Kenya: Gambling Shops Closing Down Following Government Directive

The Coronavirus pandemic is proving to be a pain in the neck for all businesses in the world and apparently, the gambling sector has not been spared.

Following a directive by the Ministry of Health on Sunday, March 22, 2020, that all entertainment and social centers should be closed, Kenya’s gambling board has decided to crack its whip.

According to the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) all betting shops including casinos have to be shut down in a move to ensure the Coronavirus is not spread through such avenues.

“Coronavirus has continued to affect the world in an unprecedented way,” said BLCB director Peter Mbugi said in a memo.

“In view of these developments, you are hereby directed to close down all casinos and betting shops with effect from the date of this circular until further notice,” he said.

Mr. Mbugi urged Kenyans to act responsibly and take heed to the Government’s advice for them to stay safe and healthy during this time.

“As responsible citizens, you are also required to keep yourselves abreast of and compliant with the government directives that will be issued periodically,” he added.

Hitherto, Kenya has reported 25 cases of the deadly covid-19 prompting the Government to put up stringent measures to contain the spread of the virus.

The Kenyan Government has banned all social gatherings, suspended international flights and subjected everyone who enters the country to mandatory isolation, closed all schools and advised people to work from home.

The same situation is being witnessed in most countries around the world where most cities are having a total lockdown and nonessential businesses are closed indefinitely. Major sporting events have also been canceled to tame the spread of the virus.

Over 400,000 cases have been reported globally with over 18,000 deaths. Experts warn the situation might be worst in the coming weeks if the virus is not contained.

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