- BCLB has blacklisted over 50 betting platforms operating without licenses.
- Safaricom has been directed to suspend related Paybill numbers.
- Many users have complained of scams where they deposit money but don’t get paid.
- All gambling ads across media are banned for 30 days starting April 29, 2025.
- BCLB says gambling is being wrongly promoted as a quick way to get rich.
The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), under the Executive Office of the President, has announced firm action against illegal betting websites operating in Kenya. On Tuesday, April 29, the board released a statement confirming that these online platforms have been deceiving Kenyans through unlicensed betting activities.
In response to rising complaints from the public, the BCLB has ordered Safaricom PLC to immediately disable Paybill numbers and STK Push services associated with 58 betting sites. These platforms, such as Pesa Crash, Pawa Crash, Cheza Crash, Vuma Bet, and others, were found collecting money from users and failing to release winnings, effectively scamming their customers.
“The Board has determined that necessary steps must be taken against these platforms, including their shutdown,” read part of the official statement.
BCLB also confirmed that these companies are operating against Kenyan gaming laws, further justifying their immediate closure. The crackdown targets both the websites and their payment channels to prevent further exploitation.
Gambling Ads Also Hit by 30-Day Ban Across All Media
In a separate and equally stern move, the BCLB has also halted all gambling-related advertisements and promotional messages across TV, radio, digital platforms, and print media for 30 days, effective April 29.
The board raised alarm over how gambling is now being promoted as a smart way to make money, calling it misleading and harmful, especially to vulnerable groups like youths and minors. Many ads are being aired during prohibited hours, which BCLB says is slowly pulling more people into addictive behaviours.
“This form of misrepresentation has major negative effects on individuals, families, and even society at large,” the statement noted.
The ban includes all gambling activities like lotteries, betting, and promotional gaming, and targets even licensed operators. BCLB says this decision was necessary to protect the public and reduce harmful influence during prime viewing hours (5:00 am to 10:00 pm).
BCLB’s bold actions are seen as a turning point in tightening control over Kenya’s betting industry, which has grown rapidly but often operates in legal grey areas. Whether the 30-day freeze and site bans will bring lasting change is something to watch in the coming weeks.
