SportPesa has returned to the Kenyan market a year after the government forced it to wind up its operation in the country’s betting scene.
The betting firm seized operating in Kenya in September 2019 after the government imposed stringent measures to regulate gambling.
SportPesa had a run-in with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) who accused the betting firm of failing to meet tax compliance policies.
The firm also bitterly contested the government’s decision to impose a 20% withholding tax on all winning bets.
SportPesa ultimately opted to shut down its operations in Kenya saying the business was no longer tenable under such heavy taxation.
On Friday, October 30th, SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri announced the return of the betting firm’s operations in the country, saying that the firm will now operate under a new Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) licence.
“SportPesa is back! I’m happy to announce that the SportPesa brand is back under a new BCLB licence holder, ” tweeted Karauri.
Adding that;
“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.”
SportPesa is back! I’m happy to announce that the SportPesa brand is back under a new BCLB license holder. https://t.co/qDIJ37kP3b #SportPesaisBack 🇰🇪🇰🇪🇰🇪🇰🇪
— Capt. Ronald Karauri (@KarauriR) October 30, 2020
We are excited to explore a wide range of partnerships in Kenya over the coming weeks and months, which will prioritize the development of sports in communities across our Great Country!
— Capt. Ronald Karauri (@KarauriR) October 30, 2020
Karauri also announced SportPesa’s priorities as the firm returns to Kenya, saying that they will focus on the development of sports in communities across in the coming weeks and months.
SportPesa used to sponsor several sports activities in the country before its exit, it sponsored Kenya Premier League giants Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, as well as the Kenya Sevens Rugby team.
