INDUSTRY data shows Kenyans spent more than Sh766 billion on gambling in 2024 which translates to about Sh2.1 billion daily and over Sh24,000 every second.
The gambling craze in the country is real.
Since its enactment in 1966, the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act, Chapter 131 Laws of Kenya underpinned the operations of gaming in Kenya since the first casino opened its doors to the gaming public in 1969.
In the past, gambling mainly occurred on landbased gaming operations such as casinos, lottery and horse racing (Ngong Racecourse).
In 2013, online gaming companies joined the scene propelled by the fast rising uptake of mobile money and mobile phones penetration.
The society is slowly sinking into addiction, a situation being worsened by the high unemployment in the country.
Gambling addiction can significantly impact a person’s life, from their health and finances to their relationships.
The Association of Gaming Operators of Kenya and government both agree that there is need for responsible gambling but how can this be done?
With the Betting Control and Licensing Board opening the new licensing period for the next financial year on May 1, the regulator must ensure a high level of compliance with the country’s industry regulations.
The problem of irresponsible gambling must be tackled by social responsibility initiatives that safeguard the integrity of the industry as well as promote awareness of harms associated with gambling.
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HISTORICAL QUOTE
“For too long we have borne your chains without thinking of shaking them off, but any authority which is not founded on virtue and humanity ... must come to an end, and that end is yours.” — The Haitian general and revolutionary Toussaint Louverture died on April 7, 1803
