Betika has had to postpone a friendly football tournament for Jua Kali artisans in Nairobi that was scheduled to take place from the 6th to the 8th of August 2021 due to the increase in covid cases in the country. Betika in
partnership with the Unique Mechanical & Auto Artisans Welfare Society launched the “Fundi Bingwa Cup” in an effort to support and create opportunities for artisans and craftsmen in the Jua Kali sector.
Since 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 it fit to support JuaKali 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 will also be giving toolboxes and 5,000-litre air compressors painting spray guns that will be used to improve the trade of about 2000 artisans from Likoni, Rabai Road, Shimo la Tewa, Baricho , Buruburu and many other groups. The Fundi Bingwa tournament will see the top 3 teams take home a sum of Ksh 500,000, with the winners getting Ksh 250,000, Ksh 150,000 for the 1st runners up and Ksh 100,000 for the 2nd runners up. “We were all geared up for the tournament last weekend, however due to the covid restrictions we had to postpone the tournament. As a responsible betting company, the welfare of our people is important to us and that is why we have slotted the tournament to take place immediately the covid regulations allow. We were surprised by the amount of football talent that is hidden within these artisans and to learn that they already have established football teams among them. They play frequently 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 foresee a long-term relationship with Jua Kali sector to ensure that the artisans are mentored to perfect their skills. The Jua Kali sector has recently transformed into a haven for many young people
and Betika wants to empower them further. Just like football, you learn Jua Kali through observation and practice.” Mr Eric Mwiti, the firm’s Senior Brand Manager said during the launch. “Our Kenyan youth have a wealth of talent and abilities that are untapped mainly due to lack of opportunity and support. Betika is at the forefront and continues to invest in the youth by nurturing their talent through sports, arts and culture”, Said Mwiti.
The company has held several tournaments across the country since launching the first Betika Na Community tournament in Machakos on 3rd November 2019. They plan to take similar tournaments to all the 47 counties in Kenya.
The Fundi Bingwa Tournament will be held at Madaraka Stadium at a later date and will see over 16 teams compete for the cash prizes. “I am happy with the progress Betika has made in uplifting sport and supporting Kenya youth. The Jua Kali sector contributes immensely towards the Kenyan economy. Betika are very wise in supporting this sector as it has rescued many young people from the dark side of unemployment. Betika Na Community has come to change the lives of the youth and I am happy that this sector has finally got a chance to be beneficiaries of this noble initiative.” said Kennedy Onyango, the National chairman of Unique Mechanical & Auto Artisans Welfare Society
