This archive report was first published on 2 November 2019.
On November 2, 2019, Betika, a Kenyan betting firm, launched a countrywide program to promote community development and encourage sporting culture among youth.
The program, dubbed 'Betika na Community,' aims to engage the public and key stakeholders in promoting community development and sporting culture among youth.
Addressing the press at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos, John Mbatia, the firm's head of commercial, said the company will seek to promote arts and culture, which are emerging avenues for youth talent development.
According to Mbatia, the countrywide initiative will see the company spend millions of shillings towards supporting local and mainstream sports through sponsorships and providing kits, balls, sports equipment, facilitation, and financial support.
"As Betika, we believe we can influence positive change among the youth through creating an atmosphere of talents and skills development in sports as well as in the components of the arts and culture," said Mbatia.
The program will be undertaken in all 47 counties, with Machakos County being the pioneer ground. The company has partnered with Sofapaka to provide trials and access to professional training to upcoming talents.
The football tournament, which brings together 16 teams from the county, will be a key component of the program.
