This archive report was first published on 13 July 2019.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has reaffirmed his government's commitment to reforms in the betting industry, emphasizing the need for firms to pay their fair share of taxes to support Kenya's economic growth.
Speaking at a traditional wedding in Kirinyaga County on Saturday, July 13, 2019, President Kenyatta noted that the taxes collected from betting firms are essential for development and the betterment of the country's economy.
He warned that his government will not revoke the decision to shut down the paybills and short codes for 27 betting firms until their licenses are renewed, citing court processes being used to frustrate the taxman and other regulatory agencies.
"The firms should stop threats that they will move to court. The government must get its share to fund activities that are beneficial to this country," President Kenyatta said.
According to data from the government, the annual turnover in the gambling industry rose from Sh2 billion to over Sh200 billion in the last five years alone, with betting companies making about Sh201 billion in 2018 yet paying only Sh4 billion in taxes.
President Kenyatta's remarks come as the government has ordered all betting firms to apply afresh for operating licenses, starting July, in a move to net firms that have been evading taxes despite reaping billions of shillings in profits.
