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Who Ordered The Gambling Ad Ban
Kenya’s Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) stopped all gambling ads for 30 days starting April 29, 2025. Board chair Jane Mwikali Makau announced the decision in a statement posted on X.
The ban hits every licensed gambling operator in the country. No more ads on TV, radio, social media, newspapers, billboards, or text messages. Even celebrity endorsements are off-limits.
Companies won’t be able to advertise again until they follow responsible gambling rules.
Why Kenya Cracked Down On Betting Promotions
The BCLB found too many gambling ads running between 5am and 10pm when kids might see them. This breaks watershed rules that are meant to protect young viewers.
These ads could lure vulnerable people (especially those under 18) into gambling problems. The board called the issue “rampant” in their statement.
Misleading marketing tactics by betting companies also triggered the ban. So regulators want to stop false promises that hook new gamblers.
What Happens During The Ad Freeze
Betting companies must now send their planned ads to the Kenya Film Classification Board for approval. This agency, which normally rates movies, will check all gambling promotions.
Operators must prove they follow all gambling laws. The ban stays for a full month or until companies shape up.
A recent survey shows Kenya’s gambling rates have dropped below South Africa and Uganda. But officials still see a serious problem.
How This Impacts The Gaming Industry
A new multi-agency team will develop long-term solutions. This group includes officials from several government bodies like the Ministry of Interior and Kenya Revenue Authority.
This isn’t Kenya’s first tough stance on gambling. In 2022, the BCLB told operators to shut down during presidential elections, an instruction that many operators ignored.
So companies now face a month of lost ad revenue and tighter rules when promotions return. And the film board’s new role creates another hurdle for marketing teams.
