Best Betting Sites in Kenya: Reviews, Comparison, and Features for Kenyan Punters
Kenya has a thriving and competitive gambling market. Local players can choose from a range of local and international gambling brands. Finding the best betting site in Kenya means looking at payment options like M-Pesa and Airtel Money, bonuses, the range of markets, and securing gambling licenses. This guide aims to present you a fair analysis of Kenya’s top betting websites to help you make a choice that best fits your needs and preferences.

Best Betting Sites in Kenya: A Quick Comparison
The table below provides a snapshot of the most popular and highly-rated betting sites in Kenya. These operators stand out for their robust platforms, competitive odds, and localization efforts, such as direct support for Kenyan Shilling (KES) and mobile money options.
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1.Mozzartbet ![]()
Welcome Bonus
20% Free Bet up to KES 2,000 |
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2.22Bet ![]()
Welcome Bonus
100% up to KES 19,000 |
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3.1xBet ![]()
Welcome Bonus
200% up to KES 20,000 |
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4.HelaBet ![]()
Welcome Bonus
100% up to KES 10,000 |
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5.1win ![]()
Welcome Bonus
500% on first four deposits |
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6.Betwinner ![]()
Welcome Bonus
100% up to KES 15,000 |
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7.Melbet ![]()
Welcome Bonus
200% up to KES 20,000 |
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8.Dafabet ![]()
Welcome Bonus
50% up to KES 1,000 |
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9.BC Game ![]()
Welcome Bonus
Multi-Tier Crypto Bonus |
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10.Lucky Star ![]()
Welcome Bonus
500% up to KES 44,000 |
Essential Features of Top Betting Sites in Kenya
When evaluating a betting site, the successful ones operating in Kenya share a core set of features that cater directly to the local market’s needs. These are the elements that separate a functional platform from the best betting site for betting in the region.
- Localized Payments: Mandatory support for M-Pesa and Airtel Money for instant KES transactions;
- Regulatory Compliance: Holding a license from the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) ensures legality, security, and adherence to Kenyan law;
- Mobile Optimisation: High-quality mobile apps or perfectly optimized mobile sites are essential for Kenya’s mobile-first user base;
- Market Diversity: While football is core, top sites offer extensive coverage of basketball, rugby, eSports, and virtual sports, alongside competitive odds;
- Key Betting Tools: Features like Live Betting (In-Play), Cash Out, and Bet Builders enhance the user experience and give punters more control over their wagers.
Sports Betting on Betting Sites in Kenya
Among all sports in Kenya, football is the most popular, even when it comes to sports betting. However, all the top betting websites will provide other types of sports to bet on. The most distinguishing features of excellent sportsbook quality is the offering of competitive odds, as well as the betting options on different local and international football leagues.
| Sport Category | Popular Leagues/Events | Recommended Sites for this Sport | Key Betting Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Football (Soccer) | English Premier League (EPL), La Liga, UEFA Champions League, Kenyan Premier League (KPL) | 1xBet, Mozzartbet, 22Bet | 1X2, Over/Under Goals, First Goalscorer |
| Basketball | NBA, EuroLeague, Local Leagues | 22Bet, Betwinner | Handicap, Total Points (Over/Under), Quarter Betting |
| Tennis | Grand Slams (Wimbledon, US Open), ATP/WTA Tours | Melbet, Dafabet | Match Winner, Total Games, Set Betting |
| eSports | Dota 2, League of Legends, CS:GO | 1win, BC Game | Match Winner, Map Handicap, First Blood/Tower |
| Rugby | Rugby Sevens World Series, Six Nations, Super Rugby | Mozzartbet, 1xBet | Margin of Victory, Match Winner |
| Virtual Sports | Virtual Football League, Virtual Horse Racing | HelaBet, Lucky Star | Match Result, Exact Score |
The Top 10 Betting Sites in Kenya: Detailed Review
A deeper look at the recommended betting sites provides clarity on their specific strengths, helping players make an informed decision on their best site for betting.
Mozzartbet
Mozzartbet is one of the most prominent Kenya betting sites, known for its massive Daily Jackpots which frequently exceed KES 10 million. It is a BCLB-licensed operator that focuses heavily on football and a strong retail presence, backing its digital operations with tangible trust. Their “Mozzart Bet Happy Monday Bonus” is a key retention promotion.
22Bet
22Bet is a globally recognized platform offering an unparalleled betting experience in Kenya. It excels with high odds—often better than competitors—across thousands of markets daily. Its strength is its sheer volume: over 50 sports, instant M-Pesa transactions, and a very competitive welcome bonus that immediately boosts a new player’s bankroll.
