Written by Faith Mwende
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has given television and radio broadcasters 14 days to scale back their betting, lottery, and gambling programming or face the possibility of having their licences revoked.
In a directive issued by CA Director General David Mugonyi, the regulator cited a surge in complaints from the public over the overwhelming presence of betting-related content on TV and FM radio.
Mugonyi reminded broadcasters of their obligation under Sections 461(1)(a), (c), and (i) of the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998, which requires responsible programming that caters to the diverse needs of the community, upholds decency and good taste, and ensures advertisements are neither misleading nor offensive.
“The Authority has noted that many broadcasting stations have surpassed the approved limits for betting, lottery, and gambling content, violating the conditions of their licences, the Programming Code, and the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998,” Mugonyi stated.
Additionally, the CA flagged violations concerning children’s protection and advertising standards, accusing some broadcasters of breaching FM radio and TV licence conditions related to content regulation and complaints handling.
Broadcasters have been instructed to rectify these issues within two weeks. Failure to comply will lead to enforcement actions, including the potential revocation of broadcasting licences under Section 46J(a) and (b) of the Act.
“This communication serves as an official notice to all broadcasters to address these non-compliances within 14 days and fully comply with the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998, their Licence Conditions, and the Programming Code,” Mugonyi warned.
He further cautioned that if violations persist, the Authority would proceed with enforcement measures as provided under Section 83A(1) of the Act.
