TLDR Kenya’s gambling industry paid KSh32 billion ($247 million) in taxes by the end of April 2026, up from KSh24 billion in the 2022/23 financial year The Kenya Revenue Authority credited the increase to stronger operator compliance and rising customer activity Gambling tax revenues are now funding public services including healthcare, education, and infrastructure The KRA is considering reduced excise duty rates for operators that implement player safety programs Kenya is positioning itself as a regulatory and commercial hub for Africa’s gaming industry
Kenya’s gambling sector has produced a sharp increase in tax revenue, with the Association of Gaming Operators Kenya reporting KSh32 billion ($247 million) collected by the end of April 2026.
That figure is up from KSh24 billion recorded during the 2022/23 financial year. The numbers were shared at the iGaming AFRIKA Summit held in Nairobi.
The event brought together regulators and operators to discuss taxation, compliance, and responsible play across African markets.
J.W. Otieno, chief manager at the Kenya Revenue Authority, said the jump reflected both better compliance by operators and increased customer activity. He confirmed the year-on-year growth in a statement shared by AGOK during the summit.
“There is clear evidence on the year-on-year rise in total taxes collected from the industry from Ksh24bn in financial year 2022/2023 to Ksh32bn as at end April 2026…and counting!” Otieno said.
The tax revenue is being directed toward public services. AGOK said funds are supporting healthcare, education, and infrastructure spending.
The association also noted that gambling taxes are helping reduce the burden on Kenya’s broader tax base. This means other taxpayers benefit indirectly from the industry’s contributions.
Kenya Eyes Balanced Regulation for Gaming Growth
The summit also addressed the future direction of gambling regulation in Kenya. Otieno indicated the Kenya Revenue Authority is exploring incentives for