Problem Gambling In Kenya: What Can We Learn From The UK?

The popularity of gambling is growing on the continent, and Kenya is among the main target markets for giant international operators. Reports indicate that approximately 83% of the country’s population engaged in casino or betting activities at least once.

The sector is regulated in the state, but the local legislation is flexible and allows operations of both in-country and overseas platforms. Users’ interest in gambling activities resulted in increased rates of compulsive players, and the government, together with controlling authorities, is searching for ways to cope with the problem. The UK’s example can be helpful here, so look at what Kenya should consider.

Strengthened Gambling Regulations and UK’s Self-Exclusion

British iGaming legislation is one of the strictest globally. The UKGC, the primary regulatory authority in the country, supervises the industry and regularly initiates amendments to boost transparency and consumer protection. GamStop self-exclusion has become a significant change in the last decade. The UK implemented a nationwide program covering all gaming and betting sites in the country, allowing restricted access to problem players.

Multiple options are still available at NonGamStopBets.com casinos not on GamStop in the UK, providing more flexible customer conditions. These websites are registered outside the British jurisdictions and are controlled by offshore regulators, guaranteeing safety and transparency. In this case, users don’t risk being banned from their favourite entertainment but must be more responsible on non-GamStop platforms. The UKGC still aims to reduce the impact of foreign operators on the state’s iGaming sector and encourage local players to select British online casinos.

Efficiency of Self-Exclusion Tools

The Kenyan government can consider implementing self-exclusion like in the UK and motivate locals to join the program after they notice the first signs of compulsive problems. Reports estimate that around 11% suffer from gambling addiction, but the actual figure can be higher. Many users prefer to hide their harmful passion and never report their conditions.

GamStop has already shown efficiency in the British market, with over 80% of its participants mentioning reduced cravings for this risky entertainment. Implementing a similar tool in Kenya can appear beneficial for everyone engaged in the industry. GamStop analyses user activities in online casinos and sportsbooks and blocks players with excessive activities. Moreover, the tool provides access to support groups and treatment organisations, offering viable advice for compulsive players and accelerating their recovery.

Integrating Limitations in Online Casinos

The UK has a well-developed gambling sector, with millions of users engaged in the industry. However, the country’s regulatory body thoroughly controls all aspects of iGaming operations. For instance, each casino must comply with global KYC policies and initiate customer verifications during registration. This process eliminates the participation of underage individuals and compulsive players in this entertainment.

The UK has recently initiated a gambling reform, limiting casino and betting ads in the country. In addition, the new law touches on maximum bet sizes for younger players. Users under 25 cannot wager more than £2 per spin or round, aiming to prevent overspending. Kenya can take advantage of this method and initiate new regulations to gain more control over the industry.

Moreover, the UKGC limits the usage of potentially harmful payment solutions like cryptocurrencies and credit cards. Bitcoin and its alternatives are untraceable, so users often exceed limits due to the lack of control. At the same time, credit cards provoke the desire to borrow money and gamble more, which is a common cause of gambling problems. Kenyan regulatory authorities should also consider implementing more limitations for risk-seekers and tracking all their actions in online casinos. This approach can help reduce the number of addicts and promote responsible gaming habits among the population.

Boosting User Awareness About the Problem

Responsible gambling initiatives are widespread in developed countries, with many reputable online casinos integrating AI mechanisms that inform users about the need to take a break and prevent overspending. Moreover, various events like Safer Gambling Week are held in the UK, emphasizing the importance of staying in control and promoting responsible gaming habits. World news often covers these efforts, raising awareness about the steps being taken to protect players globally.

Being informed about the possible negative consequences of excessive gambling encourages players to stay in control and make more responsible decisions. The Kenyan government should consider this example and launch more informational campaigns for locals, helping them understand the risks they take when engaging in online casinos. By drawing from international examples, Kenya can work towards creating a safer gambling environment for its citizens.

The Final Word

The Kenyan gambling sector is in its infancy, but the industry is rapidly evolving. Increased user engagement calls for regulatory updates and higher control over local and overseas iGaming companies operating in the state. The UK’s example is a good opportunity since the country has already launched numerous laws to cope with casino-related disorders. Implementing self-exclusion like GamStop is an effective mechanism for coping with compulsive habits among Kenyans. Moreover, the regulatory authorities should set deposit and bet limits and educate users about the possible dangers of gambling.

Source: capitalfm.co.ke

About Post Author

Samuel

I am a journalist specializing in gambling in Africa and around the world. I am particularly interested in stories about games and casinos.

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Samuel

I am a journalist specializing in gambling in Africa and around the world. I am particularly interested in stories about games and casinos.