MACHAKOS, Kenya – The government has initiated a sweeping crackdown on betting firms across the country, citing growing concerns over the devastating impact of gambling addiction on Kenyan youth.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr. Raymond Omollo announced the crackdown on Saturday during the Jukwaa la Usalama public engagement forum in Machakos County.
He emphasized that rogue operators within the betting industry would be targeted in a bid to protect vulnerable citizens.
“Our people are hooked into betting, and we are focused on cleaning up this space,” said Dr. Omollo, stressing the urgent need for reforms. “We are targeting rogue businessmen and women and calling on the public to assist security officers in reining them in.”
Dr. Omollo noted that the issue has become so grave that President William Ruto is personally monitoring the ongoing operation.
He warned that gambling addiction has led to widespread poverty, increased crime rates, and, in some cases, suicide among young Kenyans.
“Changes must be made to protect Kenyans from the ravages of betting addiction. Many have fallen into criminal activities or depression as a result of gambling losses,” the PS stated.
The announcement follows a directive issued last week by the Communications Authority of Kenya, ordering broadcasters to limit betting, lottery, and gambling-related content.
TV and radio stations have been given 14 days to comply or risk losing their licenses — a move aimed at reducing the normalization of betting among audiences, particularly the youth.
In addition to the betting crackdown, Dr. Omollo echoed Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen’s call for stern action against politicians who lure unemployed youth into criminal gangs. Such leaders, he said, will be apprehended and prosecuted.
“We must dismantle the networks that exploit our young people, whether through gambling or recruitment into criminal activities,” Dr. Omollo declared.
The crackdown represents a broader effort by the Kenya Kwanza administration to address rising insecurity and socio-economic challenges by cutting off pathways that push the youth into crime and financial ruin.
Earlier this week, the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) Chairperson Dr. Jane Mwikali Makau, issued a detailed statement addressing several key issues, including the social impacts of the gambling sector and the efforts being made to ensure the industry operates responsibly.
She reported that a large majority of adult Kenyans have engaged in gambling at least once in their lifetime, with a notable increase in youth participation.
Smartphones have made online betting more accessible, with many young people turning to digital platforms for sports betting.
The sector is expected to generate KES 20 billion by 2025 although concerns over the societal impact of gambling have grown, especially regarding the risks it poses to public health and well-being.
