Online casinos are legal in Kenya under a regulated framework established by the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act of 1966. The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), created under Section 3(1) of this Act, serves as the primary regulatory body responsible for issuing licenses and overseeing all gambling activities in the country (1). Online casino operators must obtain proper licensing from BCLB and comply with stringent requirements including minimum capital deposits and adherence to responsible gambling measures.
Kenya's gambling laws have undergone significant updates in recent years, with the introduction of the Gambling Control Bill 2023 that was passed by the National Assembly in January 2025. This new legislation establishes enhanced regulatory standards and requires online casino operators to maintain higher security deposits, with casinos required to deposit KES 20 million for licensing (2). The updated framework also mandates that at least 30% of shares in gambling entities must be held by Kenyan citizens, demonstrating the government's commitment to local ownership participation.
"The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) was established by Section 3(1) of the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act Cap. 131 – Laws of Kenya of 1966. It is a regulatory body whose mandate is drawn from the Act."
The regulatory environment continues to evolve with stricter advertising controls and enhanced consumer protection measures. Recent developments include comprehensive advertising restrictions and mandatory approval processes for all gambling-related promotions. Online casinos operating in Kenya must also facilitate transactions through Kenyan-registered banks and maintain appropriate insurance bonds to protect player funds. While the industry faces increased regulation, online casinos remain fully legal when operated under proper BCLB licensing and compliance with current laws.
Source:
https://bclb.go.ke/
https://iclg.com/practice-areas/gambling-laws-and-regulations/kenya
Last updated: 18-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