1xBet
The 1xBet betting site is a titan in the industry, offering maximum possibilities for the serious bettor. It is often cited as a top betting website due to its market depth, which includes unique and niche betting options, high-definition live streaming, and a massive 200% welcome bonus. The platform supports a vast array of global and local payment methods.
HelaBet
HelaBet is a mobile-focused and locally adapted platform. It offers a fast, no-frills betting experience ideal for those using older or lower-spec smartphones. It consistently receives praise for its simple registration and the efficiency of its M-Pesa payouts, making it a reliable betting site for everyday punters.
1win
1win is rapidly growing in popularity, driven by one of the most generous welcome offers in the market: a 500% bonus across the first four deposits. This aggressive promotion, combined with a clean, modern interface and excellent coverage of eSports and casino games, positions it as an attractive option, particularly for younger, bonus-hunting players.
Betwinner
Betwinner offers a comprehensive, all-in-one gambling platform. It’s a versatile choice known for its Bet Builder feature, allowing punters to create customized, high-odds multi-bets within a single match. Its wide selection of ongoing promotions, including reload bonuses and accumulator boosts, ensures existing users are well-catered for.
Melbet
Melbet is a top contender among the best betting sites in Kenya for its huge coverage of events and high-value bonuses, often mirroring the offerings of 1xBet and Betwinner but with a distinct user interface. Its 24/7 customer service and combined sports/casino welcome package make it an excellent choice for diverse gaming needs.
Dafabet
Dafabet is an internationally renowned betting site with a strong reputation for reliability and security. While its welcome bonus may seem smaller, it often comes with more favourable wagering requirements. It’s a trusted brand for players prioritising a dependable platform and a clean, professionally run sportsbook.
BC Game
BC Game stands out as a market innovator, specifically catering to the growing demographic interested in cryptocurrency betting. While it accepts KES via mobile money, its primary feature is the ability to deposit and bet using dozens of cryptocurrencies, coupled with a highly complex and potentially massive multi-tier welcome bonus.
Lucky Star
Lucky Star aims for simplicity and a friendly user experience, making it a great entry point for new bettors. It provides a generous 500% welcome bonus to help beginners start with a large bankroll. Its combination of a user-friendly design and support for local payment methods makes it a highly accessible betting site in Kenya.
How to start betting in Kenya?
Starting your journey on the Kenya betting sites is straightforward, thanks to the localized registration and deposit processes. You can usually register and deposit in a matter of minutes, and in most cases, you can do everything from your mobile phone.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Choose a Licensed Betting Site: Select one of the reliable and BCLB-compliant betting sites in Kenya (e.g., Mozzartbet, 22Bet, 1xBet). Prioritise security and a good welcome bonus;
- Registration: Navigate to the site’s homepage and click the “Register” or “Sign Up” button. You will typically only need to provide your Kenyan mobile number and a preferred password. Some sites, like 1xBet, offer one-click registration;
- Account Verification: The site will usually send an SMS code to the registered mobile number. Enter this code to verify your account, completing the sign-up process;
- Make a Deposit (Via M-Pesa):
- Log in to your account;
- Go to the “Deposit” or “Payments” section;
- Note the operator’s official M-Pesa Paybill Number and the required Account Number (often your registered phone number);
- Go to your M-Pesa menu, select “Lipa Na M-Pesa,” then “Pay Bill”;
- Enter the Paybill Number, the Account Number, and the amount you wish to deposit (usually KES 100 minimum);
- Confirm with your M-Pesa PIN. The funds should reflect instantly on your chosen betting site in Kenya.
- Place Your Bet: Navigate the sportsbook, select your preferred sport (e.g., football), choose a league, and click on the odds for your desired outcome. This adds the selection to your bet slip. Enter your stake amount (in KES) and click “Place Bet.”
Deposit and Withdrawal Methods on Betting Sites in Kenya
Offering local payment methods helps provide a positive user experience. For your convenience, we have listed the different payment systems across the leading betting sites in Kenya, giving priority to the most important mobile money options.
