BCLB Suspends All Gambling Advertisements for 30 Day Over Addiction
In a bold move aimed at curbing the rising tide of gambling addiction, Kenya’s Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has imposed a nationwide suspension on all gambling-related advertisements across all forms of media. The directive, which took effect on Tuesday, April 29, is set to last for 30 days.
What the Ban Covers
According to BCLB Chairperson Jane Mwikali, the suspension applies to all licensed gambling operators and spans a wide range of advertising platforms. These include television, radio, newspapers, magazines, outdoor billboards, branded vehicles, social media, SMS, email marketing, influencer campaigns, celebrity endorsements, and push notifications.
“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 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,” the board declared.
Concerns Over Public Welfare and Youth Exposure
A major driver of the decision is the alarming increase in gambling advertisements aired during the watershed period—between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.—when children and teenagers are more likely to be exposed.
“Of particular concern is the rampant airing of gambling advertisements during the watershed period, thereby exposing vulnerable members of the population, particularly minors, who are gradually drawn into gambling-related addiction,” the board noted. It further explained that the range of gambling activities includes betting, lotteries, prize competitions, and all associated promotional events.
Regulatory Actions and Compliance Requirements
During the suspension, all operators are required to comply strictly with the existing legal and regulatory frameworks. The BCLB emphasized that all advertisements must first be reviewed and approved by the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) before being aired. This move is intended to ensure responsible gambling promotion and protect at-risk populations.
“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 statement emphasized.
Government Collaboration to Reinforce Oversight
To ensure the directive is effectively implemented, a multi-agency enforcement team has been established. This team comprises representatives from various government bodies, including the Ministry of Interior, the Office of the Attorney General, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), the Financial Reporting Centre (FRC), and BCLB itself.
Their task is to create policies and recommendations that foster responsible gambling, improve regulatory control, and reduce the risks associated with unregulated gaming practices.
Blocking Unauthorized Foreign Gambling Sites
In a complementary measure, the BCLB has also urged the Communications Authority of Kenya to block and deactivate all unauthorized foreign gambling websites currently accessible in the country. These platforms, often unregulated, pose serious threats to the nation’s efforts in ensuring responsible and lawful gambling.
Call for Stronger Legislation
In addition to administrative measures, the board has called on the National Assembly to expedite the passage of the Gambling Control Bill. This bill is expected to enhance the legal framework surrounding gambling in Kenya and improve oversight over the sector.
“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 said.
Media Guidelines and Public Involvement
Meanwhile, the Media Council of Kenya has been encouraged to complete and enforce new guidelines to bring structure and accountability to gambling-related content across media platforms. These guidelines are expected to ensure that advertising practices align with the values of public safety and ethical broadcasting.
Lastly, the BCLB urged members of the public to play an active role in this campaign. Anyone who witnesses illegal gambling activity is encouraged to report it either to the board or at the nearest police station.
In Other News: ‘Gathering Evidence’ Gachagua Vows to Name Leaders Behind Ang’ata Barikoi Killings & Chaos
BCLB Suspends All Gambling Advertisements for 30 Day Over Addiction
