Skip to content
paybillke
RegulatoryEffective 26 August 2025Updated 26 October 2026

GRA replaces BCLB: Kenya's new gambling regulator explained

The Gambling Control Act 2025 set up the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) to replace the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB). The Act was assented to on 7 August 2025 and commenced on 26 August 2025, according to Kenya Law.

What changed

  • The Gambling Control Act 2025 replaced the old Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act and set up the GRA in place of the BCLB.
  • Under section 122 of the Act, licences issued under the old law stay valid until they expire. The holder then applies to the GRA.
  • Section 70 requires a money prize to be credited to the player's account within two days.
  • Section 39 requires the GRA to keep a register of licences open to the public for a fee.
  • The GRA's toll-free line is 0800 723 770 (gra.go.ke).

Why it matters

For ordinary punters, depositing and withdrawing work as before. What changed is who licenses and supervises operators, and the rules they answer to, including the Conduct of Gambling Operations Regulations 2026.

What to do

  • Set a deposit limit in your betting account if you want one.
  • If you have a complaint about a licensed operator, contact the GRA on 0800 723 770.
  • Check the licence the operator names on its own site, and ask the GRA if you are unsure.

See paybillke first on Google. Pick us as a preferred source and our updates show up more often in your Top Stories.

Add paybillke on Google

Published 15 June 2026 on paybillke. Last verified 26 October 2026. We refresh news entries quarterly and within 48 hours of any directly relevant ecosystem change. Editorial process.