When online gaming and casinos started, people often complained about the various technical and security issues they faced and that the industry was not regulated. Soon, different nations started monitoring different online gaming platforms operating in their territories one by one. Kenya has emerged as a new destination for online gambling and gaming. However, as with all new emerging destinations, Kenya needs to properly regulate the industry to ensure greater safety and trust. Here’s a look at how other nations have done it and what the Kenyan government would need to learn.
Rules of Advanced Nations
USA was one of the first nations when it came to launching online games and casinos and for a long time, like any other major market, was prone to many illegal processes. This was the case until 2006, when the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) was passed. This legislation has effectively started to prevent most banks and financial institutions from dealing with the various online games and casinos on the web. This was the first serious step taken by the US government to indicate that it would no longer condone reckless illegal gambling and gambling on the internet. However, states were given the power to legalize the activities, which meant that rules and regulations had to be put in place who guide the industry with regulations for oversight and oversight and companies. A similar pattern can also be seen in Canada, where online gambling regulation is in the province’s jurisdiction, which regulates all forms of online casino gaming, including live casinos with games streamed from a land-based casino .
On the contrary, the UK is an example of a progressive nation that has legalized online gambling in general. This is a nation where online gambling is perfectly legal. What the UK has achieved is a perfect balance between regulating the different sites and promoting a more transparent approach, services and facilities for all players. As long as the casino site has obtained the operating license from the UK Gambling Commission, it can operate as a gaming site within the set regulations.
Rules in other African nations
South Africa generally has a lot of regular offline gaming rooms and although online presence is gaining ground. The government had previously legalized these facilities and even today they have taken a lot of precautions to ensure that they function smoothly within the established legal boundaries. However, in areas like Kenya such systems for proper controls are not yet fully in place and are now a good way to demonstrate what is and is not available in the industry.
What Kenya must do
Kenya is one of those emerging destinations in East Africa where the rules and norms for online casinos are still in their infancy. However, looking at the example of countries like USA and UK, these countries have done their best to regulate online casinos and gambling websites. Therefore, Kenya needs to build a stronger system of rules and regulations to ensure this.
It is expected that Kenya too will draw a line between allowing only licensed and authorized game rooms and websites to function and restricting access to those not playing the books. By striking the right balance between freedom and greater vigilance, the Kenyan government can contain the current surge in online gambling, not just find ways to increase government revenue generated from its activities.