KENYA– Kenya has taken a significant step to protect the integrity of its sports sector, with Parliament advancing the Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026 to the next stage of debate. The legislation, sponsored by nominated MP Irene Mayaka, aims to strengthen the country’s legal response to match-fixing and sports manipulation.
On July 29, lawmakers debated the Bill at its Second Reading, examining how betting practices have created incentives for manipulation and stressing the need for tougher penalties.
Proposed Match-Fixing offense
At the heart of the Bill is a new Section 64A, which would criminalize direct or indirect involvement in manipulating sporting competitions. Convictions could carry up to one year in prison, fines of up to KSh1 million (US$7,740), or both. This fine doubles the current maximum under Section 64 of the Sports Act, though some MPs questioned whether it is sufficient given the high financial gains linked to match-fixing.
The Bill also proposes sporting sanctions, including match forfeiture and organizational ineligibility for entities found guilty of manipulation.
Betting Fraud Under Scrutiny
Debate also turned to the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act, which currently prescribes a maximum six-month sentence for cheating in betting. Mayaka argued that this penalty is outdated and inadequate against increasingly sophisticated fraud. She referenced international standards such as the Macolin Convention, which promotes cooperation between governments, sports bodies, and betting operators. Italy was cited as an example of a country that has introduced strong criminal measures against match-fixing.
Protecting Athletes and Bettors
Lawmakers raised concerns about the vulnerability of athletes, particularly young players, to manipulation schemes. Deputy Majority Leader Owen Baya warned that betting incentives could make athletes easy targets, while MP Robert Basil called for closer collaboration between regulators, sports organizations, and law enforcement to combat corruption.
MPs also acknowledged the financial risks manipulated competitions pose to both bettors and legitimate betting operators, stressing the need for stronger safeguards.
Next Steps
While the Bill has passed its Second Reading, it must still go through the Committee of the Whole House for detailed consideration and possible amendments before becoming law. If enacted, the reforms would mark a significant step in Kenya’s fight against match-fixing, introducing tougher accountability and fostering cooperation across the sports and betting industries.
