Betting firm SportPesa has announced a return to the country’s betting scene after more than a year out.
The betting firm’s CEO Captain Ronald Karauri, while announcing their return to operation in the country, said the company will now operate under a new BCLB licence.
“SportPesa is back! I’m happy to announce that the SportPesa brand is back under a new BCLB licence holder, ” tweeted Captain Karauri.
Mr Karauri said SportPesa will uphold the highest standards of service and responsible gaming, adding that they are ready to work closely with BCLB and all other stakeholders in the gaming industry.
Further, he pointed out that the firm will explore partnerships in the country with the aim of promoting development of sports in communities in the country.
“As market leaders, SportPesa will focus on upholding the highest standards of service and responsible gaming. We look forward to working closely with BCLB and all other stakeholders,” said the CEO.
” We are excited to explore a wide range of partnerships in Kenya over the coming weeks and months, which will prioritise the development of sports in communities across our great country,” he added.
SportPesa was among 27 betting firms that had their trading licenses revoked by the government due to failure in meeting tax compliance policies in July, 2019.
Two months later, the betting firm was cleared by the Kenya Revenue Authority making it viable to reacquire its licence.
SportPesa will now join at least 10 other companies which are currently operating in the country. They include Betway, 22bet, Mozzart Bet, Odi Bets, Eastleigh Bet, Lucky to you, Ken bookmakers, Bet boss, Kick off, Easi bet and Palms bet.
They will also have to contend with other high ticket contender like betsafe who are launching soon and are also the current new sponsors of Gor Mahia and AFC but who are yet to indicate their actual laucn date but which is expected to be around when the Kenya premier league restarts.
SportPesa shut down operations in Kenya in September last year citing heavy taxation following the government’s move to impose a 20 percent withholding tax on all winning bets.
Prior to its exit from the country, the betting firms sponsored the Kenyan Premier League , Kenya’s domestic top tier club competition, the national football teams Harambee Stars and Harambee Starlets.
It was also a shirt sponsor of Kenya Sevens Rugby team, Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards as well as Nakuru All Stars, a second division team.
SportPesa has footprints in Tanzania, South Africa, Italy, Ireland, the Isle of Man and the United Kingdom.
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