Kenya’s newly established Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) is moving quickly to reshape the country’s gambling sector. It is unveiling plans for stricter licensing rules, enhanced monitoring systems, and a possible national lottery. The authority officially replaced the Betting Control and Licensing Board in late February. Now it is preparing a tougher regulatory framework ahead of a major licensing window set to close in June 2026.
Stricter Licensing and Enhanced Surveillance
The GRA is developing a new licensing and compliance structure aimed at strengthening oversight across both online and land-based gambling. Director General Peter Karimi told a parliamentary committee that the authority intends to hire nearly 200 staff. In addition, it will deploy surveillance systems capable of tracking betting transactions throughout the industry.
Karimi warned that online gambling operations and casinos can be vulnerable to criminal misuse. He stated that many platforms remain “attractive targets for illicit activities.” The regulator’s strategy includes stronger monitoring tools designed to improve transparency, enforcement, and regulatory control. These steps come as operators prepare for the upcoming licensing deadline.
Regulator Seeks Greater Role in Revenue Oversight
Alongside licensing reforms, the authority is seeking a stronger role in managing gambling-related revenues currently handled by the Kenya Revenue Authority. Karimi said the new structure is intended to give regulators a more direct hand in financial oversight. This would support stronger enforcement and improve accountability across the market.
Lawmakers have also suggested allowing the GRA to retain a portion of the funds it collects. This move could help finance enforcement activities and accelerate the deployment of new monitoring systems.
National Lottery Proposal Gains Momentum
The GRA is also exploring the launch of a national lottery, which would significantly expand its role beyond licensing. Karimi said a lottery could become a major long-term revenue generator. For example, he cited global examples where national lotteries contribute up to two percent of GDP.
“We are looking at the Kenyan lottery generating revenue that can be a financial enabler for the country and support economic and social transformation,” Karimi said.
The proposal would involve selecting a lottery operator through a competitive process. In addition, the government is likely seeking international advisory support to guide the implementation and ensure transparency in the setup.
June 2026 Deadline Drives Urgency
With the June 2026 licensing window approaching, the authority is accelerating preparations to ensure operators comply with new regulatory requirements. If implemented, the updated framework would introduce stricter rules and technology-driven monitoring aimed at improving consumer protection. Furthermore, it would strengthen enforcement and ensure the sector operates under clearer national supervision.
