Kenya to introduce amendments to Gaming Control Bill

The Kenyan Parliament is set to consider significant amendments to the Gambling Control Bill (National Assembly Bills No. 70 of 2023), aimed at enhancing regulation within the gaming sector.  The proposed changes, announced on October 1, 2024, during the Third Session of the Thirteenth Parliament include various adjustments to existing clauses and the introduction of new provisions.

Among the key amendments, Clause 123 will see modifications to the Excise Duty Act and the Income Tax Act, eliminating certain paragraphs that currently govern gambling taxation. Additionally, Clause 5 will be updated to empower counties to develop their own legislation on betting and other gambling activities, as well as to license prize competitions and amusement machines.

The amendments also propose changes to Clause 7, which outlines the composition of the regulatory board. This includes appointing three non-public officers with backgrounds in finance, law, and business management, ensuring representation for persons with disabilities, youth, and faith-based organizations.

Further adjustments include a new clause that specifies operating hours for licensed betting premises, restricting them to between 10 PM and 5 AM. The bill also aims to clarify online gambling transactions, defining their commencement and conclusion based on player account activities.

Senators from various counties have expressed intentions to introduce additional amendments focused on compliance and monitoring systems in collaboration with the Kenya Revenue Authority. These proposed changes reflect a broader effort by the Kenyan government to regulate the rapidly growing gambling sector while addressing concerns about responsible gaming practices.

The Gambling Control Bill is part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance oversight in Kenya's gaming landscape, which has seen increased participation and technological advancements in recent years.