Kenya’s parliament is considering a Gambling Control Bill that would create a new Gambling Regulatory Authority, CDC Gaming Reports reported November 13.
The authority would replace the existing Betting, Control and Licensing Board (BCLB). It would be responsible for both licensing and regulation.
The bill’s purpose is “to regulate betting, casinos and other forms of gambling, including the authorization of prize competitions, public lotteries and media promotions.”
The bill’s author is National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who wants to enhance the board’s authority following many reports that most gambling operators in the country are ignoring license requirements.
The new bill increases both taxes and penalties and bans registering children for any gambling. It taxes gross gambling revenue at 15 percent. It will limit the size of bets and prohibit broadcasters from carrying gambling ads between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
The new authority will also issue licenses for all charitable lotteries and guarantee that at least 30 percent of proceeds go to charity.
