The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has issued a ban on social media influencer Joseph Kairo Wambui, widely known as Khalif Kairo, from running promotions offering free vehicles.
The Board’s statement, released on November 12, clarified that such promotions are in violation of the Betting, Lotteries, and Gaming Act, Cap. 131 of the Laws of Kenya.
According to the BCLB, Kairo’s company had been conducting illegal giveaways, including a recent promotion in collaboration with Payless Africa, where a 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer was offered as a prize.
The Board has ordered Kairo to immediately cease all such promotions unless they are properly authorized.
“The Board has noted that your company has been conducting illegal promotions contrary to the Betting, Lotteries, and Gaming Act Cap. 131, Laws of Kenya.
One such promotion is the recently concluded ‘win a 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer’ campaign, which you were running in partnership with Payless Africa,” the BCLB statement read.
“You are therefore advised to cease conducting such illegal promotions with immediate effect and ensure authorization from the Board for any future promotions.”
In response, Kairo expressed his frustration with the ruling, humorously commenting, “Hehe, Hata kupeana gari za bure tena ni shida,” which loosely translates to, “Hehe, even giving away free cars is a problem nowadays.”
Despite the ban, Kairo made it clear that he would not stop his charitable gestures, stating that he plans to visit the BCLB to ensure his future promotions comply with the law.
Recent Car Giveaway Sparks Attention
Kairo has gained significant attention for his generous acts, including his recent car giveaways.
Just before the BCLB’s intervention, Kairo, through his Kai and Karo dealership, partnered with Payless Africa, a new player in the mobile money transfer industry, to reward loyal users with a brand-new Mitsubishi Lancer.
The recipient, Patrick, a student at Kabete Polytechnic, went from walking to driving after winning the car in a seemingly chance encounter.
While going about his daily routine, Patrick was approached by Kairo, who asked if he had the Payless app installed on his phone. Upon confirmation, Kairo handed him the keys to a brand-new car.
Public Reaction to BCLB’s Ruling
The BCLB’s action has sparked mixed reactions on social media. On X (formerly Twitter), user Nellard pointed out that promotions and corporate gifts are subject to legal regulations and taxes, while another user, Rogers, expressed concerns about excessive regulations stifling progress, saying, “Tonnes of regulation will destroy any country!”
As Kairo continues to be a prominent figure in Kenya’s influencer and business scene, the outcome of this legal confrontation may set a precedent for how social media promotions are handled in the future.
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