Local football clubs get Sh6.7 million boost from betPawa

BetPawa team during equipment donation to local football teams/HANDOUT

At least 575 football players from 25 teams across Kenya are set to benefit from a Sh6.7 million sports development initiative by betting firm betPawa.

The firm has distributed full playing kits and training equipment to the teams in a move aimed at strengthening grassroots football development across the country.

The donation targets both men’s and women’s teams, reflecting a growing emphasis on inclusivity in sports. Each player will receive a complete kit comprising jerseys, shorts and socks.

In addition, every team has been allocated four match balls, bringing the total number distributed to 100. The package also includes 575 training bibs and 75 pairs of goalkeeper gloves.

The initiative is expected to ease the burden on community teams that often struggle to access basic equipment, a challenge that continues to affect player development and performance in many parts of the country.

“We have initiatives that align with supporting sports in the markets where we operate, including Kenya,” said betPawa Head of Local Marketing and CSR, Borah Ndanyungu.

“We want to support grassroots football and help players compete with confidence because talent is everywhere, but access is limited. We want to bridge that gap by providing equipment that will help these teams train and compete,” she added.

betPawa Country Manager Mogere Crispus said the company intends to maintain long-term engagement with the teams.

“Today is a great day as we support grassroots football. We do not just donate and leave; we will look for ways to continue supporting these teams to ensure sustainability,” he said.

Crispus also raised concerns about illegal gambling operators, saying they negatively affect licensed firms.

“One of the biggest challenges in Kenya is illegal gaming and gambling, which continues to stain licensed operators like us. However, I believe the regulator is actively addressing the issue,” he added.

Among the beneficiary teams are Maungu All Stars FC, Majengo FC, Mwendo FC, Kisii Wazee FC, Kapkorech Starlet, St Josephus Nakuru, Maringo United, Masimba Queens, Lugusi FC, Youngboys FC, Livewire FC, Panga FC, Black Stallion FC, UNESCO FC, Kangeta Youth FC, Kangami FC, Gategi Ladies, HCE FC, Falcon Queens, Arrows of Kajembe Starlets, Atletico Kangemi SC, Kibagare Girls FC, Kick It Kenya FC, Shimanzi FC and Nyanturago Town Boys FC.

Jacob Kithinji, a team manager representing some of the beneficiary teams from Tharaka Nithi County, welcomed the support, describing it as a major boost for grassroots football.

“The jerseys are of very high quality and we sincerely thank the sponsors,” he said.

“When teams are empowered, players become more motivated. Grassroots teams face many challenges, including financial constraints and lack of proper playing kits.”

His sentiments were echoed by Hassan Omondi, chairman of HCE FC from Homa Bay County.

“It is a great opportunity for us. The equipment betPawa has given our players is impressive and it will motivate the team to take the game more seriously,” he said.

betPawa Head of Responsible Gaming Olabimpe Akingba said responsible gambling remains central to the company’s operations.

“Responsible gaming means ensuring that people bet responsibly and understand that betting is for entertainment, not a means of wealth creation,” she said.

By providing standardised playing and training equipment, the initiative is expected to improve team organisation, enhance match preparedness and create a more professional environment for players.

The investment adds to a growing number of corporate-backed initiatives aimed at supporting grassroots sports development beyond elite competitions.