill as a necessary step to modernise the gambling sector, foster responsible gambling practices and establish a safe and regulated environment for both operators and players alike. However, critics warn that overregulation could push gambling underground.
The timing of Ruto’s assent to the Gambling Reform Bill is strategic as it comes on the heels of the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) publishing the list of approved operators for the 2025/26 financial year. To maintain their operational status in the country, these betting companies must now adhere to the new regulatory framework.
