Gambling was a largely inconsequential part of Kenya’s history but in recent years a lot has changed and gambling, sports betting in particular, is an essential part of the country’s culture, economy, and sporting landscape. Kenya is now the 3rd largest betting market in the continent, but how did we get here:
Colonial Period: Early Roots of Gambling
While gambling likely existed in informal forms during Kenya’s colonial period, there is little documented evidence of structured gambling activities. Games of chance were probably practiced among local communities and colonial settlers, but formal gambling establishments did not emerge until later. The lack of regulation during this period meant gambling was largely unregulated and limited in scope.
Emergence of Land-Based Casinos
The 1960s marked a turning point for gambling in Kenya with the establishment of the first land-based casinos. Notable venues included the Casino de Paradise in Mombasa and the Nairobi Casino, which opened during this decade. These casinos primarily served expatriates, tourists, and a small elite class, offering games like roulette, blackjack, and slot machines. The introduction of the Betting, Lotteries, and KENYA Gaming Act in 1966, inherited from the United Kingdom, formalized the industry. This legislation created the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), tasked with regulating and licensing gambling activities, which helped boost tourism revenue.
1980s-1990s: Expanding Access to Locals
By the 1980s and 1990s, cultural attitudes toward gambling shifted, making it more acceptable for local Kenyans to participate. This period saw the rise of slot parlors and smaller gambling halls in urban centers like Nairobi and Kisumu. However, these establishments faced challenges such as high operational costs and competition. Despite these hurdles, the number of gambling venues grew, with around 30 land-based casinos established by the early 2000s. Popular casinos included Casino Flamingo, Mayfair Casino, and Captain’s Club in Nairobi, and Golden Key Casino and Senator Casino in Mombasa.
Early 2000s: The Digital Revolution
The early 2000s brought significant technological advancements that transformed Kenya’s gambling landscape. The widespread adoption of mobile phones and increasing internet access laid the groundwork for online gambling. Mobile payment systems like M-Pesa, introduced in 2007, revolutionized transactions in Kenya’s largely cash-based economy, enabling quick deposits and withdrawals for gambling activities. This technological shift made gambling more accessible to a broader population, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas.
2010s: The Boom of Online Gambling
The 2010s marked a significant boom in online gambling, particularly with the entry of the first sportsbook in 2013. SportPesa, a leading sportsbook, became immensely popular, with reports indicating that 82% of Kenyan gamblers have or had an account with the platform. Other sportsbooks, such as Betin, Elitebet, Betika, Mcheza, and Betpawa, also entered the market, capitalizing on Kenya’s passion for football.
Sports betting became the dominant form of gambling, contributing to an estimated $2 billion in revenue. Online casino games, including poker, blackjack, and roulette, also gained traction, supported by Kenya’s fast internet speeds (13.7 Mbps, ranking 14th globally) and high internet penetration (over 40%).
International gambling operators began targeting the Kenyan market, while local operators offered platforms in Swahili, accepted local payment methods, and developed games inspired by regional culture. The closure of the state-owned casino ended the government’s monopoly on gambling, allowing private operators to dominate the online space.
Present Day: A Vibrant Digital Market
As of 2025, Kenya’s gambling industry, particularly the online casino market, is thriving, with hundreds of platforms available. Mobile apps dominate, offering bonuses and instant payouts to attract users. The BCLB continues to license and monitor digital operators to curb illegal platforms, ensuring consumer protection. Kenya’s gambling market was valued at over $40 million in 2020 and has likely grown further, making it the third-largest in Sub-Saharan Africa, after South Africa and Nigeria.
Cultural and Economic Impact
Gambling is deeply ingrained in Kenya’s culture, with the country having the highest number of gamblers in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among young people. The industry’s economic contributions are significant, with sports betting alone generating substantial revenue. However, this growth has raised concerns about gambling addiction, especially among youth, as highlighted in reports of individuals spending significant portions of their income on betting. The predominantly Christian population in Kenya, unlike some Muslim-majority African countries where gambling is prohibited, has contributed to its cultural acceptance.
Regulatory Framework
The BCLB remains the cornerstone of gambling regulation in Kenya, issuing annual licenses that expire on June 30th of the following year. Unlicensed operators face substantial fines, jail time, or both. While online gambling is legal, betting on foreign sites operates in a legal gray area but is generally permitted. The government has attempted to tighten regulations in recent years to address concerns about addiction and illegal operations, balancing economic benefits with social responsibility.
Challenges and Future Considerations
The rapid growth of gambling in Kenya has brought both opportunities and challenges. While the industry has created jobs and boosted tourism, the rise in gambling addiction, particularly among young people, is a growing concern. Reports suggest that Kenyan youth spend more on gambling than their counterparts in other African countries. Addressing these issues requires expanding support services for problem gamblers and fostering awareness of responsible gambling practices.
Key Statistics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Legality Start | Gambling legalized in 1966 via the Betting, Lotteries, and Gaming Act. |
| Regulatory Body | Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB). |
| Number of Establishments | Over 50, including casinos, racetracks, and bingo halls. |
| Slot Machines | Approximately 1,300 nationwide. |
| Market Size (2020) | Over $40 million, third-largest in Sub-Saharan Africa. |
| Popular Games | Sports betting (especially football), poker, blackjack, roulette, slots. |
| First Sportsbook | Entered in 2013 (SportPesa). |
| Internet Speed | 13.7 Mbps, 14th globally. |
| Internet Penetration | Over 40%, mostly mobile. |
Conclusion
The history of gambling in Kenya reflects a dynamic evolution from colonial-era informal games to a modern, technology-driven industry. The establishment of regulatory frameworks in 1966, the growth of land-based casinos, and the digital revolution of the 2000s have positioned Kenya as a leading gambling market in Africa. While the industry offers significant economic benefits, addressing social challenges like addiction will be crucial for its sustainable growth. As of 2025, Kenya’s gambling landscape continues to thrive, driven by innovation and a strong regulatory framework.
