This archive report was first published on 23 October 2019.
October 23, 2019
Since the government's crackdown on betting companies in July, the industry has been working to adapt to the new regulations. One of the remaining betting companies, Odibets, has taken a proactive approach to promoting safer gambling among Kenyans.
At an event to unveil their top winners, Odibets' country marketing manager, Aggrey Sayi, revealed that the company's kit sponsorship initiative is still ongoing, despite the challenges posed by the crackdown.
According to Sayi, the company is 'delighted' with the success of the first phase of their 35,000 kits initiative and is committed to building on this momentum in the new phase.
Odibets has acknowledged the role that sports betting firms play in promoting healthy betting behavior among the youth and has pledged to abide by the rules and regulations set by the government through the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB).
After the crackdown, the company dropped its shirt sponsorship deal with Mathare United due to the massive tax burden. However, Odibets is reinventing its sponsorship strategy to benefit more local communities, citing initiatives in areas like Vihiga, Rongai, and the Rift Valley.
With the departure of major players like SportPesa and Betin Kenya, Odibets is among the betting firms that have moved to take up sports development in the country. The company's new initiative is a step in the right direction towards promoting responsible gambling practices.
