MCK Calls on Media to Observe Advertising Regulations

Nairobi, Tuesday May 23, 2023

KNA by Bernadette Khaduli

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged journalists, media practitioners and media enterprises to observe advertisement regulations when advertising and promoting gaming activities on media platforms.

Chief Executive Officer and Secretary to the Council David Omwoyo said MCK has noted with concern the continued increase in advertisement and promotion of gaming activities on media platforms while disregarding the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) regulations.

“Only promotions and advertisements of gaming activities entities that have been licensed by the Betting Control and Licensing Board should be aired on the platforms,” advised Omwoyo.

BCLB is mandated to license entities engaged in gaming activities including lotteries, betting and gambling.

In a press statement sent to newsrooms, the CEO stressed that those advertising must observe the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya specifically Clause 4(3) and Clause 5 when advertising or promoting gaming activities on media platforms.

He said the Media Council Act, 2013 mandates the Council to set media standards and regulate and monitor compliance with the same, adding that the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya requires journalists, media practitioners and enterprises to write fair, accurate and unbiased stories on matters of public interest.

Omwoyo said the advisory has been issued in public interest to protect investors and to ensure the highest standards of media practice in relation to advertisements of gaming activities on media platforms.

Courtesy; K.N.A