Big Changes Coming for Gamblers in Kenya as MPs Take Action

Kenya may soon change its gambling laws to protect young people from irresponsible betting. Members of Parliament (MPs) have proposed a new law that would raise the legal age for gambling from 18 to 21 years. They also want to set the minimum betting amount at Ksh50 on all gambling platforms. 

This proposal was brought up during discussions on the Gambling Control Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 70 of 2023). The bill is meant to create stronger rules for gambling, betting, and casinos across the country. 

Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi is one of the loudest voices behind this idea. She says that gambling has become too easy for young people. By increasing the age and bet limit, the government can stop youth from wasting money or becoming addicted. 

Elachi explained that even finding Ksh50 is not easy for many young people. “We are allowing our youth to be destroyed by gambling. We must take this seriously and do what is right,” she said during a Parliament session. 

She also criticized how powerful betting companies seem to shape laws in their favor. Elachi warned that without stronger controls, the future of Kenya’s youth is at risk. 

Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah also supported the bill. He stressed that gambling itself is not evil, but it must be done responsibly. He said, “It is okay to bet once in a while, but not every day. It should not become a lifestyle.” 

Ichung’wah also blamed the media for promoting betting during hours when children and youth are watching or listening. “You can find gambling ads on TV and radio as early as 5am. This must stop,” he said. 

The MPs believe that tighter rules will bring discipline into the gambling sector. They want to prevent betting companies from targeting poor or young Kenyans who may not fully understand the risks. 

The proposed changes include serious penalties for any betting company that allows people under the age of 21 to participate. If the law is passed, these companies could face heavy fines or even lose their licenses. 

The push for change comes shortly after the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) made similar proposals. The BCLB wants to introduce stricter measures for gamblers and betting companies. 

According to Peter Mbugi, Director of BCLB, gamblers will have to take a selfie while holding their national ID before registering on any betting site. This step is meant to confirm their identity and age. 

The BCLB also wants betting shops to prove they are serious businesses. Small betting shops will need to show a minimum capital of Ksh50 million to be allowed to operate. 

Casinos and public gaming operators will face even bigger demands. The BCLB proposes they must show a capital of Ksh5 billion. These rules are meant to reduce the number of casual or fake operators in the gambling industry. 

Mbugi says these changes will create a safer environment for everyone. “We are not against gambling. But we must make sure it is done in a responsible and controlled way,” he explained. 

Some Kenyans agree with the proposals. Many parents and teachers have seen how gambling affects students. They say students skip school or steal money just to bet. 

Others, especially betting companies, may not be happy. They argue that such strict rules will reduce their business. But MPs say the safety of young people is more important than profits. 

Gambling addiction has been a growing problem in Kenya. With betting apps and SMS-based gambling, it has become easy for anyone to place bets at any time. 

This has led to stories of young people losing their school fees or entire salaries. In some extreme cases, people have even taken their own lives after losing too much money. 

The government now wants to act before things get worse. By raising the age limit and setting a Ksh50 minimum bet, they hope to create a barrier that protects young and poor Kenyans. 

The new Gambling Control Bill is still under discussion. But if it passes, it will be a big win for responsible gambling. 

Kenya will join countries like the United States, where many states only allow people aged 21 and above to gamble. 

As Parliament continues to debate, citizens are being urged to share their views. Public participation will play a big role in shaping the final version of the law. 

The goal is to find a balance, allowing responsible adults to gamble while protecting the vulnerable.