The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has debunked reports that Kenyans spent Ksh766 billion in 2024 on gambling alone. In a statement dated April 20, the board termed this figure as sensational and aimed at misleading not only policymakers but also the public on the economic reality of licensed operators. "Debunking the Ksh766 billion myth recently reported in the media, claiming that Kenyans spent Ksh766 billion on gambling in 2024, a figure roughly equivalent to 31 per cent of national revenue," part of the statement read. "The sensational figure inaccurately inflates the size of the regulated market, likely by including offshore (unlicensed) platforms." File image showing a betting website.
File According to BCLB, taxes related to the gambling sector that were collected in the 2024/25 financial year totalled Ksh22.3 million.
Additionally, the board noted that 10,000 Kenyans are directly supported through the business, and over 500,000 livelihoods are supported indirectly.
It also reportedly contributes substantial amounts to community projects under corporate social responsibility (CSR).
