{"id":7212,"date":"2025-12-03T09:47:12","date_gmt":"2025-12-03T09:47:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/?p=7212"},"modified":"2025-12-03T09:47:12","modified_gmt":"2025-12-03T09:47:12","slug":"licence-renewal-of-digital-lenders-in-lagos-and-abuja","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/2025\/12\/03\/licence-renewal-of-digital-lenders-in-lagos-and-abuja\/","title":{"rendered":"KENYA\u2019S GAMBLING CONTROL ACT 2025: A NEW ERA FOR REGULATION AND COMPLIANCE\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/REGULATORY-COMPLIANCE-1024x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4885\" srcset=\"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/REGULATORY-COMPLIANCE-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/REGULATORY-COMPLIANCE-300x300.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/REGULATORY-COMPLIANCE-150x150.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/REGULATORY-COMPLIANCE-768x768.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/REGULATORY-COMPLIANCE-650x650.jpeg 650w, https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/REGULATORY-COMPLIANCE-370x370.jpeg 370w, https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/REGULATORY-COMPLIANCE-75x75.jpeg 75w, https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/REGULATORY-COMPLIANCE-760x760.jpeg 760w, https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/REGULATORY-COMPLIANCE.jpeg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Gambling Control Act, 2025 (Act No. 14 of 2025)&nbsp;(\u201cthe Act\u201d)&nbsp;was signed into law on 7 August 2025 and took effect on 20 August 2025. It replaces the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act (Cap. 131). This new law creates an updated system for regulating gambling in Kenya, keeping up with changes in technology, especially online gambling. It also aims to protect consumers and reduce social harm.&nbsp;By modernising the legal framework, the Act&nbsp;seeks&nbsp;to strike a balance between enabling a regulated gambling market and protecting the public from the consequences of unchecked gambling.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-koriat-law wp-block-embed-koriat-law\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/how-to-set-up-a-casino-business-in-kenya\/\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHO IS THE REGULATORY AUTHORITY UNDER THE NEW ACT<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Act establishes the Gambling Regulatory Authority (\u201cGRA\u201d) as Kenya\u2019s central gambling regulator.&nbsp;Section 6 of the Act provides for the&nbsp;GRA&nbsp;to take&nbsp;over all licensing, supervisory, enforcement, research, and policy roles previously handled by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (\u201cBCLB\u201d).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The key functions of the GRA include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Licensing and regulating all gambling activities&nbsp;both&nbsp;land-based and online&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Conducting due diligence on&nbsp;shareholders, board of directors,&nbsp;beneficial owners&nbsp;and management&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Monitoring gambling activity across platforms&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Approving gambling equipment and technology systems&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Leading responsible gambling programmes and social harm mitigation&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The establishment of the&nbsp;GRA&nbsp;marks a shift towards a more structured and professionalised regulatory framework, equipping the sector with stronger investigative tools and more robust enforcement powers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHAT ARE THE CATEGORIES OF LICENCES&nbsp;COVERED UNDER THE NEW ACT?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 28 (1) of the Act states that a person shall not offer any gambling activity or service unless the activity or services is&nbsp;licensed under the Act. Subsection (2) of the same section goes on to list gambling activities that the GRA shall issue&nbsp;licences for&nbsp;as follows:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Public gambling for conducting a table game and&nbsp;operating&nbsp;a&nbsp;slot&nbsp;machine;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A national lottery&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bookmaking&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>On-the course and off-the course totalisators&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Prize competition&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bingo&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Pool betting scheme&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Public lotteries&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Online gambling&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Prize competitions&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-koriat-law wp-block-embed-koriat-law\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/how-to-set-up-a-non-interest-bank-or-financial-institution-in-nigeria\/\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>CAN GAMBLING COMPANIES BE FULLY&nbsp;FOREIGN-OWNED&nbsp;UNDER THE ACT?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While foreigners are allowed to&nbsp;participate&nbsp;in the gambling sector in Kenya, they are not&nbsp;permitted&nbsp;to fully own a gambling company. Section 29 (a) introduces minimum local ownership requirements with at least 30% of shares&nbsp;to be held by Kenyans.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHAT OTHER REQUIREMENTS MUST FOREIGNERS COMPLY WITH IN ORDER TO OBTAIN THE LICENCE?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to ensuring a minimum 30% shareholding by Kenyans, the Act in Section 79 provides that a foreign-based gambling company must do the following:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Must be incorporated in Kenya;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Must have a physical address registered in Kenya&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Provide its audited books of account for the preceding year.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From the above,&nbsp;it is clear that the&nbsp;Act has abolished an era where foreign companies penetrated Kenya via provision of online gaming services without obtaining any operational permit or licence.&nbsp;Section 79 (3) of the Act,&nbsp;makes it an offence for foreign based gambling operators to provide online gambling services in Kenya without a licence.