Kenya Launches Digital Gambling Monitoring System

GRA Digitizes Licensing and Real-Time Gambling Oversight

The Gambling Regulatory Authority officially presented its new Gambling Management System to Kenya's Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, as part of the country's ongoing regulatory reforms.

The digital platform will allow all gambling licence applications and renewals to be submitted and processed online while giving regulators the ability to monitor licensed operators in real time.

According to Koskei, the technology will significantly strengthen the regulator's supervisory capabilities.

"Once operational, all licence applications and renewals will be processed online, while the system will enable real-time monitoring of licensed gambling activities, strengthen regulatory compliance, improve accountability and support more effective enforcement."

The system is one of the key initiatives introduced under the Gambling Control Act, 2025, legislation that replaces the former Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) with the newly established Gambling Regulatory Authority.

New Gambling Law Strengthens Consumer Protection

Mandatory Age Verification and Self-Exclusion

Beyond digital supervision, the Gambling Control Act introduces several responsible gambling measures aimed at increasing player protection.

Among the most significant changes is mandatory age verification using a National Identity Card or passport, ensuring that only individuals aged 18 years and above can legally participate in gambling activities.

The legislation also creates a self-exclusion program, allowing players who believe they are developing gambling-related problems to voluntarily block themselves from accessing licensed gambling services.

In addition, operators will be required to maintain ring-fenced player accounts to protect customer funds, while gaming equipment must undergo certification procedures to guarantee fairness and operational integrity.

Stricter Gambling Advertising Rules

The new regulatory framework also tightens advertising standards across Kenya's gambling sector.

The reforms include a daytime broadcast watershed for gambling advertisements as well as mandatory responsible gambling messaging in all promotional materials, reinforcing the country's efforts to reduce gambling-related harm.

Government Highlights Transparency and Regulatory Compliance

Koskei said the reforms demonstrate the government's commitment to building a gambling market that combines technological innovation with stronger regulatory oversight.

"They briefed me on the reforms being implemented under the new law to promote responsible gambling, strengthen compliance and enhance oversight of the sector."

He also praised the Gambling Regulatory Authority for adopting digital technology to improve supervision and enforcement.

"I commend the Authority for these reforms and reaffirm the Government's commitment to a gambling sector that is transparent, responsible, well-regulated and operated in the public interest."

The meeting was attended by GRA Chairman Joseph Limo and Chief Executive Officer Peter Maina Karimi.

Kenya Expands Oversight as Gambling Market Grows

The launch of the Gambling Management System comes as Kenya seeks to strengthen oversight of one of its fastest-growing industries amid increasing concerns over gambling participation, particularly among younger consumers.

With real-time monitoring, digital licensing, enhanced compliance tools, and stronger responsible gambling provisions, the Gambling Control Act, 2025, marks a significant modernization of Kenya's regulatory framework for the licensed gambling sector.