KENYA– Senate has opened public participation on the Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026. This match-fixing bill aims to tackle sports competition manipulation. Betting and gaming regulators are among the stakeholders invited to share views. Their input will help shape the proposed framework.

The measure is known as National Assembly Bill No. 5 of 2026. It would set out how manipulation cases get investigated. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) would lead this process. Relevant sports organisations would work alongside the DCI.

Bill Proposes Tough Penalties for Offenders

The bill carries strict penalties for anyone found guilty. Offenders would face a fine of three times the value involved. Alternatively, they would pay KSh10m (US$77,250), whichever is higher. Courts could also impose up to five years’ imprisonment, or both penalties together.

Sports organisations would gain new powers as well. They could impose disciplinary sanctions on those involved. These include fines, suspensions, and bans. Organisations could also order the forfeiture of proceeds linked to the manipulation. As sports betting grows across Kenya, these tools could help protect fair competition.

Committee to Gather Stakeholder Views

The Senate committed the bill to a specific committee. The Standing Committee on Labour and Social Welfare will handle it. This committee must facilitate public participation. It must also consider all views and recommendations received. These inputs will shape its report on the bill.

The Senate Bills Digest lists several expected stakeholders. Betting and gaming regulators top the list. Sports Kenya and the Office of the Sports Registrar will also take part. Sports federations and the National Olympic Committee of Kenya are on the list too. In addition, the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya, athletes, and clubs may present views.

Key Deadlines for Submissions and Hearing

Stakeholders must act quickly to take part. Written submissions must reach the Senate by September 28, 2026, at 5pm. The public hearing follows the next day. It is scheduled for September 29 at 11am. The venue is the Mini Chamber, First Floor, County Hall, Parliament Buildings in Nairobi.

Framework Promotes Information Sharing

The proposed framework also addresses cooperation between key institutions. It would provide for information exchange among several groups. These include law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies. Betting regulators and sports organisations would take part as well. This cooperation could help investigators spot suspicious activity faster.

What Happens Next for the Bill

The committee has 30 days to report on the bill to the Senate. The National Assembly passed the legislation with amendments on August 19, 2026. However, it remains under parliamentary consideration for now.

If both Houses approve the bill, it moves to the President for assent. After that, it would be published in the Kenya Gazette. It would then come into force according to its provisions.