The Kenyan government has announced the formation of a Rapid Response Team to address the alarming rise in gambling addiction among the nation’s youth. This initiative, driven by the Ministry of Health through the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, signals a strong commitment to confronting what officials are calling a growing public health emergency.
With online gambling platforms like Aviator gaining massive popularity, especially among younger demographics, concerns have mounted over the long-term social and mental health consequences. Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, while confirming the launch of the task force, outlined a range of immediate actions to be taken. These include establishing a national support helpline, deploying trained counsellors to schools, and running countrywide public awareness campaigns.
“We are witnessing an unsettling trend where young Kenyans are becoming increasingly dependent on gambling apps that are designed to be highly addictive. The consequences range from financial ruin to serious mental health conditions and even suicide,” said Muthoni.
The Ministry also announced that gambling addiction will now be included in the benefits covered under the Social Health Authority (SHA), allowing affected individuals to receive treatment and rehabilitation support at government-accredited facilities.
“This move ensures that those suffering from gambling addiction are not left behind. We are now offering structured therapy and treatment as part of our national health package,” Muthoni noted.
The task force will work closely with a host of government bodies including NACADA, the Mental Health Division, Mathare and Gilgil Mental Health Hospitals, and the Psychology and Counsellors Board, among others. Together, they aim to map out the extent of the problem and design effective policies to mitigate the risks.
As part of the broader mental health strategy, the Ministry will dedicate a portion of May’s Mental Health Awareness Month to highlight the dangers of gambling addiction. From May 12 to 18, counties will host community-based events focused on education, early intervention, and support.
Parents and guardians have also been urged to stay vigilant. “Talk to your children. Monitor the apps they use, and be alert to red flags like secrecy, sudden financial problems, or dropping academic performance,” Muthoni warned. “Early detection and open dialogue are essential in protecting our young people from falling deeper into addiction.”
With this nationwide response now in motion, the government hopes to not only curb the growing crisis but also build a safer, healthier future for Kenya’s youth.
