The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Kenya is preparing for a major overhaul of its gambling industry as new regulations proposed by the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) introduce stricter licensing and tighter oversight of betting operators.
On Monday, the National Assembly’s Committee on Delegated Legislation reviewed the draft regulations that could significantly reshape the multi-billion-shilling sector. The reforms aim to strengthen regulation and address rising concerns over gambling-related social harm.
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Under the proposed framework, all gambling operators will be required to apply for new licences, ending the current system of automatic renewals. The new structure will also introduce separate licences for online bookmakers, casinos, and lotteries, reflecting the growing shift toward digital gambling platforms.
Officials also proposed tighter regulation of popular online games such as Aviator, citing concerns over the use of algorithms and the risk of encouraging addictive gambling behaviour.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku acknowledged that while the sector contributes significantly to government revenue—about Sh14 billion annually—it also presents serious social challenges.
He warned that gambling addiction has led to financial ruin in some households, including cases of bankruptcy and loss of property, stressing the need for stronger safeguards to protect families.
Committee chairperson Samuel Chepkonga urged lawmakers to expedite the approval process, noting that the transition period for finalising the regulations is nearing its deadline.
However, Members of Parliament raised concerns about several provisions in the draft rules, describing some as vague and potentially open to abuse.
Kilgoris MP Julius Sunkuli questioned the proposed “fit and proper” requirement for licence applicants, warning that unclear standards could give regulators excessive discretion in decision-making.
Other MPs also scrutinised proposed capital requirements, cautioning that overly high thresholds could discourage genuine investors from entering the market.
Lawmakers further pushed for stricter advertising controls, including a proposed ban on gambling adverts between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., and demanded safeguards to prevent gambling products from being disguised as investment schemes.
Concerns over protection of minors were also raised, with legislators seeking clarity on how underage gambling would be prevented and whether licensing fees would be standardised across counties.
Kathiani MP Robert Mbui also questioned a requirement for applicants to present two years of audited financial statements, arguing that it could exclude new entrants who are yet to establish business records.
Despite the concerns, the committee is expected to continue reviewing the regulations later this week due to their urgency.
If implemented, the GRA plans to introduce a central monitoring system to detect problem gambling behaviour, with measures such as account suspension, counselling referrals, and other responsible gaming interventions.
The authority, currently operating with limited staff, says the new regulations are necessary to improve accountability, protect consumers, and promote responsible growth in Kenya’s gambling industry.
