Dr. Jane Mwikali, Chairperson of the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), has reached a major achievement after the president approved the Gambling Control Bill 2025 into law.
This follows months of work aimed at overhauling Kenya’s betting industry, which has raised increasing alarm over its effects on the public, particularly the youth. The signing took place at State House with the president, deputy president, National Assembly speaker, legislators, and senior state officials in attendance.
Dr. Mwikali, the first woman to head the BCLB since its creation in 1966, has been praised for her determination in championing this legislation despite resistance and skepticism when she assumed the role.
She faced scrutiny, especially from faith-based groups, questioning how a woman devoted to God could lead a sector tied to gambling.
For her, the task was about initiating reforms and making sure the business runs under firm, responsible oversight.
At the event, Dr. Mwikali gave a heartfelt speech, saying, “Grateful for grace, humbled by history. Today, I pause to give glory to God for this remarkable milestone. When I accepted the appointment to serve as the Chairperson of the Betting Control and Licensing Board, in the Executive Office of the President, I knew it wouldn’t be easy. The criticism came especially from religious circles. Many asked, ‘How can a woman of God lead the gambling sector?’ But I didn’t cower. I understood the assignment. Light is most needed in darkness. We are the light of the world a city set on a hill cannot be hidden. I now stand as the first woman Chairperson since 1966 to successfully midwife the change of legislation, culminating in the assent of the Gambling Control Bill 2025, at State House. The Bill was assented to by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Kenya, in the presence of the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Members of Parliament, and other senior Government officials. This is legacy. This is stewardship. This is obedience to purpose. Gambling has taken a worrying trend bespecially among our young people and poses a serious threat to our social fabric.
That’s why we have adopted a comprehensive, reformative approach that balances economic interest with social responsibility. The new law is not just about regulation it is about redemption. It is about protecting the vulnerable while enforcing accountability and structure in the industry. To God be all the glory.”
While signing the Bill, the president also spoke on the issue, saying, “Gambling has taken a worrying trend, especially among our young people, posing a serious threat to our social fabric. To ensure that it does not become a menace to the society, we have taken a comprehensive approach that strikes a balance between the cost and benefits of gambling.”
With the legislation now enacted, the BCLB will be required to apply stricter control measures in the betting field, safeguard at-risk populations, and encourage responsible gaming.
For Dr. Mwikali, this marks both a personal and career milestone, demonstrating her dedication to leadership rooted in ethics, mission, and public good.
