President William Ruto on Tuesday, October 3, led the cabinet in pushing for reforms in the gambling sector.
The Ruto-led cabinet resolved to address the negative implications of irresponsible gambling and instead use it to drive social impact.
According to a cabinet dispatch from a sitting chaired by President Ruto at State House, members of the cabinet approved three bills aimed at creating a framework for the transformation of the sector.
The move, according to the dispatch, will make it possible for the government to leverage gambling activities for social progress in Kenya.
“Additionally, the Cabinet approved the Gambling Policy, 2023, the Gambling Control Bill, 2023, and the National Lottery Bill, 2023, which will be forwarded to Parliament,” the dispatch read in part.
Consequently, the three bills will be forwarded to parliament for consideration in the process of enacting them into law.
As per the dispatch, the proposed laws will help to strengthen regulation of gambling activities and address high taxation concerns.
Additionally, the laws aim to create a framework for adoption of technology in a bid to boost chances of the sector’s growth.
“They aim to strengthen regulation, address high taxation perceptions, and utilize technology for a responsible and thriving sector”, the dispatch read.
The proposals on Tuesday came months after President Ruto formed a task force to spearhead the process of creating a national lottery.
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The lottery, according to the government will help to raise funds aimed at supporting social initiatives targeting the society. Such funds are often used in supporting sports activities, arts, and charity work.
Ruto directs budget cuts
In addition, President William Ruto issued a directive to all government ministries requiring them to cut their expenditures by 10%.
Further, the Head of State warned state officers against tolerating corruption and wastage of public resources in their dockets coming on the back of recent resolve to adopt austerity measures.
He underscored the essence of the unified payment system requiring payment for all government services to be completed using a unified paybill.
Also Read: President Ruto Appoints National Lottery Taskforce
Also announced in the meeting is a move to mop up maize harvested in various parts of the country.
The cabinet approved a budget of Ksh 4 billion to purchase the grains from farmers amid jitters over uncertainties surrounding the price of maize among farmers.
Additionally, Ruto’s cabinet endorsed the construction of a new 60,000-capacity stadium in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2027.
Renovations for the Moi International Sports Centre-Kasarani, Nyayo Stadium, and Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret were also discussed in meeting.