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is important to&nbsp;state&nbsp;that the requirement under Section 29&nbsp;(a) of the Act for a minimum 30% shareholding by Kenyans does not apply to foreign based companies that want to only&nbsp;operate&nbsp;online gambling platforms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ARE EXISITING LICENCE HOLDERS REQUIRED TO APPLY FOR A NEW LICENCE UNDER THE LAW?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under the Transition Provisions of the Gambling Control Act, 2025, all licences previously issued by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) will continue to remain valid only for the unexpired portion of their current licence term. However, these legacy licence holders are required to comply with the provisions of the new Act and any regulations issued by the&nbsp;GRA\u202fmoving forward.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means that although operators are not immediately stripped of their BCLB-issued licences, continued operation is conditional upon meeting all new statutory obligations,&nbsp;including compliance with enhanced licensing requirements, ownership&nbsp;structure and&nbsp;thresholds, security guarantees, technical standards, reporting obligations, and responsible gambling measures introduced under the new regulatory framework.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In essence, the Act allows a transitional runway but does not exempt legacy operators from alignment with the new regime.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-koriat-law wp-block-embed-koriat-law\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/key-considerations-when-purchasing-a-microfinance-bank-in-nigeria\/\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR OBTAINING THE LICENCE UNDER THE NEW REGIME?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The requirements for obtaining the Gambling licence under the Act are as follows:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The applicant must be a body corporate&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The ownership structure must allot at least 30% of&nbsp;the&nbsp;companies&nbsp;shares&nbsp;to Kenyan citizens where the company is owned by foreigners.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The company must maintain an account with a licensed\/authorized financial institution in Kenya&nbsp;and all gambling-related monies must flow through this account.\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Evidence of payment of the application fee&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Evidence of \u201cprescribed gambling capital\u201d (i.e., sufficient financial strength).\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>An insurance bond or bank guarantee.\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Information about how close the proposed gambling premises are to a learning institution.\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Declarations (per the Act\u2019s schedule), including a \u201cgood causes\u201d declaration and a proposed budget for those causes. (\u201cGood causes\u201d generally refers to socially beneficial causes or contributions.)\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Such other information as the Authority may require to assess the application.\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Specific Requirements<\/strong><strong>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>Online-Gambling<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additional&nbsp;requirements for online licences are as follows:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Applicants for online licences must submit a proposed gambling control system to the GRA.\u202f&nbsp;The&nbsp;gambling control&nbsp;system must cover&nbsp;the following:&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Data\/Information security&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fraud&nbsp;and&nbsp;anti-money laundering&nbsp;controls,&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>&nbsp;Protection against underage gambling&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Responsible advertising,&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Consumer protection&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Data protection in line with Kenya\u2019s Data Protection Act.\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>To&nbsp;assist&nbsp;with real-time monitoring,&nbsp;the applicant must provide information about its servers\u2019&nbsp;location&nbsp;and&nbsp;capacities, the architecture of its platform, and network connectivity.\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>For mobile gambling,&nbsp;the operator must provide evidence of two different mobile-network links.\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>There must be a&nbsp;physical location that will serve as a&nbsp;customer care centre in Kenya to handle players\u2019 complaints \/ issues&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gambling Machines \/ Equipment (if applicable)&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If the licence involves gaming machines, the machines must be from a certified source with international standards.\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Imported machines must have a certificate from the GRA specifying the model and functions.\u202f&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-koriat-law wp-block-embed-koriat-law\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/digital-lending-business-in-nigeria\/\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ARE THERE ADDITIONAL PERMITS REQUIRED AFTER OBTAINING THE&nbsp;GAMBLING&nbsp;LICENCE?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to the national licence,\u00a0Section 45 of the Act states that\u00a0the\u00a0operator\u00a0must apply for a trade permit from the relevant county government for the premises.\u202f\u00a0That application will require the national licence, the county-prescribed fee, and other information.\u202fThe county government will issue the permit after confirming that the premises is suitable for the gambling business.\u00a0This permit issued by the county\u00a0government is valid for a period of 12 months after which the holder of the permit will\u00a0be required\u00a0to apply for a renewal of the permit.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE LICENCE?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 31 (3) of the Gambling Control Act provides that the licence under the Act shall be valid for a period of 36 months which begins to count from the date of issue.