This archive report was first published on 6 October 2019.
On October 6, 2019, the government's handling of the betting industry in Kenya was under scrutiny as SportPesa, a major betting firm, prepared to leave the country due to a tax dispute with the Kenya Revenue Authority.
The dispute highlighted the need for regulators and betting firms to work together to resolve conflicts, rather than allowing them to escalate and harm the economy and workers.
While the government has the right to set policies and collect taxes, it must do so in a way that is fair and transparent, rather than making companies look like 'rogues'.
The fact that some betting firms have been allowed to operate raises questions about whether they have been given special treatment or are truly compliant with regulations.
Ultimately, the government must speak with one voice and work with the private sector to resolve disputes and create a stable business environment.
