Kenya targets illegal gambling: 58 betting firms lose paybill acces

President William Ruto has directed Safaricom PLC, Kenya’s leading telecommunications provider, to immediately suspend paybill numbers linked to 58 unlicensed betting companies. According to The Kenya Times, this move follows an order from the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), which cited public outcry over unauthorized gambling platforms exploiting users.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 29, the BCLB, operating under the Executive Office of the President, revealed that the flagged websites had been operating without approval and scamming bettors by withholding payouts despite accepting deposits.

"The Board has determined that necessary measures must be taken against the listed websites, including their immediate shutdown," read part of the statement. "Additionally, Safaricom PLC is hereby instructed to suspend all associated Pay Bill numbers with immediate effect."

Among the affected firms are Maybet, Aviator, Pesa Crash, Pawa Crash, Cheza Crash, and Vuma Bet, all accused of violating gaming regulations. Investigations revealed that these platforms used Safaricom’s paybill and STK push services to collect deposits fraudulently.

The BCLB also announced a 30-day suspension of all gambling advertisements across media platforms, effective April 29, 2025. The Board condemned the misleading portrayal of betting as a quick wealth-creation scheme, warning of its harmful socioeconomic impact, particularly on minors.

“This directive applies to all licensed gambling operators and covers all forms of advertisement and promotional activity,” the BCLB stated.

The crackdown comes amid rising concerns over gambling addiction and financial scams linked to unregulated betting firms. Safaricom has yet to issue a public statement regarding the suspension.