Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya (GRA) Appoints Mr. Peter Maina Karimi as New Director General
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya (GRA) has officially appointed Mr. Peter Maina Karimi as its new Director General, effective 26th February 2026.
The search began on 23rd January 2026 when the GRA announced the vacancy. Candidates were required to be Kenyan citizens with at least ten years of senior management experience and to meet the high integrity standards outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution. After the application deadline on 6th February 2026, Mr. Karimi was selected for a three-year term position.
As Director General, Mr. Karimi will oversee the Authority’s daily operations, policy formulation, and the implementation of strategic decisions by the Board. His role is crucial in fulfilling the GRA’s mandate under the Gambling Control Act, 2025, including licensing approved gambling activities and shutting down illegal operations.
The Board of Directors, led by Chairperson Hon. Joseph Kirui Limo, expressed full confidence in Mr. Karimi’s ability to lead. With nearly two decades of leadership in gaming, telecommunications, mobile technology, payment systems, and digital services, he is recognized as a founder of Acumen Communications Limited, which established the gaming platform mCHEZA and the mobile payment platform Umsuka Capital Ltd. Mr. Karimi’s extensive experience and strong commercial acumen position him to steer the GRA toward modernization, integrity, and responsible gaming.
Read Also: Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya Opens Recruitment for Director General/CEO
The establishment of the GRA marks a significant shift in the industry, replacing the former Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB). During the transition, the Authority was led by Acting Director General Mr. Peter Mbugi, whom the Board thanked for his dedication and leadership.
“We wish to also thank the Ag DG Mr Peter Mbugi for having led the team for several years and his dedication in managing change during the transition period from BCLB to GRA and we wish him well in his role to be announced in due course,” the Board said.
The Board urges all staff and stakeholders to support Mr. Karimi as he settles into his new role and undertakes reforms aimed at promoting responsible gaming, protecting consumers, and ensuring that the industry operates in a fair, transparent, and accountable manner.
