Kenya Opens First Gambling Licensing Process Under New Regulatory Framework

New Gambling Control Act introduces stricter industry supervision

The licensing process begins following the implementation of the Gambling Control Act, 2025, and five new regulations published in the Kenya Gazette on June 30, which entered into force on July 1.

The new framework replaces significant parts of the previous regulatory system and gives the GRA broader authority to monitor and control gambling activities across Kenya.

According to the regulator, the updated rules aim to establish a more transparent and structured environment for operators while strengthening consumer protection and promoting responsible gambling practices.

The GRA highlighted that the new licensing system will provide clearer requirements for businesses operating in the sector and support the development of a fair and sustainable gambling market.

Online gambling operators face new compliance obligations

One of the main changes introduced by Kenya’s new gambling regulations affects online operators, which will now face stricter technological and operational requirements.

Licensed companies must provide the GRA with real-time access to their platforms through secure API connections. In addition, operators will be required to integrate their systems with the Authority’s Central Monitoring System and the National Gambling Register.

The new rules also establish mandatory measures related to:

• Licensing procedures
• Gambling operations
• Foreign operators
• Advertising standards
• Player protection mechanisms

Online gambling companies must implement geolocation controls, ensure customer data protection and maintain a clear separation between player funds and operational accounts.

The requirement to segregate customer funds is designed to provide additional safeguards for players in case of financial difficulties or operational issues affecting operators.

Expanded licensing requirements for suppliers and industry stakeholders

The new regulatory framework extends beyond traditional gambling businesses such as casinos and betting operators.

Licensing obligations will now also apply to:

• Lottery operators
• Gambling software providers
• Equipment manufacturers
• Key industry personnel
• Suppliers and service providers working with gambling companies

Under the new rules, suppliers must obtain approval before providing services to licensed gambling operators. Existing operators are also required to inform their suppliers about the updated regulatory obligations.

Companies currently active in the market must submit a complete list of their suppliers to the GRA within seven days, allowing the regulator to gain greater visibility over the entire gambling ecosystem.

The framework also introduces separate licences for different online gambling verticals, including:

• Online bookmakers: KES 50 million licence fee
• Online casinos: KES 50 million licence fee
• Online lotteries: KES 20 million licence fee

Foreign gambling companies must meet additional requirements

International gambling operators seeking to enter the Kenyan market will face additional financial and operational conditions under the new system.

Foreign companies must demonstrate a minimum paid-up capital of KES 100 million and provide a security bond of KES 200 million.

They will also be required to comply with gambling regulations in their home jurisdictions and implement mechanisms to prevent users located in Kenya from accessing services when such access is restricted.

These measures are part of Kenya’s broader strategy to ensure that international operators meet local regulatory standards before participating in the country’s gambling market.

Stronger player protection measures introduced

Player protection represents another key pillar of the new regulatory framework.

Operators must implement age verification procedures, provide responsible gambling tools and participate in Kenya’s national self-exclusion system.

Existing licences will remain valid for a transitional period of 60 days, allowing operators time to adapt their operations and comply with the new requirements.

The GRA stated that the new licensing process has been designed to be accessible for operators while creating a stronger regulatory environment focused on accountability, consumer protection and sustainable growth of Kenya’s gambling industry.