Kenyan Legislative Leader Endorses Gambling Control Bill, Citing Youth At Risk
In the heart of Kenya's National Assembly, the discussion surrounding the Gambling Control Bill is gaining momentum. This proposed legislation, aimed at addressing the growing concern over the social impacts of the gambling industry, is a vital step towards safeguarding the future of Kenya's young generation, according to Kimani Ichung'wah, the Leader of the Majority.
Ichung'wah has expressed concern over the unchecked growth of the gambling industry in Kenya and voiced strong support for the bill. He reiterated the urgent need to regulate the betting industry to protect the youth, emphasizing the potential of the gambling industry to destroy the hopes and futures of young Kenyans.
The bill proposes several key changes, including raising the legal gambling age from 18 to 21 years and establishing a new Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya. This new authority is expected to replace the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) and ensure stricter regulatory oversight.
One of the most significant changes is a drastic increase in the security deposit for gambling operators from KES 250,000 to KES 100 million. This measure is intended to protect bettors' deposits and guarantee that operators can honor payouts, thereby reducing risks to consumers. However, industry insiders warn that this high fee could force smaller operators out of the formal market, potentially pushing some gambling activity underground.
The bill also includes provisions for enhanced monitoring of payment flows, enforcement of advertising restrictions near schools and religious centers, and audits of licensed firms. These measures target addressing the rising concern of gambling addiction, particularly among young people, as public outcry has increased due to reports that Kenyans wagered over KES 30 billion in just one month.
By raising the legal gambling age and introducing stricter licensing and regulatory controls, the bill aims to shield youth from early exposure to gambling and the associated risks. If passed, these laws and regulations could be implemented as early as 2026, setting a new standard for gambling regulation in Kenya and potentially serving as a model for other African countries facing similar challenges.
The article, published by K24 and authored by Aloys Michael, continues to discuss the need for regulation of the gambling industry in Kenya to protect young Kenyans from its negative social impacts. As the debate continues, it is clear that the Gambling Control Bill is more than just legislation; it is a commitment to ensuring a brighter, safer future for Kenya's youth.
The discussion in Kenya's National Assembly surrounding the Gambling Control Bill highlights the intersection of politics, policy-and-legislation, and general-news, as lawmakers work towards better regulations to protect the youth from gambling-related issues. Kimani Ichung'wah, the Leader of the Majority, has advocated for responsible-gambling policies, expressing concerns over the industry's impact on the youth and urging stricter controls on casino-and-gambling operations.
