By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, 4 June 2026 - The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has called for a coordinated approach between the government, parents, and private sector players in the gambling industry to protect children from exposure to irresponsible gaming and betting content.
Speaking at the Gaming Tech Summit Africa on Thursday, KFCB CEO Nelly Muluka said that it is high time for companies in the gaming sector to prioritise between business interests and consumer protection in their adverts.
According to Muluka, this will be fundamental in ensuring that children and other vulnerable groups are shielded from gaming and gambling platforms through advertising.
“Ms. Muluka acknowledged the importance of the gaming sector and the opportunities it presents, but called for collective responsibility and balance in advertising practices in line with the law,” a statement from KFCB stated.
“She further stated that gaming advertising falls within the Board’s regulatory mandate, emphasizing that the Board reviews and classifies all advertisements to ensure they are age-appropriate,” it added.
On the other hand, the CEO has urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and ensure that they monitor the content that children access on the internet, including gaming and gambling.
The statement comes at a time when concerns are growing over the rise of irresponsible gaming and gambling in the country, particularly among young people who are increasingly exposed to betting platforms across digital platforms and informal outlets.
Stakeholders have repeatedly warned that if it remains unchecked, the spread of irresponsible gambling will continue contributing to cases of addiction, financial strain among households, and declining academic performance among affected youths.
In recent years, Kenya has intensified efforts to curb irresponsible gambling and gaming through stricter regulation, enforcement of advertising standards, and public awareness campaigns targeting both parents and children.
In August 2025, President William Ruto assented to the Gambling Control Bill 2023, which saw the introduction of enhanced regulation of the gambling sector, including raising the minimum amount an individual can bet on an online site.
According to the bill, the minimum amount that one can place a bet on any gambling site is set at KSh 20. Any gambling operator who is found allowing gambling activities for an amount less than Ksh20 shall be liable to a fine of not less than Ksh5 million or imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years.
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