The Director of the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), Peter Mbugi presented new measures to the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Finance and Planning. These proposals aim to curb casual and speculative entries into the lucrative betting sector.
Highlights of the Proposed Regulations
- Mandatory Selfie for Registration: All individuals registering for betting accounts will be required to submit a selfie.
- Reduction of Betting Companies: The new law seeks to significantly decrease the number of betting companies operating in the country, thereby ensuring smooth-running of the industry and enhancing regulatory oversight.
- Addressing Underage Gambling: The comprehensive rules are also focused on tackling the critical issue of underage gambling, which poses a significant societal concern.
- Increased Minimum Capital Requirements:
- Small-Scale Betting Shops: A proposed minimum capital investment of Ksh 50 million.
- Public Gaming Operators (e.g., casinos): An increase to Ksh 5 billion in capital requirements.
- National Lottery and Online Gambling Firms: A requirement to deposit Ksh 200 million to obtain a license, pending presidential approval of the new bill.
Enforcement Actions
Mbugi reported that the BCLB, in collaboration with the Communication Authority of Kenya, has shut down over 106 unauthorized gambling websites.
Advertising Regulations
The new regulations stipulate that:
- All gambling advertisements must be classified by the Kenya Film Classification Board.
- Ads should only be aired during designated times outside the watershed period, as gambling is considered adult content.Mbugi emphasized the importance of controlling gambling advertisements in the media, stating it is a key factor in addressing the rising levels of gambling activity. These measures aim to create a more regulated and responsible betting environment in Kenya.
