The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has imposed an immediate 30-day suspension on all gambling-related advertisements across all media platforms in Kenya.

The move, announced by BCLB Chairperson Jane Mwikali Makau, comes amid mounting concern over the widespread exposure of minors and vulnerable groups to betting and gambling promotions.

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“The government has noted with grave concern the proliferation of gambling activities across the country,” Mwikali said in a statement issued on Monday. “Some gambling promoters are increasingly mischaracterising gambling as a legitimate investment opportunity and a shortcut to wealth creation.”

The suspension affects betting, gaming, lottery prize competitions, and all related promotional activities. Mwikali warned that the aggressive marketing of gambling especially during the protected watershed hours of 5:00 am to 10:00 pm is contributing to rising cases of gambling addiction, especially among the youth.

The directive applies to all licensed gambling operators and covers a broad range of advertising and promotional formats, including Television and radio commercials, social media and influencer marketing, print ads in newspapers, magazines, and flyers as well as outdoor billboards and branded vehicles 

During the suspension period, all gambling-related adverts must be submitted to the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) for classification and approval. Operators will also be required to obtain filming licenses before running any new ads.

“All licensed gambling operators and promoters must comply with the applicable legislative and regulatory frameworks governing gambling and related advertising in Kenya,” said Mwikali.

She added that operators must adopt comprehensive measures to promote responsible gambling and adhere strictly to the conditions of their licenses.

The ban follows growing pressure from civil society, religious leaders, educators, and parents who have raised the alarm over the normalization of gambling among young people. Kenya has one of the highest rates of youth participation in betting in sub-Saharan Africa.

The BCLB warned that it will be monitoring compliance closely and hinted at the possibility of further regulatory actions if violations continue.