Government Denies Ksh766 Billion Gambling Report, Says Figures Include Unlicensed Platforms
NAIROBI, Kenya
The Kenyan government, through the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), has dismissed claims that Kenyans spent Ksh766 billion on gambling in 2024. In a statement issued on Sunday, BCLB Chairperson Jane Mwikali Makau labeled the figure as grossly overstated, suggesting it includes transactions from unregulated offshore betting platforms.
The staggering figure—equating to nearly 31% of Kenya’s total national revenue—was recently published in a series of local media reports, sparking concern over the social and economic implications of gambling in the country.
“The figure inaccurately inflates the size of Kenya’s regulated betting market,” said Makau. “It misleads both the public and policymakers by including data from offshore sites not licensed in Kenya.”
Official Revenue from Gambling Significantly Lower
According to BCLB, actual tax revenue from the sector in the 2023/2024 financial year stood at Ksh22.3 billion. This figure includes excise duty on stakes, gaming taxes, and withholding tax on winnings from licensed operators.
Makau emphasized that while gambling remains a significant source of government revenue, the industry is under firm regulatory control, and claims of runaway betting behavior should be placed in proper context.
“These exaggerated reports paint an alarming yet misleading picture,” she noted.
Betting Industry’s Economic Role and Employment
Defending the industry, BCLB highlighted the positive economic footprint of the legal gambling sector in Kenya. The industry directly employs over 10,000 people and indirectly supports more than 500,000 livelihoods, spanning roles in tech, advertising, and retail.
Additionally, licensed betting firms contribute to numerous community development projects through their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.
Future Oversight Under the Gambling Control Bill 2023
The BCLB also pointed to the Gambling Control Bill, 2023, currently under legislative review, as a key step toward tightening regulation and improving transparency in the sector. The Bill proposes stronger licensing, data reporting requirements, and enhanced consumer protection measures.
Looking ahead, the board projects that Kenya’s regulated betting sector will generate Ksh20 billion in tax revenue in 2025, indicating continued but controlled growth.
“These projections reflect a well-regulated and sustainable model that supports economic growth without encouraging unchecked gambling,” Makau stated.
The clarification by BCLB aims to calm public concern and refocus the national conversation on balanced regulation, factual data, and the importance of eliminating illegal betting platforms that distort the economic picture.
