Dr. Jane Mwikali, the Chairperson of the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), has expressed gratitude and satisfaction following the signing of the Gambling Control Bill 2025 into law by the President.
Her role in steering the reforms has been significant, marking a milestone both for her leadership and for the gambling sector in Kenya.
In her statement, Dr. Mwikali reflected on the journey since her appointment, acknowledging the challenges, criticisms, and the importance of staying committed to the task despite opposition. She took pride in being the first woman to lead the board since 1966 and to oversee such a major legislative change.
President William Ruto, Dr Jane Mwikali and the rest of the government in signing of the New Gambling Bill 2025. Photo courtesy.
“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,” she said.
Dr. Mwikali added that the achievement was a combination of legacy, stewardship, and obedience to purpose. She emphasized that gambling had become a serious concern, particularly among the youth, and needed to be addressed with a reformative approach that balanced economic gains 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,” she stated.
The President, in a message posted on Facebook, echoed similar concerns about the growing gambling trend among young people, warning of its threat to the country’s social fabric.
He explained that the government had opted for a comprehensive strategy that weighed both the benefits and costs of gambling. “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 society, we have taken a comprehensive approach that strikes a balance between the cost and benefits of gambling,” the President wrote.
He confirmed that the Gambling Control Bill 2025, along with the Kenya Roads (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2025, had been signed at State House in the presence of top government officials.
The passage of the new law is expected to bring tighter regulations to the betting industry, encourage responsible gambling, and help shield vulnerable groups from exploitation.
For Dr. Mwikali, this moment represents not only a professional accomplishment but also a personal mission fulfilled, one she believes will leave a lasting impact on the sector and society.
