“We’re in Control” Kenya’s Regulator BCLB Says Amidst Surge in Misleading Media Reports on Gambling.

The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has released a strongly worded press statement addressing unfair criticism from some media outlets regarding Kenya’s gambling industry. The media reports have been based on exaggerated figures and unverified claims, prompting the BCLB to defend its oversight role and present facts to the public.

In their press conference, the Board clarified its mandate and outlined initiatives to regulate the betting industry, ensuring that public concerns are addressed and the sector contributes positively to the country’s social and economic fabric.

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The Chairperson of the BCLB refuted recent claims that Kenyans spent KES 766 billion on gambling in 2024, describing the figure as grossly exaggerated and not reflective of the licensed and regulated market. Instead, she clarified that taxes collected from the sector during the 2023/2024 financial year amounted to KES 22.3 billion.

The industry supports over 10,000 jobs directly and over 500,000 livelihoods, while investing in community projects as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives.

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BCLB has introduced several measures to tackle challenges associated with gambling. These include launching a functional complaints section to handle grievances, conducting nationwide public sensitization campaigns, and reinforcing advertising guidelines to prevent youth-targeted promotions.

The Board is also enhancing real-time monitoring of licensed operators through advanced digital platforms and ensuring stricter compliance through audits and surprise inspections.

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Other steps include revamping the self-exclusion registry to allow individuals to voluntarily bar themselves from gambling services, fostering partnerships with health institutions for rehabilitation support, and advocating for part of the industry’s revenue to fund addiction prevention and treatment programs.

Notably, the Gambling Control Bill, 2023, is a cornerstone of the Board’s reform agenda. The bill seeks to address gaps in the outdated legal framework established in 1966 by providing for stricter licensing conditions, better consumer protection, and more robust digital monitoring mechanisms. The Board has emphasized that this legislation is critical to safeguarding vulnerable Kenyans and responding effectively to the shift towards online gambling.

The BCLB reiterated its commitment to protecting the social and economic well-being of Kenyans. The Board called for unity among industry stakeholders, policymakers, and the public to ensure responsible gambling practices and preserve the nation’s social fabric. Through these initiatives, the BCLB aims to foster a well-regulated and sustainable gambling environment that benefits all Kenyans.

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