Kenya could soon introduce tougher legal measures to combat match fixing if a new Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026 currently before the National Assembly becomes law.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Nominated MP Irene Nyakerario Mayaka, aims to criminalise the manipulation of sporting competitions and strengthen institutions responsible for protecting the integrity of sports in the country.
If passed, the law will provide the first comprehensive legal framework to tackle match manipulation, a growing concern in both local and international sporting competitions.
How the Bill defines match manipulation
One of the key provisions of the proposed law is a clear definition of what constitutes manipulation of a sports competition.
Under the Bill, match fixing will include actions such as offering or receiving bribes to influence the outcome of a game, deliberately underperforming to alter results, conspiring to manipulate matches, or using insider information for betting purposes.
The proposed definition is intended to close legal loopholes that have previously made it difficult to prosecute offenders.
Lawmakers say the change will ensure that fair play becomes not only a sporting value but also a legal requirement.
How investigations into match fixing will be handled
The Bill also proposes expanding the role of Sports Kenya, giving the agency authority to receive and investigate reports of suspected match manipulation.
Sports Kenya will be required to work with other regulatory and law enforcement agencies to ensure investigations are carried out effectively.
To prevent cases from dragging on for years, the legislation proposes that investigations into suspected manipulation must be completed within six months.
This timeline is expected to speed up the handling of cases and improve accountability within sports organisations.
How disputes will be resolved
Another major provision in the Bill is the expansion of the Sports Disputes Tribunal’s jurisdiction.
Athletes, clubs, officials and other stakeholders who are dissatisfied with decisions made by Sports Kenya on match-fixing cases will be able to appeal to the tribunal.
This move aims to create a structured dispute resolution mechanism within the sports sector while ensuring fairness and transparency in disciplinary processes.
Experts say the measure will help address complaints without resorting to lengthy court battles.
How offenders could be punished
The proposed legislation introduces strict penalties for individuals and organisations found guilty of manipulating sporting competitions.
Offenders could face a fine of up to Sh1 million, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
Professional athletes, clubs and officials involved in match fixing may also face additional disciplinary sanctions including match forfeitures, suspensions from competitions or lifetime bans from regulated sporting events.
The Bill further states that any money or financial benefit gained from manipulating matches will be confiscated by the state.
Why the Bill is considered necessary
Kenya’s sports sector has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years due to allegations of match fixing, particularly in football and athletics.
Authorities have warned that international betting syndicates have been targeting athletes and clubs in developing sports markets.
Supporters of the proposed law say stronger legal protections are needed to safeguard the credibility of competitions and protect athletes from exploitation.
If enacted, the Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026 is expected to strengthen transparency and accountability in Kenyan sports while ensuring that victories are determined by skill and performance rather than manipulation.
 Bill, 2026 seeks to curb match fixing and protect the integrity of Kenyan sports.){kind=link}