BCLB suspends gambling advertisements on all media platforms
As a response to the concerns about gambling addiction in Kenya, the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) issued a directive to suspend gambling advertisements for 30 days across all media platforms. The immediate ban is targeted at limiting the broadcasting of gambling activities that have been associated with adverse socioeconomic effects on individuals and households.
BCLB Chairperson Dr Jane Mwikali Makau was particularly concerned about the rising uptake of gambling in the country, especially how gambling promoters have been misrepresenting gambling as a real investment. “Some gambling promoters are increasingly mischaracterising gambling as a legitimate investment opportunity and a shortcut to wealth creation,” she stated. This misrepresentation has given the perception that gambling is a way of achieving financial success, and this has consequently pushed many individuals down a destructive road of addiction.
The suspension by the BCLB covers all licensed operators and applies to various types of advertising, including television and radio advertisements, social media promotions, print media ads, and outdoor marketing methods like billboards.
The board especially pointed out the concerning frequency of gambling advertisements during the watershed hours of 5:00 am to 10:00 pm. Dr Jane emphasised this timing issue by saying, “Of particular concern is the rampant airing of gambling advertisements during the watershed period… thereby exposing vulnerable members of the population, particularly minors, who are gradually drawn into gambling-related addiction.”
In response to these concerns, the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has released a directive that requires all licensed operators to suspend advertisement operations for 30 days. During the suspension window, all advertisements should be submitted to the for review and approval prior to broadcasting. The exercise is meant to guarantee that ads are complying with regulatory guidelines governing gambling operations in Kenya.
Enhancing responsible gambling practices
Due to the consequences that are associated with uncontrolled gambling activities, the BCLB has insisted on the importance of all operators adopting these measures that will ensure responsible gambling practices. “All licensed gambling operators and promoters should implement comprehensive measures to promote responsible gambling practices, according to the licensing and operating conditions released by BCLB,” remarked Dr Jane.
Additionally, the BCLB has established a multi-agency enforcement team comprising members from different government ministries, including the Ministry of Interior, the Office of the Attorney General, and the Communications Authority of Kenya. This collaboration will formulate policies and suggestions geared towards promoting responsible gambling across the board. The board has also asked the Communications Authority of Kenya to disable and block unauthorised foreign gambling sites that operate in the Kenyan jurisdiction.
Regulatory strides
The government remains committed to safeguarding public welfare, particularly for the youth, while promoting social responsibility within the gambling sector. Efforts are currently underway to push for the enactment of the Gambling Control Bill, which is expected to reaffirm oversight of gambling activities in the country.
Additionally, the is to complete and implement new guidelines to ensure that gambling advertisements in the media industry are in line with stringent controls. The public has also been urged to report any gambling taking place illegally to the BCLB or the nearest police.
The step taken by the BCLB to suspend gambling advertisements is a significant step towards confronting gambling issues within the country. Through its active participation in the enforcement of responsible gambling initiatives and the tightening of controls, the government aims to protect vulnerable individuals in society, especially children, from the dangers of gambling addiction. The next 30 days will be vital in reshaping the image and control of gambling in the nation.
