The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has announced a 30 day suspension on all gambling advertisements across all media platforms in Kenya, citing growing concerns over the increasing rates of gambling and addiction in the country.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 29, BCLB chairperson Jane Mwikali confirmed that the ban takes immediate effect and will impact all licensed gambling operators and their promotional activities.
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The directive, which takes effect immediately, applies to all licensed gambling operators and covers all forms of advertisement and promotion activity, including;
- Television and radio advertisements;
- Television and radio advertisements;
- Social media platforms;
- Print media (newspapers, magazines, flyers);
- Outdoor advertising (billboards, branded transport, etc.);
- SMS, email campaigns, and push notifications; and
- Celebrity endorsements and influencer marketing.
“In view of these occurrences, and pursuant to its statutory mandate under the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act (Chapter 131, Laws of Kenya), the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) hereby ORDERS the immediate suspension of all gambling advertisements and testimonials across all media platforms for a period of thirty (30) days with effect from the date of this statement,” read part of the statement.
The board expressed concern over the frequent airing of gambling advertisements during the period between 5:00 am and 10:00 pm, which they say increases exposure to vulnerable groups, especially minors, thereby contributing to gambling addiction.
Directives to Gambling Operators
During the suspension period, gambling operators will be required to submit all advertisement materials to the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) for assessment before airing.
They are also expected to adopt responsible gambling practices in accordance with the licensing and operational guidelines provided by BCLB.
“During this period of suspension, all licensed gambling operators and promoters shall ensure strict compliance with all applicable legislative and regulatory frameworks governing gambling and related advertising in Kenya,” the board added.
A multi-agency enforcement team has been deployed to formulate policies and recommendations to promote responsible gambling. The team comprises officials from the Ministry of Interior, Office of the Attorney General, Communications Authority of Kenya, Kenya Revenue Authority, Directorate of Criminal Investigations, KFCB, Media Council of Kenya, Financial Reporting Centre, and the BCLB.
The Regulators Recommendations
Additionally, BCLB has called upon the Communications Authority of Kenya to block and deactivate all unauthorised foreign gambling sites operating in the country.
“The Government remains firmly committed to safeguarding public welfare, protecting the youth, promoting social responsibility, and restoring integrity within Kenya’s gambling sector,” the board stated.
The National Assembly has also been urged to expedite the enactment of the Gambling Control Bill, which seeks to strengthen oversight and regulation of the sector.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has been encouraged to finalise and implement new guidelines that will enhance regulation of gambling advertisements within the media space.
