The Communications Authority (CA) has taken a strong stand against several TV stations that ignored the law by airing gambling adverts without permission. The authority has fined nine TV stations, including Yahweh Media Services, Sh500,000 each for breaking the rules. These stations were caught promoting gambling activities even after being told to stop.
Clear Orders Ignored by Broadcasters
Earlier this year, the Communications Authority gave a clear order to all TV stations. On March 13, they sent notices to 33 broadcasters warning them not to air gambling adverts unless they had the proper licenses. Later, on April 23, the authority reminded everyone again with a general advisory to follow the rules strictly.
Despite these warnings, a review in the second week of May 2025 showed that some broadcasters continued to air gambling adverts. This was a direct violation of the law and showed a lack of respect for the rules set by the regulator. Because of this, the CA has decided to punish these stations with heavy fines and has given them a strict 12-hour deadline to stop airing such adverts.
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The Problem Behind the Scenes
The crackdown came after a shocking TV report revealed how some stations, which are supposed to spread religious messages, were secretly promoting gambling. The report showed how some televangelists were running raffles and prize competitions that looked like faith-based blessings but were actually ways to get people to gamble.
Many people watching these shows thought they were joining a religious giveaway. However, the reality was different. Some pastors featured in the report admitted to making large sums of money, sometimes up to Sh700,000 in a single day, from viewers who believed they were participating in faith-based competitions.
This type of disguised gambling is dangerous because it tricks people, especially those who trust these religious programs, into spending money on illegal gambling activities. The Communications Authority found this unacceptable and decided to act quickly to protect viewers from being misled.
Strong Actions Taken by the Authority
Following the review and the public concern raised by the exposé, the Communications Authority has issued a stern warning. They have given the offending TV stations only 12 hours to stop broadcasting any gambling adverts that do not have the required license. If these stations continue to ignore the law, they will face more serious penalties, including losing their licenses to operate.
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The fines of Sh500,000 each serve as a serious penalty for the nine stations caught breaking the rules. The Communications Authority made it clear that this is just the beginning, and any repeat offenders will face even harsher consequences. This move is part of Section 83A of the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998, which gives the authority the power to enforce the rules and protect the public.
This crackdown comes at a time when many people are worried about how gambling content, hidden inside religious programs, is taking advantage of viewers. The public reaction to the exposé was strong, with many calling for better regulation to keep vulnerable people safe from misleading and exploitative adverts.
The Communications Authority’s quick action sends a clear message to broadcasters that ignoring the law will not be tolerated. It also shows their commitment to protecting the public and ensuring that all adverts on TV follow the rules. The 12-hour ultimatum makes it clear that the regulator is serious about stopping illegal gambling promotions immediately.
