Kenya Forms Rapid Response Team to Tackle Youth Gambling Addiction Crisis

Government has established a Rapid Response Team to provide a multi-sectoral approach to the escalating crisis of online gambling addiction, among young people.

This initiative comes as the Ministry of Health, through the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of gambling addiction fueled by platforms like Aviator.

In a statement, Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni noted that the response team will establish a dedicated helpline for individuals affected by gambling addiction and deploy counselors to learning institutions to provide psychosocial support.

This as well as roll-out of targeted public awareness campaigns to educate communities on the risks of online gambling.

“The Ministry will support a multi-agency study to assess the prevalence and full impact of gambling addiction in Kenya, with a view to informing effective policy and programmatic responses.” PS Muthoni added.

The Principal Secretary noted that many young Kenyans are falling into severe gambling addiction, leading to financial distress, deteriorating mental health, and, tragically, incidents of suicide.

“The Ministry of Health, through the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, has noted with deep concern the increasing cases of gambling addiction in the country, particularly among young people, driven by the growing popularity of online platforms such as Aviator.” She noted.

Adding that: “Reports indicate a disturbing trend of young Kenyans falling into severe gambling addiction, leading to financial distress, deteriorating mental health, and, tragically, incidents of suicide. The Ministry highlights the addictive nature of these online platforms, which exploit psychological vulnerabilities and can induce behaviors similar to substance addiction. The severe consequences of this issue have prompted the urgent need for intervention.”

Approximately 4.7 million Kenyans-representing 17% of the population aged 15 to 65 years are grappling with some form of substance use disorder.

This reality paints a grim picture of the devastating health, social, and economic consequences facing families and communities nationwide.

PS Muthoni confirmed that rehabilitation and addiction, including gambling, are now included in the healthcare benefit packages under the Social Health Authority (SHA).

She remarked that the government will cover rehabilitation and addiction management costs beyond the existing outpatient mental health services.

“Beyond the existing outpatient mental health services, the government will cover rehabilitation and addiction management costs. I urge all individuals and families affected by gambling addiction to take full advantage of this critical support. Our accredited rehabilitation facilities are equipped to offer comprehensive therapy and treatment.”

Multi-Agency Task Force comprises of the Mental Health Division, that include Directorate of Preventive and Promotive Health, Mental Health Division, Drugs and Substance Use Control Division, Health and Wellness Division, Health Education and Promotion Division, Mathare National Teaching and Referral Hospital, Gilgil Mental Health Hospital, Psychology and Counsellors Board and the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).

Mental Health Awareness Month – May 2025

Similarly, PS Muthoni noted that the Ministry will intensify national efforts to promote mental wellness as part of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month in May, under the theme “Community.”

She mentioned that the week of 12th to 18th May 2025 will feature focused activities to address gambling addiction across counties.

The Ministry also urged parents, caregivers, and guardians to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting children and youth by monitoring digital activities and mobile applications in use, creating open and non-judgmental dialogue about the risks of gambling, recognizing warning signs, such as preoccupation with betting apps, secretive behavior, sudden financial issues, or academic decline.

Further the PS called upon parents and guardians to seek professional help where addiction is suspected as well as encourage healthy alternatives, including sports, arts, and community involvement.

While acknowledging that gambling addiction requires a whole-of-society approach, PS Muthoni called for the media outlets to support responsible reporting and awareness.

She urged educational institutions to integrate gambling and addiction awareness in curricula while calling on religious organizations to offer guidance and community-based support.

The PS also asked technology companies to strengthen controls and promote responsible gaming and urged gambling operators to adhere strictly to existing laws and ethical standards.

Members of the public can contact the MOH Helpline: Dial 719 for immediate support as the health ministry establishes a dedicated national support system for gambling-related harm.