NAIROBI, Kenya – In a move to address the rising tide of online gambling addiction among Kenyan youth, the government has launched a Rapid Response Team aimed at curbing the public health crisis.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Health through the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, comes amid mounting concerns over the widespread use of online betting platforms like Aviator.
Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni confirmed the establishment of the task force, which is tasked with coordinating critical actions such as launching a national helpline, deploying counselors to schools, and executing public awareness campaigns.
“We have noted with deep concern the increasing cases of gambling addiction, especially among young people, which is being exacerbated by online platforms,” Muthoni said. “These platforms exploit psychological vulnerabilities, leading to severe financial distress, deteriorating mental health, and, tragically, incidents of suicide.”
The government has pledged to support a multi-agency study to evaluate the extent of gambling addiction in Kenya.
This study aims to inform policies and shape effective responses to the crisis, which currently affects an alarming number of Kenyans.
According to recent statistics, approximately 4.7 million Kenyans aged 15 to 65 struggle with substance use disorders, with gambling contributing significantly to the crisis.
To provide much-needed support, the government has included gambling rehabilitation in the healthcare benefits offered by the newly launched Social Health Authority (SHA).
This initiative ensures that those affected by gambling addiction can access treatment and rehabilitation services at no cost.
“The government is committed to covering rehabilitation and addiction management costs,” Muthoni added, urging families and individuals grappling with gambling addiction to utilize the support available through accredited rehabilitation facilities.
The Rapid Response Team will collaborate with various agencies, including the Directorate of Preventive and Promotive Health, the Mental Health Division, and NACADA, among others, to strengthen efforts to combat gambling addiction.
As part of the national effort to improve mental health, the Ministry of Health will use May’s Mental Health Awareness Month to raise awareness, with a week of activities focused on gambling addiction.
Schools and religious institutions are also being urged to integrate gambling awareness into their curricula and community outreach programs.
Muthoni emphasized the importance of parental vigilance in identifying the early signs of gambling addiction in children.
She urged parents to monitor mobile app usage, engage in open conversations, and look out for signs like secrecy, financial problems, or academic decline.
Kenyans seeking assistance can contact the Ministry of Health’s helpline at 719 for immediate support, as the government prepares a dedicated system to address gambling-related harm.
The government’s swift intervention reflects the urgent need for a holistic, societal approach to tackle the far-reaching consequences of gambling addiction in Kenya.
