Gambling should be a form of entertainment, not a source of financial or emotional harm. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available.
The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) is Kenya's gambling regulator. It oversees all licensed operators, handles player complaints and coordinates responsible gambling policy.
Website: bclb.go.ke
Address: Nairobi, Kenya
You can report unlicensed operators and file complaints about licensed platforms directly through the BCLB website.
If you are experiencing gambling-related problems, reaching out is the most important step. Kenyan resources include:
Set daily, weekly or monthly deposit limits on your betting account. Most BCLB-licensed operators and international platforms provide this option in the account settings or cashier section. Setting a limit prevents overspending before you start.
Take a short break — typically 24 hours to 6 weeks — from all gambling activities on a platform. During a time-out, your account is temporarily suspended and you cannot log in or make transactions. Most platforms activate time-outs immediately upon request.
Permanent or long-term self-exclusion removes access to your account for a minimum period, often 6 months to 5 years. Once activated, it cannot be reversed during the exclusion period. Contact the platform's customer support to request self-exclusion.
Enable session reminders that notify you of how long you have been playing and how much you have spent. Regular reminders help maintain awareness of gambling behaviour and encourage informed decisions to stop or continue.
You have the right to permanently close your betting or casino account at any time. Contact the platform's support team, request a permanent account closure and ensure all remaining funds are withdrawn to your M-Pesa or bank account before closure is completed.
Speaking with a trusted friend, family member or healthcare professional about gambling concerns is a powerful first step. Many Kenyans find that sharing their situation reduces the isolation often associated with problem gambling.
Recognising problematic gambling behaviour early can prevent serious harm. Be aware of the following warning signs in yourself or others:
Kenya's Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act sets the legal framework for gambling regulation in the country. The BCLB requires all licensed operators to implement responsible gambling measures including age verification (18+), self-exclusion mechanisms and player protection policies.
If you believe an operator is violating responsible gambling obligations, report them directly to the BCLB at bclb.go.ke.