Regulatory Framework for Online Gambling in Kenya
Kenya is one of the largest gambling markets in Afrca. The online gambling market is lucrative and is projected to grow by 6.25% betwwen 2024 and 2028. Its revenue in the online gambling market is expected to reach almost $100 million in 2024.
Early gambling Law in Kenya
The origins of gambling laws in Kenya can be traced back to 1966. The Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act set the framework for all casino and gambling practices in the African country. It was put in place with the goal to control and regulate any form of betting, lotteries, or gaming establishments.
After this Act was put in place in Kenya, the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB, the regulatory body that has the mandate to regulate the gambling industry in the country, was born. This body is also responsible for the issuance and renewal of all licenses for betting companies throughout Kenya, ensuring these companies are complying with the provisions of the 1966 Act.
Since the Betting, Lotteries, and Gaming Act was created, the gambling industry has made many strides in Kenya. It started off with land-based betting establishments and casinos, but it wasn’t until the 2000s that we started to see more of these popping up online. With the increased availability of the internet due to remote work, more users are starting to use online casinos on their PCs or smartphones.
Current Regulatory framework
In Kenya today, if an organisation wants to offer gambling services legally, they need to apply for a license through the BCLB.
There are different types of licenses available, including Public Gaming, Bookmakers, and Public Lottery. For each application, the company must pay a range of fees based on whether they are a local or foreign applicant. For example, if you want to apply for a Public Gaming license and you’re a local applicant, you’ll need to pay a total of 4,750,000 Kenyan Shillings, but if you’re foreign, you must pay 5,500,000 Kenyan Shillings.
Online Casinos in Kenya
The Online Casino is also steadily growing in the country with a huge revenue volume projection. If you wish to start an online casino that caters to customers in Kenya, the interested party must first apply for a Public Gaming license from the BCLB.
Requirements Needed for a Public Gaming license for online casinos:
- The applicant will obtain a form from the BCLB which must be duly completed and submitted.
- A detailed business proposal that states the company’s concept (i.e., online casino with a focus on slot machines) must be submitted.
- Payment of application fee of 1,000,000 Kenyan Shillings, regardless of whether you’re a local or foreign applicant. Also license grant fee, premises grant, annual operating fee, annual fee, and investigation fee must also be paid.
- Provision of a wide range of other pieces of information and forms such as your business name, form of business, names of directors and shareholders, a PIN and tax compliance certificate, certificate of Good Conduct, and memorandum.
- Submit a statement declaring the benefits of the business for players, the Kenyan public, the Kenyan government, and the directors and shareholders.
- Submit a proposal on how to reduce the effects of gambling addiction on underage players.
- Go through the dispute resolution procedure
- Demonstrate the ability to pay the rest of the fees for your application.
There might be different requirements based on your specific type of business, so ensure you talk to someone from the BCLB and receive professional business help before filing your license application.
Compliance with local laws
Once the gambling licenses has been obtained from the BCLB, the interested organisation must ensure that they’re adhering strictly to local extant laws at all times.
You can ensure you’re staying compliant as a casino Kenya online site by putting in place a wide range of anti-money laundering measures to keep everything in line with the law. You should also have player protection policies as well as follow the country’s data protection and privacy laws.
Failure to comply with these laws can lead to penalties and fines, or you could potentially have your license revoked.
Conclusion
Kenya’s online gambling market has witnessed steady growth driven by technological advancements. Its market is known to be well regulated with strategic taxation rules and a great focus on consumer protection.
If you’re a potential business owner planning to start an online casino in the country, you must ensure you follow the proper licensing procedures. As a player, you should also look for the BCLB stamp of approval before signing up for an account.
Source: allnigeriasoccer.com
