The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has issued a tough directive requiring all gambling companies operating in the country to obtain filming licenses for their audiovisual advertisements, marking a fresh wave of regulation in the sector.
The move follows an Executive Order from the Office of the President, instructing the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) to rein in the unregulated spread of gambling ads across media platforms.
In a statement released today, KFCB’s Acting CEO, Paskal Opiyo, emphasized that all gambling advertisements must be submitted for classification and approval before being aired.
“This directive ensures that gambling advertisements adhere to appropriate content standards and comply with Kenyan laws,” said Opiyo.
All submissions are to be made through the Technical Management System (TMS), accessible via the KFCB website or directly through the TMS platform.
KFCB has further cautioned media houses against broadcasting any gambling advertisements that have not been classified and approved, warning that such actions violate the Films and Stage Plays Act, Cap 222.
The directive comes amid growing concern over the impact of excessive gambling advertisements on vulnerable populations—especially youth. The government has in recent months intensified its scrutiny of the gambling sector, with the BCLB already suspending gambling ads and forming a multi-agency task force to oversee responsible advertising.
KFCB’s latest move is intended to ensure all gambling content is held to strict standards of responsibility and public safety.
The board noted that all future audiovisual ads by gambling firms must undergo classification before being published, aired, or distributed.
