Government forms rapid response team to tackle rising gambling addiction

In response to the alarming surge in online gambling addiction among Kenyan youth, the government has launched a Rapid Response Team to spearhead a multi-sectoral intervention targeting the growing public health crisis.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Health through the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, comes amid mounting concerns over the widespread use of betting platforms such as Aviator.

Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni on Monday confirmed the establishment of the task force, highlighting its mandate to coordinate urgent actions such as launching a national helpline, deploying counselors to schools and rolling out public awareness campaigns.

“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,” Muthoni said.

“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 behaviours similar to substance addiction.”

The Ministry has pledged to support a multi-agency study to evaluate the extent and impact of gambling addiction in Kenya, aimed at shaping effective policy and programme responses.

At least 4.7 million Kenyans, representing 17 per cent of the population aged between 15 and 65, are currently grappling with substance use disorders, according to recent statistics. This paints a grim picture of the toll gambling and drug abuse are taking on the country’s health and socio-economic fabric.

To bolster support for affected individuals, the government has included gambling rehabilitation under the healthcare benefit packages of the newly launched Social Health Authority (SHA).

“Beyond the existing outpatient mental health services, the government will cover rehabilitation and addiction management costs,” Muthoni said.

“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.”

The Rapid Response Team will work in collaboration with multiple agencies, including the Directorate of Preventive and Promotive Health, the Mental Health Division, Drugs and Substance Use Control Division, Health Education and Promotion Division, Mathare National Teaching and Referral Hospital, Gilgil Mental Health Hospital, the Psychology and Counsellors Board, and the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).

As part of national efforts to boost mental wellness, the Ministry said it will also use this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month in May to intensify outreach under the theme “Community.” The week of May 12 to 18 will feature focused activities addressing gambling addiction across counties.

Muthoni also warned parents, caregivers and guardians, urging them to be alert to the early signs of addiction.

“Monitor your children’s mobile app usage, create open and non-judgmental conversations about gambling, and be attentive to warning signs such as secrecy, sudden financial distress, or academic decline,” she said.

“Encourage healthy alternatives like sports, the arts, and community involvement, and seek professional help where addiction is suspected.”

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She further called on schools to integrate gambling and addiction awareness into their curricula and appealed to religious institutions to offer spiritual and community-based support.

The PS also challenged media outlets to support responsible reporting, asked tech companies to strengthen controls and urged gambling operators to strictly adhere to ethical standards and existing regulations.

“The severe consequences of this issue have prompted the urgent need for intervention. Addressing gambling addiction requires a whole-of-society approach,” she said.

Kenyans in need of help have been urged to reach out via the Ministry of Health helpline by dialling 719, as the government finalises the set-up of a dedicated national support system for gambling-related harm.