As the Kenyan National Assembly proposes raising the legal gambling age from 18 to 21, it has sparked intense opposition locally. People in various places have held rallies protesting the amendment plan, emphasizing that "adults should have the freedom to decide whether to participate in gambling."
This proposal comes from the revision draft of the "Gambling Control Bill" (2023 National Assembly Bill No. 70). According to the new draft, individuals under 21 will no longer be allowed to participate in sports betting, lotteries, or other online gambling activities. Additionally, the parliament is also discussing setting a minimum betting amount of 50 Kenyan shillings (about $0.39) to limit the frequent betting behavior of teenagers.
Beatrice Elachi, the MP for Dagoretti North, pointed out in the parliamentary debate: "We do not encourage young people to gamble, as even earning 50 shillings is not easy." She criticized some gambling industry forces for "controlling the agenda" and ignoring the healthy growth of the youth.
However, many people do not buy this argument. At the Gikomba market in Machakos, a vendor told iGB: "If you can join the army and vote at 18, then you should also be allowed to bet. It's the freedom of an adult."
Meanwhile, the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) announced on July 29 the list of 99 iGaming operators granted market licenses for the fiscal year 2025/26. This includes major brands such as Betika, Odibets, Betpawa, Flamingobets, Kwikbet, My Lotto/Tatuatatu, etc.
The BCLB stated that the list aims to maintain market order and responsible gambling standards. Dr. Jane Makau, the chairperson of the committee, emphasized in the document: "Following the official notice issued by the board on June 30, 2025, the companies on the list have been authorized to continue operating legally after the extension period expires."
Regulatory reforms are still brewing, and the BCLB is studying measures including raising operator licensing fees and improving advertising restrictions to further regulate the development of the gambling industry.
