The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) announced a 30-day suspension of all gambling advertisements and influencer marketing campaigns promoting betting platforms, citing concerns over consumer protection and the rapid rise of online gambling.
The temporary ban on betting ads, which took effect immediately, is meant to reduce the aggressive marketing tactics that have been flooding both social and traditional media, particularly targeting younger audiences and the old, unknowing people.
As a result, around 58 websites—especially those offering casino-style games and lotteries—were flagged for operating without proper licences and for failing to meet the required consumer protection standards. This was confirmed by BCLB officials from the Executive Office of the President.
“Unauthorised betting websites have sparked public outrage by operating without approval from the Board. The Board has taken note of complaints from concerned citizens regarding these platforms, which exploit users by demanding money through betting schemes,” a letter from the BCLB read in part.
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Among the named websites are several that gained popularity through intense online marketing, mostly targeting young adults with flashy ads and questionable promotions. These include Cheza Crash, Pesa Crash, Pesa Chap, Pata Mia, Play Mania, and various Aviator games, as listed in the government’s letter below:
Banned betting sites in Kenya
Even so, there remain a number of betting platforms that were not banned. These sportsbooks are licensed and regulated by the BCLB, ensuring compliance with state laws, consumer protections, and responsible gambling measures. We are going to look at the top 5:
Top 5 legitimate betting sites in Kenya with bonuses
Every betting site has its own unique design and character. We compare and rank the best betting sites in an easy-to-follow and concise way, just for you.
1. Sportpesa
SportPesa is Kenya’s go-to betting platform, loved by millions for its ease, trustworthiness, and exciting rewards.
SportPesa rewards you from the start. New users get free bets, and multibet bonuses can boost your winnings up to 1,000%.
Established in 2014 by Milestone Games Ltd, it holds a BCLB licence (Licence No. 0000520) and is renowned for supporting local teams like Gor Mahia in the Kenyan Premier League, boosting local credibility.
2. Sofabets
Sofabets.com is a fast-growing online betting platform that’s winning hearts countrywide with its exciting features, secure setup, and generous rewards.
Registered under BCLB Licence Number BK0000687, when you first register on their website, you get a free bet of KSh20–50, which you can use to bet on your games of choice.
This Sofabets platform was not among the recent gambling sites flagged by the betting board.
3. Betika
Betika.com is a top-tier betting platform offering excellent bonuses and a secure experience. Licensed by the BCLB (No. BK0000679), it uses strong encryption to protect users’ money and data.
Operated by Shop and Deliver Limited since 2016, Betika is a trusted name. New users can sign up on their website to enjoy free bonuses with every deposit and a wide range of betting markets across various leagues.
Betika promotes responsible gambling with account limits, self-exclusion options, and 24/7 support via live chat or email ([email protected]).
4. MozzartBet
Launched in 2020 in Kenya, MozzartBet holds a BCLB licence (Licence No. 0000665) and is highly rated for its market variety and user experience.
With over 30 markets per football match and live betting options, MozzartBet requires players to deposit at least Ksh5 to play. There is no upper deposit limit, although payment platforms may impose transaction limits.
New users can receive a 50% bonus on their first deposit—up to Ksh2,500—plus up to 50 free spins on the Aviator game.
Ownership of MozzartBet is distributed among several shareholders, both locally and internationally. These include Musa Cherutich Sirma, Branimir Melentijevic, Koviljka Loncar, and Emmanuel Charumbira.
5. OdiBets Kenya
OdiBets is a beloved Kenyan betting platform, offering fun, safety, and big wins to players in Kenya, Ghana, and beyond.
Reportedly owned by Jimmy Kibaki, it was launched in 2018 by Kareco Holdings Limited and is licensed by Kenya’s BCLB under Licence No. BK0000673, and by Ghana’s Gaming Commission.
On their site, new users get a KSh30 free bet upon registering, plus weekly loyalty bonuses like KSh50 for five KSh50+ bets. Enjoy over 50 sports, including football (Premier League, Kenyan leagues), basketball, tennis, and eSports (FIFA, CSGO). There is also the Odi League virtual game, which lets you bet every two minutes for quick wins!
Following the recent directive, BCLB urges users to gamble responsibly, set strict limits on time and money, and view betting as entertainment and not a source of living income.
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