President William Ruto has recently signed the Gambling Control Bill of 2023 into law. The new legislation aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework to oversee betting, casinos, prize competitions, public lotteries, and media promotions.
A key feature of the Bill is the creation of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya, which will be responsible for licensing and regulating the gambling sector nationwide.
The legislation recognizes betting, casinos, and other gambling activities as shared functions between the National Government and county governments, proposing concurrent regulatory responsibilities for both levels of government.
The Bill further emphasizes the importance of integrating safe gambling principles within the sector to protect consumers and promote responsible gaming practices.
In addition to establishing regulatory structures, the Bill formalizes the legal recognition of betting and gambling as an integral part of Kenya’s entertainment and economic sectors. It seeks to regulate the operations of betting companies, casinos, and other gambling entities, ensuring transparency and accountability across the industry.
Overall, the enactment of the Gambling Control Bill signifies Kenya’s commitment to modernizing its gambling sector, fostering responsible betting, and creating a secure environment for both operators and players.
