Safaricom has been directed to suspend paybill and till numbers for 23 TV stations following a request from the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB). According to the BCLB, the listed stations continue to promote unauthorized betting advertisements despite an earlier 30-day suspension of such content.
In a statement dated Saturday, May 10, 2025, the BCLB stated that the violations include airing payment details (till numbers and paybills) on-screen and encouraging viewers to participate in promotions for a chance to win.
“Safaricom PLC is requested to suspend all associated tills and paybill numbers with immediate effect. The Board also copies this letter to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations with a view to having the promoters brought to book,” read part of the statement.
Safaricom Ordered to Suspend Paybill and Till Numbers for 23 TV stations
The 23 TV stations named for non-compliance include:
- Kameme
- Tohanchane TV
- Humble Touch
- Wave Time
- Yahweh TV
- Goodwill TV
- Massa TV
- JCDH TV
- Swahili TV
- Favour Life TV
- Deliverance TV
- Moja One
- Ngumbao TV
- Naivera TV
- Nyumba Itû
- Aviation TV
- Repower
- Happy TV
- Jawabu TV
- Maajabu TV
- Madhabahu TV
- Michezo TV
- Venus TV
Also Read: KRA Issues Directive to Betting Firms Over BCLB License Renewal
Additionally, the Board has urged the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) to take immediate action against the non-compliant media houses as part of its mandate.
The BCLB also stated that it has resolved to take further action against the listed TV stations, including recommending their immediate shutdown.
BCLB Suspends Betting Promotions on TV and Radio
The Board’s statement comes days after it announced a 30-day suspension of all gambling advertisements and testimonials across media platforms, effective April 29, 2025.
Also Read: Ruto Orders Safaricom to Suspend Paybill Numbers for 58 Companies
The BCLB expressed concern over the rising number of gambling activities in the country, accusing some promoters of misrepresenting gambling as a legitimate investment opportunity and a shortcut to wealth. The Board warned that such depictions have adverse socio-economic effects on individuals, families, and communities.
“In view of these occurrences, and pursuant to its statutory mandate under the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act (Chapter 131, Laws of Kenya), the Betting Control and Licensing Board hereby orders the immediate suspension of all gambling advertisements and testimonials across all media platforms for a period of thirty days from the date of this statement. This directive applies to all licensed gambling operators and covers all forms of advertisement and promotional activity,” BCLB said.
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