Kenya Plans International Lottery Operator Tender Ahead of 2027 Launch

Kenya's National Lottery Board is preparing an international tender to select the country's first national lottery operator, targeting the launch of a fully operational system by the end of 2027.

Kenya is moving forward with plans to establish its first national lottery, with authorities preparing to invite international companies to compete for the contract to operate the new system.

National Lottery Board chairperson Farida Karoney confirmed in late October 2026 that the board expects to launch the international tender before the end of the year.

The selected operator will be responsible for establishing the necessary infrastructure, deploying technology, recruiting staff and preparing the lottery for commercial operations.

The government aims to have the system operational by the end of 2027, although the launch timetable remains dependent on procurement and implementation.

The proposed lottery will combine traditional physical ticket sales with digital participation, creating multiple distribution channels across Kenya.

Proceeds are expected to support public-benefit initiatives, including education, scientific research, sports development and community programmes.

To prepare the procurement process, the National Lottery Board appointed a transaction-advisory consortium in August 2026. The partnership includes RSM Eastern Africa and Sweden-based QLOT Consulting.

The advisers are assisting with tender documentation, commercial structuring, contract preparation and the selection process for the future operator.

The project operates under the National Lottery Act, which came into effect in December 2023 and established the legal framework for developing a national lottery.

The planned tender could create opportunities for international lottery operators, payment service providers, technology companies and distribution partners.

However, no operator has yet been selected, and the detailed commercial requirements have not been published. The next major milestone will be the formal tender announcement, which should clarify investment expectations, licensing conditions and implementation responsibilities.