Kenya locals dismiss increased gambling age limit, BCLB unveils updated operators list
Summary
Members of Kenya’s National Assembly have proposed raising the legal gambling age from 18 to 21 and introducing a minimum bet of Ksh50, citing youth protection. The proposals were discussed on 30 July as part of deliberations on the Gambling Control Bill (National Assembly Bill No 70 of 2023). Locals and bettors criticised the move, arguing 18-year-olds are adults with the right to vote and serve in the military and should decide whether to gamble.
Separately, the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) published an official list (29 July) of 99 approved iGaming operators for the 2025–26 financial year, including Betika, Odibets, Betpawa, Flamingobets, Kwikbet and My Lotto/Tatuatatu. The regulator continues to push responsible gambling measures and is preparing further regulatory changes, including higher licence fees and enforcement following a recent ad ban.
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Key Points
- • MPs proposed raising the legal gambling age to 21 and setting a minimum bet of Ksh50 to curb youth gambling.
- • Current Gambling Control Bill sets minimum age at 18; the change would criminalise wagers by 18–20-year-olds if enacted.
- • Local reactions are largely negative, citing inconsistencies with other adult responsibilities such as voting and military service.
- • BCLB released a list of 99 licensed operators for 2025–26, confirming major brands can continue operating.
- • The regulator is pressing ahead with responsible gambling measures and a wider regulatory shake‑up, including licence fee increases and ad restrictions.
- • The bill’s fate is uncertain but the National Assembly remains committed to pursuing the changes.
Why should I read this?
Want the quick gist? MPs want to lift the gambling age and cap small bets — locals think it’s overreach. Meanwhile, the regulator has published who’s allowed to operate next year. If you work in gaming in Kenya or follow African regulation, this affects market access, compliance and player protection — and it’s worth keeping an eye on.
Context and relevance
The proposed age increase intersects with ongoing moves by Kenyan authorities to tighten gambling rules after an advertising ban. For operators, the changes threaten customer base, compliance obligations and potential sanctions for non‑compliance. For policymakers and public‑health stakeholders, the debate highlights tensions between protecting young people and preserving adult freedoms. The BCLB’s operator list signals continuity in the market but also signals tougher oversight ahead.