Crackdown on Betting Companies Receives President Uhuru’s Backing

President Kenyatta has thrown his weight behind the recent crackdown on rogue betting companies in the country.

Speaking on Saturday, Kenyatta vowed the government will not backtrack on its bid to streamline the gambling industry.

He said gaming companies whose licenses were revoked would not be allowed to operate until they are tax compliant.

President Uhuru also accused the affected companies of using court processes to frustrate Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) 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," Kenyatta said.

Last week, the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) directed telecommunications companies to shut down the pay bills and shortcodes for 27 betting companies whose licenses were withdrawn.

"Some firms have been hoarding taxes but we have managed to push them to pay and we will continue doing so. Those in the betting companies are our friends but we have to agree that the government must get its rightful share to build cultural centers and other developments," Kenyatta said while speaking at the wedding of city lawyer Kamotho Waiganjo and Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru.

The affected gambling companies include, SportPesa, Betin, Betway, Betpawa, Premierebet, Lucky 2 U, 1XBet, Dafa Bet, Atari Gaming, PalmsBet, Betboss and Mozzarbet among others.

BCLB said betting companies made a cumulative amount of Sh204 billion in 2018 but paid only Sh4 billion in taxes.