Comedian Eric Omondi has angered many many Kenyans after launching his own betting platform dubbed BetKali.
Omondi held a press conference on Friday, December 19, to announce the official opening of his betting site, a move that has sparked mixed reactions online.
During the launch, the comedian and philanthropist disclosed that he decided to launch the betting company to generate enough money to support Kenyans through his Sisi Kwa Sisi Initiative.
According to Omondi, he conceived the idea after failing to secure partners and sponsors to fund humanitarian activities through the Sisi Kwa Sisi Initiative.
He stated that 20% of the profits from the BetKali platform will be donated to the Sisi Kwa Sisi Initiative to support CSR activities.
The comic posted a video of the presser, followed by the caption:
“Today marks a major milestone as I officially launch my own betting company, BetKali, not just as a business, but as a mission. BetKali was built with purpose at heart. Through this platform, we will work hand in hand with the Sisi Kwa Sisi initiative, committing 20% of our profits to sustain and grow our CSR activities. This journey is about changing lives, giving back, and proving that business can truly be a force for good. Bet smart. Bet responsibly. Win big. Give back.”
While some fans and Kenyans lauded the move, many disagreed, arguing that launching a betting platform was a bad idea.
Several netizens criticised him for launching something that could lead more Kenyan youths to poverty, depression, and early deaths.
According to his critics, he should have launched a different venture that they could support unconditionally, instead of a betting platform.
Here are some comments from netizens:
Winny Masai wrote:
“I was expecting you to give us direction on 2027, Sasa betting???”
Maureen Lumbasi said:
“Dear lord protect my husband’s wallet.”
Johnes Chacha posted:
“Betting is taking youth to permanent poverty ericko, afadhali ungefungua Sisi Kwa Sisi foundation to be funded by Kenyans.”
Wuod Nyalego wrote:
“Panguza machozi kwanza, lakini kubet nae zii tuliachia wakina kamau.”
Shii Tasha wrote:
“Mumeamua vijana wasikae na hata king’otore kwa mfuko?”
Jackson Gacheche posted:
“Hapa mimi ndio kidogo hatutashirikiana.”
Despite the backlash, Omondi is yet to respond.
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