Betting Sites in Kenya
Best Betting Sites in Kenya
Whatever your sports betting needs, there is a bookie out there. But knowing how to find the best bookie is a different beast altogether. That is why you need our insight.
We have trawled the online betting space to make this comprehensive guide highlighting the top sportsbooks in Kenya, exploring their licenses, welcome bonuses, sports markets, and much more. By the end of this guide, you will know which site is worth your account registration.
List of Top Betting Sites in Kenya
The following is a list of all betting sites in Kenya that we believe meet our strict criteria. We have also highlighted their key features and pros and cons.
1xbet Kenya
1xBet burst into the betting space in 2022 and has quickly established itself as a market leader in Kenya. They have a license from the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) and offer over 30 sports to bet on.
If you value user experience as much as we do, 1xBet's clean, modern design will be a huge selling point. The site is well-designed and easy to navigate. On sign up, the operator offers 200% of your first deposit as a bonus of up to KES 40,000. The minimum deposit required is KES 112.
We were also happy to learn that 1xBet sponsors local teams and works with CAF to improve the quality of football in Africa.
1xBet Features
- Live betting and streaming
- Bet by SMS
- Tax-free betting
- Swahili language option
Pros | Cons |
✔️ Extensive sports coverage | ❌ Slow withdrawals are common |
✔️ Good odds on football | ❌ Customer support may take time to respond |
✔️ Multiple bonuses and promotions | |
✔️ Accepts deposits by Airtel Money | |
✔️ Straightforward registration process |
22bet Kenya
22Bet is a sports betting site that was established in 2018. It has quickly become popular among bettors because of its broad range of sports markets and competitive odds.
Although 22Bet operates worldwide, its legality in Kenya is indisputable. It holds a license from BCLB of Kenya under License No. 0000417. Also, the bookie uses the most up-to-date SSL technology to safeguard punters' information.
Moreover, 22Bet has an exciting offer for Kenyan players where you can make your first deposit and get a 100% bonus of up to KES 19,000. The qualifying deposit is KES 150. Deposits and withdrawals are processed quickly – and the banking portfolio includes M-PESA and other Kenyan-friendly payment options.
22bet Features
- Betting via SMS
- In-Play Betting
- Live betting and live-streaming
- Mobile app for iOS and Android
Pros | Cons |
✔️ 35+ sports and eSports to pick from | ❌ Limited payment options |
✔️ Competitive odds across various sports and events | ❌ No data-free feature |
✔️ Amazing welcome bonus | |
✔️ VIP program | |
✔️ Friendly user interface |
Betwinner Kenya
Betwinner was founded in 2018. It has since established itself as a reputable and trusted platform, offering over 40 sports markets. In terms of legality in Kenya, Betwinner is licensed and regulated by the BCLB under License No. BK0000182.
The operator provides a range of offers, including a 100% first deposit bonus of up to KES 19,500. Customers may also jump on offers such as Accumulator of the Day, Cashback, Advance Bet, and Birthday Bonus.
Have a question or concern? Customers can get support through the live chat option or email.
Betwinner Features
- Early cash-out feature
- Live betting
- Virtual sports
- Mobile App for Android and iOS.
Pros | Cons |
✔️ Welcome bonus for new players | ❌ Wagering requirements for bonuses are stringent |
✔️ Variety of betting options, including football, basketball, and rugby | ❌ There is no dedicated casino section |
✔️ Vast selection of odds | |
✔️ Smooth and easy-to-use site | |
✔️ Accepts M-PESA |
Melbet Kenya
Melbet is one of the new betting sites in Kenya. It is licensed by BCLB under license number BK0000196.
The sportsbook offers 30+ sports, including football, athletics, rugby, and many more. They also have a sign up bonus of up to KES 26,000. The minimum deposit amount to activate the bonus is KES 200. We tried depositing some money, and we found the process quite easy, especially if you use M-PESA, which is very popular in Kenya.
Players can also enjoy a top experience with the mobile app. This app offers similar services to the desktop version; thus, both live, and pre-match betting are seamless.
Melbet Features
- Cash-out option
- In-play betting
- Live streaming
Pros | Cons |
✔️ Extensive sports betting options | ❌ Melbet platform looks rather basic |
✔️ Fast withdrawals every time | ❌ Tough bonus conditions |
✔️ Weekly and monthly promotions | |
✔️ Accept M-PESA and Airtel deposits and withdrawals |
Paripesa Kenya
Anyone looking for the best betting sites in Kenya cannot avoid Paripesa. As a great soccer betting provider, this operator places a special focus on football, basketball, cricket, volleyball, and tennis. However, other sports are not overlooked either – and players can choose from more than 20 options.
There is a 100% sign up offer of up to KES 15,000 to start with. Based on our experience, the bonus terms were fair and player-friendly. The accepted deposit methods are M-PESA, Skrill, credit cards, and Neteller, among others.
What's more, the convenience of its Android and iOS apps, alongside its mobile version, ensures smooth access to the sportsbook anytime, anywhere.
