Kenya’s gambling industry has called for changes to the country’s 2026 licensing regulations, raising concerns over high fees, capital requirements and alleged procedural irregularities. During a Senate committee hearing on 3 November, industry representatives urged lawmakers to annul contested provisions while protecting existing operators from regulatory uncertainty.
The Association of Gaming Operators-Kenya (AGOK) has asked senators to annul specific provisions of the 2026 regulations.
Operators argue that licensing fees and minimum capital requirements could restrict market access.
AGOK claims the regulations were introduced without fully complying with statutory procedures.
Horse racing representatives also questioned whether public consultation was adequate.
The Senate committee will consult additional stakeholders before submitting its recommendations.
According to the Parliament of Kenya’s official announcement, AGOK Vice Chairperson Paul Mutegi appeared before the Senate Committee on Delegated Legislation on 3 November.
The association argued that the Gambling Control Regulations, 2026, failed to meet procedural requirements under the Statutory Instruments Act. It also questioned whether certain provisions were consistent with existing legislation.
AGOK had previously raised these concerns with government officials in July and August. The Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary subsequently referred them to the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA).
Mutegi said:
However, no engagements have taken place to date, despite AGOK’s requests.
The association requested targeted amendments rather than leaving licensed businesses without a functioning regulatory framework.
Under the published licensing regulations, online bookmakers and casino operators face a KES 50 million licence fee, a KES 5 million application fee and a KES 5 million annual operating fee.
The framework also specifies KES 100 million in minimum capital.
AGOK argues that these requirements could create barriers to entry, particularly for smaller operators. The association maintains that regulatory charges should primarily cover supervisory costs rather than function as additional taxation.
The disputed fee provisions have also faced separate court proceedings, complicating their implementation.
The concerns arise during Kenya’s broader licensing transition, which has already affected operators’ compliance planning alongside changes in local iGaming market activity.
The Jockey Club of Kenya also appeared before the committee. Its chief executive, Ben Lawrence, questioned whether stakeholders had been adequately consulted during the drafting process.
Following the hearing, senators agreed to seek additional submissions before preparing a report for the Senate.
Similar questions about licensing costs and industry consultation have emerged in other regulated markets, while procedural scrutiny of gambling licensing remains an important regulatory issue.
For Kenyan sportsbooks, casino operators and technology partners, the immediate concern is regulatory certainty. The Senate has not annulled the disputed provisions, and the outcome of its review remains open.
