The National Assembly has given the green light to a government-backed law that introduces strict rules to control gambling, targeting addiction, underage betting and misleading advertisements.

Both the National Assembly and the Senate have approved a revised version of the Gambling Control Bill, 2023, tightening its provisions to address growing concerns over the spread of betting across the country.

The law proposes a wide range of penalties, new advertising rules, and stronger protections for children and vulnerable gamblers.

The Bill sets out tough measures for gamblers, betting operators and media platforms that run gambling advertisements. It proposes fines of up to Sh20 million and jail terms of up to 20 years for those who breach the law.

“A gambling advertisement shall indicate the addictive nature of gambling, notify players to play responsibly, and prohibit children from playing,” reads part of the Bill.

The law introduces strong restrictions on advertising, including a ban on using celebrities and public vehicles to promote gambling.

Television and radio ads will be prohibited between 6 am and 10 pm, except during live sports broadcasts. Billboard advertisements are also banned near learning institutions.

The Bill further outlaws any messaging that encourages people to see gambling as a reliable way to earn income. Operators and media outlets that breach the new advertising guidelines risk serious consequences, including steep fines and imprisonment.

The proposed law also requires that 20 per cent of all gambling-related advertisements promote responsible gambling. This is meant to raise public awareness about the risks associated with betting and help reduce addiction.

In addition, the Sports Cabinet Secretary will be given powers to decide which types of licensed gambling activities can be advertised. The CS will also have authority to control the content that appears in gambling ads.

Once enacted, the law will mark a major shift in how betting is regulated in the country, especially by focusing on protecting minors, regulating promotional content and punishing illegal gambling activities.