Odibets among only a handful of firms declared fully compliant to operate in Kenya

With betting industry players being under pressure from government in recent weeks following the crackdown led by Interior CS Fred Matiang’i over tax compliance, many a bookie have been left guessing on which firms have earned the greenlight to resume operations in Kenya. 

Matiang’i had announced they would conduct a thorough audit of operations, including security vetting before betting firms would have their licences renewed on 1 July 2019. 

The notice came out in April, when the tough-talking CS vowed to introduce tougher regulatory measures on the betting sector, which he accused of leading youth astray.

Matiangi, then, gave all firms three months, until 1 July to re-apply for renewal of licenses upon proving tax compliance.

Bookies on their own

All paybills of the betting firms were shut down on 1 July in radical measures to ensure they toe the line of the new regulations, leaving bookies on their own. 

This was in spite of some of the companies moving to court seeking orders to stop the move but not public outry and political pressure could save the firms from the chop – only a handful of companies had their licences renewed after clearance by Kenya Revenue Authority. 

Odibets, one of the fastest growing in the country, was among the first to be cleared to operate and was quick to implement all set conditions, including the 20% withholding tax on their winnings.

Below is the list of companies cleared to operate in the country:

• Eazi Bet
• Ken Bookmakers
• Eastleighbet
• Mozzartbet
• Lucky 2u
• Palms Bet
• Betboss 
• Kick off 
• Easi bet 
• BetLion

Giants – Sportpesa and Betin, among others are yet to get back their licences from the Betting Control & Licensing Board despite KRA clearance, while the likes of Dafabet are yet to return to business.