Following a ruling by the Kenyan Tax Appeals Tribunal in SportPesa’s favour, we proudly returned to the Kenyan market after a 16-month absence.

The decision overturned a controversial interpretation of the 20% withholding tax on betting, clarifying that the tax should apply only to net winnings rather than the original stake. This ruling restored fairness and stability to the industry, making it viable for SportPesa and other operators to resume operations.

In 2016, 2017 and 2018, SportPesa was recognised by the Kenya Revenue Authority as a top taxpayer for those years, highlighting the company’s contribution to the Kenyan economy. SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri welcomed the decision, calling the ruling “a significant development for both SportPesa and the wider betting sector in Kenya.”

The ruling reversed a previous government policy that had rendered the sector commercially and economically unviable, with a major, negative impact on jobs, local economies and sports in Kenya. “We have long advocated for a fair and level playing field and a regulatory and taxation environment that both supports business and inward investment, and is in the interests of Kenyan consumers,” Karauri added.

Our comeback had an immediate and far-reaching impact on Kenya’s economy and sporting ecosystem. The betting industry is a major contributor to tax revenue and employment, our operations once again provided livelihoods for thousands of Kenyan families.

We also reaffirmed our commitment to responsible gaming and community investment. Through CSR initiatives, we continued to fund education, health, and social welfare projects in Kenya, ensuring that our presence benefits society beyond the gaming industry.