Paripesa Features
- Edit Bet Slip feature
- Live statistics across all sports
- Live betting and streaming
- Mobile app for iOS and Android
Pros | Cons |
✔️ Excellent range of sporting events | ❌ The minimum deposit is a bit high |
✔️ Accepts M-PESA | ❌ Few customer support channels |
✔️ Welcome bonus for new players |
1Win Kenya
1Win started its operations in 2018. Over such a short time of existence, it has managed to win the hearts of many Kenyans and bettors all over the world. The secret of success is simple – here, you get an extensive selection of betting options, including sports events from major leagues to niche competitions.
The user interface of their website is well-designed, making it easy even for beginners to navigate around and locate these sporting events.
1Win offers a welcome bonus for new members (500% up to KES 110,000). In addition, regular players are not left out, as the operator provides ongoing promos such as accumulator bet boosts, enhanced odds on specific events, and cashback rewards.
When it comes to mobile betting, 1Win has a dedicated Android and iOS app. That means players can access the sportsbook and enjoy their favorite sports events on the go.
1Win Features
- Live betting
- Mobile app
- Responsible gaming tools
Pros | Cons |
✔️ A wide range of sporting events | ❌ Odds fluctuate more frequently and drastically |
✔️ User-friendly interface and accessible design | ❌ A high minimum withdrawal limit (KES 1,000) |
✔️ First deposit offer and great deals for regular players | |
✔️ Accepts M-PESA | |
✔️ Instant payouts |
Megapari Kenya
Megapari was launched in 2019. Their sportsbook has developed a reputation for offering competitive odds, live betting and streaming, speedy payouts, and over 300 betting options.
What's more, users on the platform can expect some bonuses to get them started. Right off the bat, new players get a 100% first deposit bonus of up to 15700 KES! There is also a 100% Saturday football bonus of up to KES 14,446, an accumulator bonus, a 3% Cashback Bonus, free bets, a birthday bonus, and Loyalty bonuses.
Most notably, the Megapari app can be installed on Android and iOS devices, so users can enjoy the convenience of mobile betting.
Megapari Features
- Several registration methods: email, phone number, or social network.
- Ability to change time zones, odd formats, and languages
- iOS and Android apps
Pros | Cons |
✔️ A range of sports events | ❌ Limited phone support opportunities |
✔️ Daily bonuses and promotions in different events | ❌ Not possible to change the currency after registration |
✔️ Many payment methods and fast withdrawals | |
✔️ Competitive odds | |
✔️ Accepts Kenyan shilling for deposits and withdrawals |
Vbet Kenya
VBet is an international bookmaker that provides betting services for players across the globe. Kenyan bettors can also use the platform to place bets on sports events like football, volleyball, cricket, rugby, and more.
This bookie has a modern website design and layout. Its pink tones suit the dark layout. The animations on most website elements look great, so we can say that the sportsbook is quite the looker.
New players will receive a 100% match bonus. Other promotions include cash prizes, boosted odds, 10% cashback, 2 goals ahead early payout offer, Acca bonus, win boost, profit booster, and others. From a financial perspective, punters can use any crypto replenishment option to make a deposit. Both deposits and withdrawals are quick and fee-free.
In 2019, VBet became the official partner of the EPL giants – Arsenal. It was a great honor for the operator to partner with one of the best football clubs in the world.
VBet Features
- Live betting and live-streaming
- Statistics for all competitions of the available sports
- Bet Builder
- Bet edit
- Cash-out
Pros | Cons |
✔️ Quality sports betting market | ❌ Limited Payment Options |
✔️ Competitive odds | ❌ Customer support reps could be slow to respond to queries |
✔️ Welcome bonus and other promotional offers | |
✔️ Various deposit and withdrawal methods | |
✔️ Excellent user interface |
Is betting legal in Kenya?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Kenya. The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) is the regulatory authority responsible for overseeing and licensing betting operators in the country. The Betting, Lotteries, and Gaming Act of 1966, along with subsequent amendments, provides the legal framework for gambling activities in Kenya.
However, it's worth noting that the Kenyan government has introduced several regulatory changes in recent years to address concerns related to gambling, including taxation and responsible gambling measures. These changes have resulted in the suspension or temporary closure of some companies in the past.
Betting winnings in Kenya are subject to taxation. The current tax rate on winnings is set at 20%, and operators are responsible for deducting and remitting the taxes on behalf of the winners.
To ensure a safe and legal betting experience, it's important to choose licensed and regulated bookmakers that comply with the regulations set by the BCLB.
How to Start Betting in Kenya
Follow the steps below to register and place your first bet in Kenya today:
- Choose a recommended sportsbook: Go through the reviews of our recommended sites and select one that appeals to you.
- Create an account: open the sign up form and enter your details, such as name, email address, residential address, date of birth, and phone number. Create a solid password, accept the T&Cs, and click "Create Account."
- Verify your account: Most bookmakers in Kenya will require you to verify your account by clicking a link sent to your inbox.
- Make a deposit: Deposit the qualifying amount to claim the welcome bonus. Go to the cashier, select a deposit option, specify the amount, and complete the transaction.
