This archive report was first published on 29 August 2019.
Kenya's betting industry has welcomed back Betway, a major player that had been out of operation for nearly two months. The firm was cleared by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for licensing by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) in July.
Initially scheduled to resume operations in July, Betway had to wait for feedback from the government before fully resuming its services. The firm was among 10 compliant betting companies that had their licenses renewed after paying taxes on July 23, 2019.
On Wednesday, Betway announced its return to the market, introducing a 20% withholding tax on all winnings. 'We are BACK! Enjoy our new & improved 4 To Score, Win Boost & awesome new Money Back Boost! Remember, a 20% withholding tax will be applied to all winnings,' the firm said in a statement.
Other betting firms cleared by the government include Mozolt Bet, Odi bet, Eastleigh bet, Lucky to you, Ken bookmakers, Bet boss, Kick off, Easi bet, Betika, Odibets, and Palms bet. These firms were among 27 whose licenses were revoked by the Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i for non-compliance.
Market leaders SportsPesa and BetIn, however, remain at odds with the government, with their licenses not renewed. The two firms have suspended their sponsorship of local tournaments, including the Kenya Premier League, due to the impasse.
According to state records, the betting industry has seen a significant rise in annual turnover, from Sh2 billion to over Sh200 billion in the last five years. The government has also established that the industry made about Sh201 billion in 2018, yet remitted only Sh4 billion in taxes.
