NAIROBI, KENYA — The Kenyan Ministry of Health has issued a strong warning regarding the escalating public health crisis posed by online gambling addiction, particularly affecting the nation’s youth and fueled by platforms such as Aviator.
In a statement released by the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni Muriuki affirmed the government’s commitment to a multi-agency approach to combat what officials have termed a “trap that exploits psychological vulnerabilities.”
The Ministry reports a concerning surge in young Kenyans grappling with severe gambling addiction, leading to a decline in mental health, financial devastation, and tragically, instances of suicide. The government is drawing parallels between this compulsive betting behavior and substance addiction, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated intervention across sectors.
This crisis unfolds against the backdrop of a broader public health emergency, as Kenya also contends with widespread substance abuse. Data indicates that approximately 4.7 million Kenyans, representing 17% of the population aged 15 to 65, are currently struggling with a substance use disorder. The Ministry cautions that the social and economic ramifications of both gambling and drug addiction are profound and far-reaching.
Government response
In response to this growing threat, the Ministry of Health has established a Rapid Response Team tasked with coordinating immediate and long-term interventions. Initial measures announced include the launch of a national helpline specifically for gambling addiction (Dial 719), the deployment of counselors to schools and other educational institutions, and a nationwide public awareness campaign highlighting the dangers of online gambling.
Furthermore, the Ministry will support a comprehensive, multi-agency study aimed at assessing the prevalence and societal impact of gambling addiction. The findings of this research will be used to inform evidence-based policy and strategies.
The Social Health Authority (SHA) has also confirmed that treatment for addiction, encompassing gambling-related disorders, is now included within Kenya’s healthcare benefit packages.
Rehabilitation services will be accessible through accredited facilities such as Mathare National Teaching and Referral Hospital and Gilgil Mental Health Hospital.
The government has reiterated its stance that addiction is a serious medical condition requiring appropriate and professional treatment.
A dedicated multi-agency team, spearheaded by the Mental Health Division, has been formed. This team comprises units from the Directorate of Preventive and Promotive Health, the Drugs and Substance Use Control Division, NACADA (National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse), and key mental health institutions.
The government has also announced a significant focus on gambling addiction during the upcoming Mental Health Awareness Month in May, with intensive activities planned for the week of May 12–18 under the overarching theme of “Community.”
Parents and guardians urged to stay vigilant
The Ministry of Health has issued a strong advisory to parents and guardians, urging them to be vigilant in monitoring their children’s online activities, to foster open and honest conversations about the risks associated with gambling, and to seek professional help immediately if signs of addiction emerge.
The Ministry also encouraged the promotion of alternative, healthy outlets for young people, such as sports, artistic pursuits, and community involvement.
An appeal has been made to media houses, schools, religious organizations, technology companies, and gambling operators to collaborate actively in addressing this critical issue.
This includes responsible and ethical reporting, the integration of gambling awareness into educational curricula, and stricter adherence to ethical gaming practices by gambling companies.
Gambling in Kenya
Kenya is recognized as one of the leading African nations in gambling activity, with mobile-based betting dominating the market. A 2021 GeoPoll survey revealed that over 70% of Kenyan youth aged 18–35 have engaged in betting, with football being the most popular sport for wagering.
The same survey indicated that many bettors spend an average of KES 1,000 per month, with some individuals exceeding KES 5,000. Regulatory gaps and aggressive marketing strategies employed by betting firms have further exacerbated this growing problem.
The Ministry of Health’s decisive statement signifies a crucial shift in perspective, framing gambling addiction not merely as a moral failing, but as a significant public health emergency demanding a comprehensive and unified response from all sectors of society.