| Betting Site | M-Pesa Support | Airtel Money Support | Cards/E-Wallets/Crypto Support | Key Payment Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mozzartbet | ✅ | ❌ | Cards (Visa/MasterCard) | Focus on simplicity via M-Pesa Paybill |
| 22Bet | ✅ | ✅ | Visa, MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto | Wide variety of fast international e-wallets |
| 1xBet | ✅ | ✅ | Visa, MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto, Bank Transfer | Supports the most extensive range of methods |
| HelaBet | ✅ | ✅ | Visa, MasterCard | Excellent local mobile money processing |
| 1win | ✅ | ❌ | Visa, MasterCard, Crypto | Crypto deposits are a major option |
| Betwinner | ✅ | ✅ | Visa, MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto | High flexibility with both local and global methods |
| Melbet | ✅ | ✅ | Visa, MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto | Reliable support for most major global e-wallets |
| Dafabet | ✅ | ❌ | Visa, MasterCard | Focuses on reliable local bank card and M-Pesa use |
| BC Game | ✅ | ❌ | Crypto (Dozens) | Specializes in blockchain/cryptocurrency payments |
| Lucky Star | ✅ | ✅ | Visa, MasterCard | User-friendly for basic mobile money transactions |
Bonuses and Promotions on Betting Sites in Kenya
One of the most important factors for new players when selecting the top betting site is bonuses. Below is a table that offers a side-by-side comparison of the welcome bonuses available for each site as well as the variety of other promotions each site provides.
| Betting Site | Welcome Bonus (KES) | Bonus Type | Key Recurring Promotions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mozzartbet | Free Bet up to KES 2,000 | Free Bet / Match | Daily Jackpots, Happy Monday Bonus, Mozzart Refund |
| 22Bet | 100% up to KES 19,000 | Matched Deposit | Friday Reload Bonus, Weekly Rebate/Cashback, Accumulator Boost |
| 1xBet | 200% up to KES 20,000 | Matched Deposit | Hyper Bonus, Accumulator of the Day, Advancebet, Birthday Free Bets |
| HelaBet | 100% up to KES 10,000 | Matched Deposit | Accumulator Bonuses, Cashback Offers |
| 1win | 500% (High Max Value) | Multi-Deposit Match | Casino Cashback, Leaderboard Prizes, Express Bonus |
| Betwinner | 100% up to KES 15,000 | Matched Deposit | Advancebet, Loyalty Program, Birthday Bonus, Bet Builder Promos |
| Melbet | 200% up to KES 20,000 | Matched Deposit | Go For Longer, Fast Games Day, Free Bet Offers |
| Dafabet | 50% up to KES 1,000 | Matched Deposit | Refer-a-Friend, Loyalty Rewards |
| BC Game | High Value (Tiered) | Crypto/Matched Deposit | Shitcodes, Rain Bonus, Task Bonuses (Innovative Crypto promos) |
| Lucky Star | 500% up to KES 44,000 | Multi-Deposit Match | Cashback, Reload Bonuses, Daily Missions |
Legality of betting sites in Kenya
Betting in Kenya is fully legal and regulated. The industry falls under the jurisdiction of the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), established under the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act (Cap 131 of the Laws of Kenya).
- Licensing: The BCLB is responsible for issuing licenses to both local and international operators. A license ensures that the betting site meets strict operational, financial, and fairness criteria;
- Player Security: Using a BCLB-licensed operator is the safest choice, as it guarantees a local recourse for disputes and ensures compliance with Kenyan consumer protection laws;
- Taxation: Operators are required to deduct the 20% Withholding Tax (WHT) on net winnings before transferring the money to a punter’s mobile money account.
Conclusion
The market for betting sites in Kenya is highly competitive, resulting in exceptional choices for the average punter. The best betting site ultimately depends on individual priorities:
- For the widest array of options and the largest bonuses, 1xBet and 22Bet are the leaders;
- For trust and huge jackpot potential, Mozzartbet is an excellent local choice;
- For simplicity and fast mobile money transactions, operators like HelaBet excel.
Before placing your bets, make sure that your selected betting site in Kenya has a valid BCLB license, and don’t forget to gamble in moderation. Kenyan bettors can guarantee a safe and satisfying localized betting experience by selecting any of the premium sites highlighted here.
FAQ
Is online betting legal in Kenya?
Is online betting legal in Kenya?
Yes, online betting is legal and regulated in Kenya by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB).
Which is the best betting site in Kenya for a beginner?
Which is the best betting site in Kenya for a beginner?
Lucky Star or HelaBet are often considered the best betting sites in Kenya for beginners due to their simple interfaces and easy M-Pesa integration.
Do I have to pay tax on my winnings from betting sites Kenya?
Do I have to pay tax on my winnings from betting sites Kenya?
Yes, a 20% Withholding Tax (WHT) on net winnings is deducted by the betting site before your withdrawal is processed.
Which payment methods are used for deposit and withdrawal on Kenya betting sites?
Which payment methods are used for deposit and withdrawal on Kenya betting sites?
The most common and popular methods for both deposit and withdrawal are M-Pesa and Airtel Money.
Which betting sites in Kenya offer the highest welcome bonus?
Which betting sites in Kenya offer the highest welcome bonus?
Sites like 1win (500% tiered bonus) and 1xBet (200% up to KES 20,000) offer the largest initial welcome bonus amounts.


















