This archive report was first published on 12 July 2019.
Kenya has been grappling with a gambling crisis for over five years, with the youth being the most affected. The allure of quick riches has led many young people to bet, hoping to escape financial woes and unemployment.
However, the government's latest approach to curb the gambling craze has raised concerns. On July 1, 2019, the government withdrew the licenses of several betting firms, sparking a conflict between the government and the companies.
As the government plots to shut down more betting firms, the consequences may be far-reaching. Telecommunications companies, which partner with betting firms, may also suffer losses. For instance, Safaricom, Kenya's largest telco, initially refused to comply with the government's order to withdraw pay bill numbers belonging to betting firms, citing pending court cases.
But what about the millions of gamblers who rely on betting as a means of survival? The government's move may force them to seek alternative sources of income, potentially boosting the country's economy. However, it may also lead to a reduction in tax returns for the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
As the government weighs the pros and cons of its crackdown on betting, one thing is clear: the consequences will be felt across the country.
