Betika rewarded players after it held a friendly football tournament for Jua Kali artisans in Nairobi that from Friday, October 8, Sunday, October 10.
The betting giant, in partnership with the Unique Mechanical & Auto Artisans Welfare Society, launched the “Fundi Bingwa Cup” in early August 2021 to support and create opportunities for artisans and craftsmen in the Jua Kali sector.
The Fundi Bingwa tournament saw Langata Southland FC win the men’s category, taking home Ksh250,000 and Beijing Raiders win the women’s category taking home Ksh100,000.
Since its inception, the Betika Na Community initiative has reached hundreds of thousands of youths across the country by supporting them through sports, equipment, and direct financial support into their business ventures.
This year, Betika saw fit to support Jua Kali artisans such as masons, plumbers, electricians, mechanics among many others through sports by providing uniforms, financial support, kits, balls, and other sports equipment.
Apart from the sports equipment, Betika gave out 50 toolboxes and 10,000- litre air compressor spray guns that will be used to improve the trade of about 2,000 artisans.
“It was a very good weekend, and we are impressed by the number of artisans who play football during their free time. Through this initiative, we believe that we can influence positive change among the youth by creating an atmosphere of talent and skills development.
"We are proud of the Langata Southlands and the Beijing raiders teams who have won this year’s tournament. We are hoping to make it bigger and better next year," Jackie Tonui, the firm’s marketing Manager stated during the cheque presentation.
Jackie added that Kenyan youth have a wealth of talent and abilities that are untapped mainly due to the lack of opportunity and support. She reiterated that Betika is at the forefront and continues to invest in the youth by nurturing their talent through sports, arts and culture.
On his end, Kennedy Onyango, the National Chairman of Unique Mechanical & Auto Artisans Welfare Society, pointed out that Betika Na Community has come to change the lives of the youth.
"I am happy that this sector (Juakali) has finally got a chance to be beneficiaries of this noble initiative.
“I thank all the artisans who came out and made this tournament a success. I also thank Betika for the progress they have made in uplifting sport and supporting Kenya youth. The Jua Kali sector contributes immensely towards the Kenyan economy.