Gaming to fund Kenyan counties

As much as 30 per cent of revenue from gaming could be sent to Kenyan counties should the proposed new Finance Bill pass.

Kenya.- Kenyan counties could soon get further funding if the National Assembly approves the new Finance Bill. That’s exactly why the Nairobi County is urging lawmakers to fast-track the proposed legislation that would send 30 per cent of revenue from gaming to different jurisdictions.

“Basically, we just want to align the Gaming and Betting Control Act such that the County Government has a role to play because it’s a devolved function and we feel that most functions are still in the National Government,” Nairobi Finance Executive Allan Igambi said. He also said that since most casinos are based in Nairobi, the county should be getting revenue from them.

National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich explained in June that companies from the gambling industry that fail to comply with tax payment will also be forced to pay a 20 per cent penalty and 2 per cent interest for delays.

“Mr Speaker, currently, there is no penalty or interest on payment of taxes in the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming sector which has led to non-compliance. In order to ensure compliance and prompt payment of taxes, I propose to introduce a 20 per cent penalty and 2 per cent interest on late payment of tax in the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act. This will enhance the collection of these taxes that are meant to support sports, arts, cultural and social development activities in our country.” he said in his Budget Statement.