The inaugural iGaming summit in Nairobi held this week positioned Kenya at the center of the industry Kenya has emerged as a key iGaming market in Africa amid the continent’s rapidly evolving gaming industry. The inaugural iGaming summit in Nairobi held this week positioned Kenya at the center of the industry, highlighting both its investment potential and the urgent need for balanced regulation, taxation, and consumer protection.
Speaking at the event, iGaming Africa CEO and summit director Jeremiah Maangi described the gathering as a strategic effort to showcase Kenya—and the continent—as a viable destination for global gaming operators. With participation from over 100 countries, the summit reflects growing international interest in Africa’s digital gaming market, fueled by rising internet penetration, mobile money adoption, and a youthful population.
For investors, Nairobi is increasingly seen as a gateway into a high-growth sector that spans sports betting, online casinos, and emerging segments such as e-sports. However, alongside this growth comes scrutiny. A key theme throughout the summit was responsible gaming.
Industry leaders and regulators emphasised that while gaming can be commercially lucrative, it also carries risks of addiction and financial harm. "Gaming must remain a form of entertainment, not a substitute for income. Initiatives such as self-exclusion tools, behavioral monitoring, and public awareness campaigns are being prioritised to protect consumers, particularly vulnerable groups," said Joseph Limo, chairperson of the Gambling Regulatory Authority.
Regulation is undergoing a significant transformation. The transition from the outdated 1966 legal framework to the new Gambling Control Act marks a turning point for the sector. According to the GRA, the new regime introduces stricter oversight, including a centralised monitoring system that enables real-time tracking of betting activity.
This system is expected to help identify problematic gambling patterns early, allowing both operators and regulators to intervene before harm escalates.