Kenya Acknowledges: Blocking Aviator Is Impossible
The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) of Kenya has publicly admitted that it is not possible to block the crash game “Aviator.”
Why Aviator Can’t Be Blocked
According to BCLB Director Peter Mbugi, “Aviator” is owned by SPRIBE, a company registered in Poland. The platform and servers are hosted outside of Kenya, making it impossible for national regulators to restrict access or revoke licensing.
Additionally, banning all operators who offer the game is not feasible. This makes both technical and legal enforcement within Kenya extremely challenging.
Popularity and Impact on Youth
“Aviator” has become one of the most popular online gambling games, quickly gaining traction across markets. Mbugi noted that the game now has local variations in several countries, further increasing its appeal.
Members of Parliament have voiced concern over the game’s widespread advertising in Kenyan media. The impact on youth has been particularly alarming: students are reportedly using tuition money for gambling, while adults are risking family savings.
Lawmakers’ Criticism: A Game That Destroys Families
Gilgil MP Martha Wangari stated that “Aviator” has become so widespread that it threatens family stability in both urban and rural communities. She added that gambling addiction is also affecting older adults.
Several lawmakers highlighted troubling cases where students gamble with school fees and parents put their last funds at stake.
Plans for Gambling Sector Reform
Although “Aviator” itself cannot be blocked, the BCLB has proposed sweeping regulatory reforms. Key proposals include:
- Minimum capital requirements: KSh 50 million for small betting firms, KSh 5 billion for casinos.
- Photo-based identity verification: users must submit a photo holding their ID during registration.
- Ad filtering: all gambling ads must be classified as adult content and aired only during restricted hours.
Stricter Ad Regulations
The BCLB is tightening control over gambling advertisements:
- All ads must be reviewed by the Kenya Film Classification Board.
- Outdoor ads are limited; bonuses, daily jackpots, and free bets are being phased out.
- Mandatory warnings: “Gambling is addictive” and “Gamble responsibly.”
Gambling Revenue in Kenya
Despite regulatory hurdles, Kenya’s government continues to collect substantial revenue from the gambling sector:
| Period | Tax Revenue (KSh) |
|---|---|
| Past 7 years | 96.7 billion |
| FY 2023/2024 | 22.3 billion |
| Until January 2025 | 14.5 billion |
Current Taxation Structure
Gambling operators in Kenya are subject to multiple tax obligations:
- 15% excise duty on each bet;
- 20% tax on players’ net winnings;
- 50% tax on gross gaming revenue;
- Standard corporate income tax.
Conclusion: Legal Reforms Are Needed
Mbugi emphasized that the gambling industry is still governed by laws dating back to 1966. He urged lawmakers to support regulatory reforms to ensure effective oversight of the growing betting market and protect citizens from addiction.
Limiting advertising, raising financial entry barriers, and tightening user verification are seen as essential steps to curb the impact of games like “Aviator.”