Kenya’s gaming industry marked its 20th anniversary with a strong show of renewed commitments to responsible betting and deeper cooperation with government authorities. AGOK members celebrates 20 years. Kenya’s gaming industry saw tax increase by 21%. Photo: AGOK. Source: UGC The celebrations, held at Safari Park Hotel, brought together operators, regulators, and senior state officials who acknowledged the sector’s growing economic importance. How much taxes did gaming industry contribute? During the event, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) reported a 21% rise in gaming tax collections compared to the same period last year.
Deputy commissioner for the Large Taxpayers Office Weldon Ngeno attributed the surge to improved compliance and the new tax regime championed by the Association of Gaming Operators Kenya (AGOK). The updated model in the recent finance laws shifted taxation from stakes and winnings to deposits and withdrawals, a system industry players say has improved transparency and predictability. National Treasury official Michael Kagika, who represented Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, highlighted the role of gaming taxes in funding the state. He noted that securitised future cash flows from the Sports Fund had helped finance the construction of the Talanta Sports Stadium. “These revenues have supported innovative infrastructure financing models. Notably, the government securitised future cash flows of the Sports Fund to mobilise resources for the construction of the Talanta Sports Stadium,” Kagika said. Regulation for gaming industry in Kenya Regulatory changes were a central focus of the event, especially following the signing of the new gaming laws in August 2025.
The law established the new Gaming Regulatory Authority (GRA), replacing the Betting Control and Licensing Board. GRA chair Joseph Kirui Limo said the authority’s elevation to a full parastatal has positioned it to foster a more orderly, transparent, and stable gaming environment. He assured operators that the government recognises the sector as a key stakeholder and promised closer collaboration going forward. “The industry is growing, and it has to be supported. So it is the recognition by the government that you are a very important stakeholder in this country. We are going to work together more than ever before,” Limo said. What is Chukua Control Campaign? AGOK chairman Sasa Krneta said the association’s mission is to unify operators and advocate for fair rules while tackling illegal gaming. He emphasised responsible gaming as the industry’s cornerstone, citing initiatives such as the Chukua Control campaign, enhanced self-exclusion systems, public education drives, and capacity-building programmes. The Chukua Control campaign was launched in May in partnership with the government, and it targets safer gaming practices nationwide.
The campaign brought together multiple agencies, including the Ministry of Health through the Counselling Psychology and Addiction Services Board. “With AGOK sponsoring the campaign, and in partnership with GRA, we are making responsible gaming stronger and more visible across the country,” Krneta said. The campaign includes mental health support, counselling networks, a toll-free helpline, and an eight-hour call centre. Stakeholders at the gaming industry’s 20th anniversary held by the Association of Gaming Operators Kenya (AGOK). AGOK said it will continue engaging the GRA, KRA, the Financial Reporting Centre, and other institutions to create a safe, fair, and predictable ecosystem for licensed operators and millions of Kenyan players.
By Elijah Ntongai
