Kenyan entertainers Bahati and Oga Obinna have voiced their support for the newly implemented government guidelines on betting and gambling promotions, pledging to comply fully with the regulations.
The announcement comes in the wake of the government’s move to suspend all promotional activities tied to gambling and betting platforms. This decision, implemented in late April 2025, placed a temporary ban on celebrities and influencers participating in any form of marketing that promotes betting activities. The directive was aimed at reducing exposure to gambling content, especially among minors and other vulnerable groups.
The suspension signaled a broader government initiative to enforce responsible gambling practices, with the primary goal of preventing gambling addiction and safeguarding affected families from the harmful consequences often linked to betting culture.
One of the main concerns raised by regulatory bodies was the way gambling was being advertised—often glamorized by celebrities and influencers as easy paths to wealth. These portrayals were flagged as misleading and potentially damaging, especially to young audiences and financially struggling individuals, who are more likely to fall prey to get-rich-quick schemes.
Under the new rules, any form of betting-related advertisement from influencers will only be allowed with formal clearance from various state authorities. These include the Betting Control and Licensing Board, Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Kenya Film Classification Board, Kenya Revenue Authority, Financial Reporting Centre, and the Media Council of Kenya. This multi-agency approach underscores the seriousness with which the government is addressing the matter.
Despite initial pushback from some sectors of the creative community, the dialogue between government officials and influencers appears to have led to a consensus. Bahati expressed appreciation for the board’s willingness to engage in meaningful conversations with young content creators. He noted that while earlier statements may have shown resistance to the changes, he and his colleagues now recognize the importance of promoting responsible behavior, especially given the influence they wield over their followers.
Obinna echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the significant role content creators play in shaping societal norms. He highlighted the need for influencers to lead by example and to understand the weight of their influence when promoting activities such as betting. The media personality emphasized the importance of advocating for responsible gambling, noting the destructive consequences it has already had on numerous families and individuals across the country.
He pointed out that gambling addiction has become a serious concern, with lives already lost as a result of the mental and financial strain it causes. According to him, it’s time for influencers to step up and act as ambassadors for safer and more ethical content.
Following the conversations held with stakeholders, a roadmap has been established to regulate the industry more effectively. There’s a renewed commitment from all sides to work together in guiding the public away from exploitative marketing and toward a more controlled and responsible gambling environment.
The developments mark a turning point in Kenya’s efforts to clean up the betting industry, placing the responsibility not just on companies, but also on the voices that drive public interest—celebrities and influencers alike.
