The Government has imposed an immediate 30-day ban on all gambling advertisements across media platforms in a move to combat the normalization of gambling and its negative effects on society.
The directive was issued by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) under the Ministry of Interior, led by Chairperson Dr. Jane Mwakali Makau. A Multi-Agency Enforcement Team including the Communications Authority, Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB), and Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), among others, has been formed to ensure compliance.
“The ban took effect on April 29, 2025, and will last for 30 days. It applies immediately to all operators licensed under the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act,” Dr said.
The ban applies across Kenya, affecting all national and local media, including TV, radio, social media, newspapers, outdoor ads (e.g., billboards), SMS promotions, and digital influencer content.
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According to the BCLB, gambling is being misleadingly portrayed as an investment opportunity, especially during daytime hours (5:00 am to 10:00 pm) when vulnerable populations, including children, are likely to be exposed. The state cites rising gambling addiction, youth unemployment, mental health concerns, and family instability as reasons for the urgent action.
To ensure strict compliance with the 30-day suspension on gambling advertisements, the government also outlined a comprehensive enforcement strategy, coordinated by a newly constituted Multi-Agency Enforcement Team.
The team will comprise key regulatory bodies, including the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Financial Reporting Centre, Media Council of Kenya (MCK), Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Interior and National Administration.
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According to BCLB Chairperson Dr. Jane Mwakali Makau, all existing and upcoming advertising materials must now be submitted to the KFCB for mandatory review and certification, in accordance with the provisions of the Films and Stage Plays Act (Cap 222, Laws of Kenya).
Additionally, the Communications Authority has been directed to block access to all unlicensed foreign betting platforms that continue to reach Kenyan users through digital channels. These sites, the government argues, pose a direct threat to regulatory efforts and consumer protection.
Licensed gambling firms have been reminded of their obligations to adhere to the terms of their permits. Any firm found violating the directive risks facing administrative penalties, including suspension or revocation of licenses.
To further strengthen the regulatory oversight, the Media Council of Kenya has been tasked with developing new programming and advertising guidelines for gambling-related content. These new rules are expected to guide broadcasters, publishers, and digital influencers on acceptable standards.
Public participation has also been encouraged. They are urged to lodge formal complaints either directly with the BCLB or report to the nearest police station for immediate investigation and necessary action.
By Cornelius Korir
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