Complete Kenya Sports Betting Guide 2026

Sports Betting in Kenya — Complete Guide

Kenya has a vibrant betting culture with over 15 million active bettors. The market is well-regulated, mobile-first, and dominated by M-Pesa payments.

Is Betting Legal in Kenya?

Yes. Sports betting is fully legal and regulated by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB). Always verify a site’s BCLB license before registering — check the footer of the bookmaker’s website for their license number.

How to Deposit via M-Pesa

1. Open the M-Pesa app or dial *334#
2. Select Lipa na M-Pesa → Paybill
3. Enter the bookmaker’s Paybill number (e.g., Betika: 290290)
4. Enter your phone number or account ID as reference
5. Enter the deposit amount and your M-Pesa PIN
6. Funds appear in your betting account within seconds

Popular Leagues for Kenyan Bettors

• FKF Premier League — Kenya’s top flight featuring Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards, Tusker FC
• English Premier League — The most bet-on league in Kenya
• UEFA Champions League — Midweek action with massive markets
• NBA Basketball — Growing rapidly among younger bettors

Taxation on Betting in Kenya

Kenya applies a 20% withholding tax on net winnings. This is automatically deducted by licensed operators before payout. The Finance Act 2025 introduced changes to how withdrawal taxes are calculated — always check the latest regulations.

Responsible Gambling

Set deposit limits, never chase losses, and use the self-exclusion tools provided by licensed operators. If you need help, contact the BCLB helpline or visit bclb.go.ke.