Kenya’s BCLB suspends all gambling advertisements amid rising addiction concerns

The Betting Control and Licensing Board of Kenya (BCLB) has announced a nationwide suspension of all gambling advertisements across all media platforms, citing a surge in gambling activity and addiction rates.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 29, BCLB chairperson Jane Mwikali confirmed that the suspension will remain in effect for the next 30 days. The directive applies to all licensed gambling operators and covers promotional content broadcast via television, radio, social media, print media, outdoor advertising such as billboards and branded transport, as well as SMS, email campaigns, push notifications, celebrity endorsements, and influencer marketing.

“In view of these occurrences, and pursuant to its statutory mandate under the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act (Chapter 131, Laws of Kenya), the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) hereby ORDERS the immediate suspension of all gambling advertisements and testimonials across all media platforms for a period of thirty (30) days with effect from the date of this statement," the board declared.

The BCLB expressed particular concern over the frequent airing of gambling advertisements during the watershed period between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., warning that such exposure puts vulnerable populations, especially minors, at risk of developing gambling addictions. The ban encompasses all forms of gambling activities, including betting, gaming, lottery prize competitions, and associated promotions.