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The renewal of the licence is not automatic. It is done upon the submission of an. Application for licence renewal along with evidence of payment of the prescribed fee. Please note that the application for licence renewal must be&nbsp;submitted&nbsp;three months before the&nbsp;expiration&nbsp;of the current licence.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHAT OTHER KEY CHANGES CAN BE FOUND IN THE&nbsp;NEW&nbsp;REGIME?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Enhanced Consumer Protection and Responsible Gambling Measures<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Gambling Control Act, 2025 introduces significantly strengthened consumer protection safeguards, marking a major shift from the former BCLB regime. Under the new framework, operators are now subjected&nbsp;to mandatory responsible gambling obligations designed to protect vulnerable players and promote safer gambling environments.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Key measures include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mandatory Responsible Gambling Programs<\/strong>: Operators must implement structured programs that educate players on the risks associated with gambling and provide continuous awareness campaigns.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Self-Exclusion Mechanisms<\/strong>: The Act requires operators to establish easily accessible self-exclusion systems, enabling players to voluntarily restrict their gambling activities for a selected period. Operators must also maintain and enforce a centralized exclusion register.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Strict Advertising and Marketing Standards<\/strong>: All marketing communications must be responsible, non-misleading, and must not target minors or vulnerable groups. The Act further introduces limitations on promotional inducements to ensure they do not encourage excessive gambling.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Protection of Vulnerable Persons<\/strong>: Operators must adopt tools and internal controls designed to detect problematic gambling patterns and intervene appropriately. This includes setting betting limits, implementing age-verification systems, and monitoring high-risk behavior.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Data and Information Security:<\/strong>\u202fSecure storage, transmission, and processing of player and transaction data using industry-standard encryption and cybersecurity protocols.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fraud Detection and Prevention:<\/strong>\u202fAutomated tools and monitoring mechanisms capable of identifying suspicious behaviour, irregular betting patterns, and system manipulation.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Anti\u2013Money Laundering (AML) Measures:<\/strong>\u202fStrong customer verification processes, ongoing transaction monitoring, reporting obligations, and compliance&nbsp;with Kenya\u2019s AML\/CFT framework.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Data Protection Compliance:<\/strong>\u202fAlignment with the Kenya Data Protection Act, including lawful processing, informed consent, secure handling of personal data, and respect for data subject rights.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These consumer protection measures reflect the Act\u2019s objective of promoting responsible gaming, preventing harm, and ensuring that gambling remains a fair and safe recreational activity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-koriat-law wp-block-embed-koriat-law\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/key-requirements-for-public-online-lottery-and-betting-licence-in-lagos\/\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Requirement to&nbsp;Obtain a&nbsp;Telecommunication&nbsp;Licence<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Act now requires applicants, particularly those seeking online or remote gambling licences, to hold a valid telecommunications licence issued by the Communications Authority of Kenya. This requirement ensures that gambling operators use secure, regulated, and technically compliant communication systems that support online betting platforms, safeguard player data, and enable effective regulatory monitoring. It also prevents the use of unregulated \u202ftelecom infrastructure, thereby strengthening oversight and enhancing the integrity of Kenya\u2019s digital gambling sector.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Enhanced Fit-and-Proper Requirements<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most significant regulatory shifts under the Gambling Control Act, 2025, is the introduction of a far more stringent fit-and-proper test for all gambling operators. Unlike the previous BCLB framework, which focused primarily on the applicant entity, the new regime adopts a holistic, individual-level assessment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Act requires that not only the applicant company but also all key persons,&nbsp;including directors, senior managers, significant shareholders, and beneficial owners&nbsp;undergo detailed vetting to determine their suitability to participate in the sector. These assessments examine a wide range of factors, such as:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Integrity and Criminal History:<\/strong>\u202fVerification of any past convictions, regulatory sanctions, or involvement in activities suggesting dishonesty or lack of probity.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Financial Soundness:<\/strong>\u202fAssessment of bankruptcy records, financial stability, and the ability to sustainably operate a gambling business.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Competence and Experience:<\/strong>\u202fEvaluation of the technical skills and professional background necessary to oversee compliant gambling operations.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Conflict of Interest Risks:<\/strong>\u202fIdentification of relationships or affiliations that may compromise independent decision-making or regulatory compliance.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By imposing accountability, the Act seeks to ensure that persons exercising control or significant influence over licensed entities meet the highest standards of honesty, professionalism, and financial responsibility. This threshold aligns Kenya\u2019s gambling regulatory framework with international best practices and enhances the sector&#8217;s overall integrity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Substantial Security Guarantee Requirement<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Gambling Control Act, 2025 introduces a heightened financial safeguard mechanism through mandatory security guarantees, which may take the form of a bond or a bank guarantee. These guarantees are designed to ensure that operators can meet their financial obligations, including payouts to players, compliance penalties, and any liabilities arising from their operations.