The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya has recently concluded public participation on the Draft Gambling Control Regulations of 2026. This follows the accent of the Kenya Gambling Control Act, 2025.
The Kenya Gambling Control Act, 2025, marked a major regulatory reset for the gaming industry, and operators, investors, and service providers need to pay close attention.
Here are the key stipulations in the Act that will shape the future of gaming in Kenya:
1. A New Powerful Regulator The Act establishes the Gambling Regulatory Authority with expanded oversight, licensing, enforcement, AML supervision, and real-time monitoring of operators.
Implications: Expect tighter scrutiny and data-driven compliance.
2. Mandatory Local Ownership: Operators must now have at least 30% Kenyan shareholding.
Implications: This fundamentally affects market entry strategies, partnerships, and structuring.
3. End-to-End Licensing Framework Licensing now extends beyond operators to include the following:
• Platforms & software providers
• Gaming equipment suppliers
• Key personnel
Implications: The ecosystem, not just operators, is now regulated.
4. Online Gambling Gets Serious Oversight. There are dedicated provisions on:
• Player registration & account controls
• Restrictions on credit & inducements
• Transaction monitoring & reporting.
Implications: Digital operators must rethink compliance architecture.
5. Real-Time Monitoring & Tax Alignment The Authority will implement a central electronic monitoring system and collaborate with KRA on tax compliance.
Implications: Revenue transparency is no longer optional.
6. Stronger Consumer Protection Measures. Focus areas include:
• Responsible gambling
• Protection of minors
• Self-exclusion mechanisms
Implications: Player protection is now a regulatory priority, not PR tools.
7. Restrictions on Foreign Operators The Act introduces limitations on foreign companies in online gambling.
Implications: Cross-border models will need to be restructured.
8. A dual-layer system: National Authority + County Governments
· National Authority is the Primary Regulator
· Local: Confined Activities Only
Implications: Plan for dual licensing costs, national and county. Even a small operation needs both.
9. Increased Compliance Requirements
• Audited accounts
• Security bonds/guarantees
• Minimum capital thresholds
Implications: The Cost of Compliance rises
10. The Establishment of Gambling Appeals Tribunal
Operators and stakeholders can appeal decisions such as:
• Refusal to grant or renew a licence
• Suspension or revocation of a licence
·• Rejection of applications (including platform, testing, or service licenses)
• Regulatory penalties or enforcement actions
Implications: Accountability on the part of the regulator, but also higher compliance and legal preparedness requirements
11. Advertising & Promotion Controls: Stricter regulation of gambling advertising is introduced.
Implications: Marketing strategies must align with responsible gaming principles.
12. Transition from the Old Regime The Act repeals the previous law and introduces transitional provisions for existing license holders.
Implications: All licenses need to be applied for as a new application
Summary
The Gambling Control Act, 2025, is already in force and applicable to operators and service providers. Accordingly, stakeholders are advised to undertake early compliance and preparedness measures, notwithstanding that the Gambling Control Regulations are yet to be finalized.
Also Read: Gambling Compliance and Growth Strategies By: David Moshi
