Betting board begins enforcing order barring gaming operators from using speed dial feature

In a letter dated February 16, 2024, BCLB Director Peter Mbugi wrote to all gaming operators ordering them to comply with the board’s directive failure to which the regulator will commence contempt of court charges against them.

“We make reference to the Board’s circular REF: BCLB 8/71 VOL.1 (157) dated 11th August 2023 on the use of ‘speed dial’ feature on the internet browsers. We further make reference to a court order issued by the High Court at Nairobi in the above-stated matter on 16th January 2024. This is therefore to directly that you cease with immediate effect, the use of the ‘speed dial’ feature on all internet browsers,” reads the letter 

The move by the betting regulator is a win for Consumer Federation of Kenya (COFEK) following a petition lodged by the consumers’ lobby.

BCLB director has further warned that those who defy to comply will face necessary legal action.

“Failure to comply with the board’s directive shall lead to the commencement of the necessary processes as stipulated under Section 4 (1) (b) of the Betting Lotteries and Gaming Act, CAP 131 of the laws of Kenya in compliance with the order issued by the High Court. Be informed accordingly," BCLB director Peter Mbungi says. 

In the case filed in January 2024, COFEK had sued BCLB over the speed dial, arguing that betting firms were using the feature to target Kenyan internet users without regard for age.

According to COFEK, the use of the feature exposes children to serious and irreversible harm, thereby going against the government’s campaign for the protection of minors online.