Shabana chairman reveals role betting firms have had in development of Kenyan football

The Kenyan football stakeholders, especially top-tier clubs, have, for a long time, been castigated for failing to convince non-betting companies to invest in the game. 

Kenyan football has literally lived under the mercy of betting firms, who have been pumping finances to clubs, competitions and the Football Kenya Federation.

The Football Kenya Federation Cup is sponsored by Mozzart Bet while the top tier is yet to attract a new title sponsor since the exit of Betking in 2021. 

Record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia, their bitter rivals AFC Leopards, Cup champions Kenya Police, Shabana, Kakamega Homeboyz and Murang'a Seal, all enjoy sponsorship from betting firms.

SportPesa sponsors three teams; Gor Mahia, Seal and Shabana while Betika pumps money to both Leopards and Police. Mozzart Bet has a partnership with Homeboyz.

Shabana, cut ties with BangBet, and joined the SportPesa fraternity on Thursday after entering into a three-year deal worth Kshs. 75 million with the giant firm.

 Consequently, Shabana, who are preparing for the second season in the top tier since regaining promotion last year, will be getting Ksh. 25 million per season.

While it remains important for local clubs to find alternative sources of funding, Shabana chairman Jared Nivaton, insists that the impact betting firms have had in Kenyan football cannot be ignored.

Speaking after the unveiling ceremony with SportPesa, Nivaton was quick to note the struggle teams have faced before due to lack of funding and thus, partnership from betting companies shouldn't be frowned at.

It is a global thing

Image Credits: Shabana FC

Nivaton argued that Kenyan clubs and football are not the sole beneficiaries of betting partnerships in the world as it appears to be portrayed by those against proceeds of gaming being invested in the game.

He said betting firms had made significant inroads in nearly all leagues across the world and partnered with some of the biggest clubs.

"It is a global phenomenon. If you look at the English Premier League and other competitions around the world, you will spot betting firms," he said.

SportPesa deal good for Shabana

Having nailed down a new sponsor, Nivaton expressed optimism in Shabana flourishing in the 2024-2025 season.

The Glamour Boys spent the better part of last season fighting relegation and would survive in the closing stages following the strong finish.

Nivaton says having a stable sponsor will go a long way in ensuring the community will compete fairly in the season.

"SportPesa is a stable partner and the three-year deal assures us of support which is key to good performance. Of course we are casting our net deeper for more partnerships," he added.

Coach Pamzo welcomes SportPesa deal 

 Nivaton's school thought was backed by coach Sammy 'Pamzo' Omollo who promised to deliver good results in the new season.