&nbsp;Notably, the required&nbsp;guarantee amounts are significantly higher than those under the former BCLB regime.&nbsp;With this new requirement,&nbsp;nline and remote gambling operators may now be required to provide security guarantees of up to KSh 100 million, reflecting the higher risk profile and large transaction volumes associated with digital gambling platforms. This substantial threshold underscores the regulator\u2019s intention to strengthen accountability, reduce default risks, and enhance consumer protection in the sector.&nbsp;By imposing this financial buffer, the Act aims to ensure that only well-capitalised, credible, and financially stable entities participate in Kenya\u2019s gambling market, thereby enhancing the sector\u2019s integrity and safeguarding the interest of players and stakeholders.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Real-Time Monitoring and Control System Requirements<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A major technological shift introduced under the Gambling Control Act, 2025 is the requirement for online and remote gambling operators to integrate with the regulator\u2019s real-time control and monitoring system. This system enables the Gambling Regulatory Authority to access live data on wagers, payouts, player activity, financial transactions, and system performance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Compliance with this requirement means that operators must possess robust technological infrastructure, advanced data management capabilities, and secure integration protocols. Operators will be expected to deploy reliable servers, secure APIs, encrypted communication channels, and stable platforms capable of transmitting accurate, real-time data without interruption.&nbsp;This obligation significantly raises the operational threshold for market entry. It ensures regulatory visibility over gambling activity, enhances consumer protection, improves tax monitoring, and helps detect fraud, money laundering, and irregular betting patterns immediately.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In conclusion, the enactment of the Gambling Control Act, 2025, marks a transformative moment for Kenya\u2019s gambling sector, introducing a modern, comprehensive, and technology-driven regulatory framework. By establishing the Gambling Regulatory Authority, expanding licensing categories, imposing rigorous fit-and-proper standards, and mandating robust consumer protection and real-time monitoring systems, the Act aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and player safety.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For operators, compliance under the new regime is no longer optional but requires careful planning, adequate capital, secure infrastructure, and adherence to strict governance and reporting obligations. For consumers, the Act provides stronger protections against&nbsp;evasion of personal data,&nbsp;fraud, underage gambling, and social harm, while promoting responsible and fair gaming practices.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overall, the Act positions Kenya as a forward-looking jurisdiction in the gambling sector, balancing economic opportunity with social responsibility, and aligning domestic regulations with international best practices. Operators, investors, and stakeholders must now proactively align their businesses to meet these enhanced regulatory standards or risk penalties, licence revocation, and reputational harm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">***********************************************************************************<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>About KORIAT &amp; CO.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>We are a commercial law firm in Nigeria with network of lawyers and consultants in Ghana, Kenya and Rwanda. The above article is not legal advice and does not automatically make our readers our clients unless they specifically instruct us to act or represent them in any way.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>We assist local and foreign clients to process company registration and business licences in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Rwanda.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Please contact Koriat &amp; Co. through admin@koriatlaw.com or 09067842241 if you require additional information about or assistance in processing company incorporation or application for<\/em><\/strong>&nbsp;<strong><em>a money lender\u2019s licence.<\/em><\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-koriat-law wp-block-embed-koriat-law\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/how-to-prevent-a-debtor-from-escaping-liability-through-the-use-of-mareva-injunction\/\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Gambling Control Act, 2025 (Act No. 14 of 2025)&nbsp;(\u201cthe Act\u201d)&nbsp;was signed into law on 7 August 2025 and took effect on [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4885,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[567,12,13,14,568,16,569,570,19,20,21,30,31,22],"class_list":["post-7212","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-publications","tag-bclb","tag-caccbnbusiness-licencecompany-registrationfinance-company-koriat-lawyers-koriat-and-coloan-agreementmicro-creditmicrofinance-lawyersmoney-lendersme-lawyers-business-lawyers","tag-cbn","tag-financecompany-cbn-koriatlawyers-koriatandco-smelawyers-businesslawyers-microfinancelawyers","tag-gra","tag-moneylender","tag-onlinegambling","tag-poolbetting","tag-business-licence","tag-company-registration","tag-finance-company-koriat-lawyers-koriat-and-co","tag-micro-credit","tag-microfinance-lawyers","tag-money-lender"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7212","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7212"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7212\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4885"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7212"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7212"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/koriatlaw.com\/2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7212"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}