- Place a bet: Pick a sport from the main menu and identify a match you would like to bet on. Click your preferred market to add that selection to the bet slip. Finally, specify a bet amount and confirm your first wager.
Mobile betting in Kenya
All the top Kenyan bookmakers offer mobile app downloads for easy and convenient sports betting.
Bookmakers with Apps | For Android | For iOS | Mobile version | For PC |
22bet | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ❌ |
1xbet | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Melbet | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ❌ |
Betwinner | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ❌ |
1win | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Paripesa | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Vbet | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ❌ |
Megapari | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ❌ |
Sports Betting in Kenya
Country | Kenya |
Language | Swahili, English |
Local Currency | KSh (Kenyan shilling, KES) |
Popular sports | Football, Basketball |
Is betting legal? | Yes |
Regulator | Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) |
Gambling taxes | Yes |
Popular Payment Methods | Bank Transfer, MPesa |
Most Popular Sportsbooks | 1xBet, Betwinner, Melbet |
All betting sites in Kenya have one thing in common. They feature football in their betting options. Kenyans can bet on popular European Leagues. Whether it is EPL, Laliga, Bundesliga, Serie A, or any other top-level competition, players will get plenty of markets to pick from with odds they won't resist. Even better, local football fixture from the Kenyan Premier League sides are also available to bet on.
Other top sports events players prefer include:
- Basketball
- Tennis
- Rugby
- Baseball
- American football
- Handball
- Cricket
- Volleyball
- Virtual games
Now, before you jump in, it is advisable to know the type of wagers you can place when betting in Kenya:
- Full-Time Result
- Total Goals
- (Under/Over)
- Both Teams To Score (BTTS)
- Half-time/Full-Time (HT/FT)
- First Goal Scorer (FGS)
- Correct Score (CS)
- Double Chance (Away Win or Draw, Home Win or Draw, or Either Home or Away to Win) and more.
What are Betting Rules in Kenya?
The betting rules in Kenya are set and enforced by the BCLB, which is the regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the betting industry in the country. Here are some key rules and regulations in Kenya:
- To engage in betting activities, individuals must be 18 years or older. Bookmakers are required to verify the age and identity of their customers to ensure compliance with this rule.
- Best bookmakers in Kenya must obtain a valid license from the BCLB to operate legally. The license ensures that operators meet certain standards and guidelines set by the regulatory authority.
- Betting operators are required to promote responsible gambling practices and provide tools and resources to help customers gamble responsibly. This includes offering self-exclusion options, setting deposit limits, and providing access to support for individuals with gambling-related issues.
- Betting winnings in Kenya are subject to taxation. Operators are responsible for deducting and remitting the appropriate taxes on behalf of the winners. The current tax rate on winnings is set at 20%.
- Certain activities are prohibited in the betting industry in Kenya. This includes any form of fraud, match-fixing, or manipulation of betting outcomes. Bookmakers are required to take measures to prevent and report any suspicious activities.
- The BCLB works to ensure consumer protection. This includes ensuring fair and transparent bet practices, safeguarding customer funds, and addressing customer complaints and disputes.
Responsible Gambling
Responsible gambling and smart betting are your best bets for a good time. If you like to bet on sports on Kenyan betting sites, here is a list of crucial tips to help you ensure you are gambling responsibly:
- Keep a record of how much you wager, as well as your wins and losses.
- Don't bet with money you need to pay bills (e.g., rent, food, mortgage, etc.)
- Set limits on how much you bet on sports.
- Don't bet when you are feeling tired, anxious, and stressed.
- Avoid betting when intoxicated.
- Don't chase losses, as you can make desperate bets.
- Seek professional help if needed. There are various hotlines and organizations ready to support bettors experiencing gambling-related problems.
FAQ
Is sports betting legal in Kenya?
Yes, it is legal to bet on sports on most Kenyan betting sites. The activity is regulated by the BCLB, which grants and oversees the licensing and operation of gambling sites in Kenya.
What is the most popular sports betting site?
The sites featured on this page are all very popular in Kenya. Every one of them has quite a big following, but 1xBet and 22Bet take the lead.
What is the best football betting site in Kenya?
It isn't easy to pinpoint a specific site as the best, since this decision largely depends on personal preferences. We can only advise you to read our expert reviews of these sites and make your decision based on factors such as available sports markets, odds, bonuses, and more.
Which betting site has the lowest deposit?
Many gambling sites in Kenya accept deposits as low as KES 100, while some will go as low as KES 20. For example, bookies like Melbet and 22bet credit their welcome bonus on low deposits. This doesn't mean there will be a compromise on bonuses and reliability.
Is it safe to do online betting?
Yes. However, it is good to ensure that you are playing on a licensed and regulated sportsbook.
What are the most popular sports to bet on in Kenya?
Football is the king of sports betting in Kenya. Whether it is local matches or top international games, most bookies will have it on offer.
What are the betting restrictions on bookmaker sites in Kenya?
Several restrictions and regulations apply to betting sites operating within the country. However, the most notable is that only persons 18 years and older are legally allowed to engage in betting activities.