BCLB Commends Bangbet’s ‘Changing Lives’ Launch as a Model for Responsible Corporate Giving

Nairobi, Kenya – The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has hailed Bangbet Kenya’s newly launched Changing Lives – Powered by Bangbet initiative as a shining example of corporate responsibility in action, urging other licensed gaming operators to follow suit in uplifting communities and strengthening Kenya’s social fabric.

The remarks were made during a well-attended launch event held on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Lord Erroll Gardens in Runda. The ceremony was graced by stakeholders from healthcare, media, government, and the private sector, with the main agenda being the formal unveiling of two major community impact interventions by Bangbet.

Speaking at the event, Rev. Dr. Jane Mwikali Makau, Chairperson of the BCLB, praised the company’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship. “We are gathered here today to witness a remarkable gesture of compassion and corporate responsibility,” she said. “Bangbet Ltd has committed Ksh 1,000,000 in support of needy patients and new mothers at St. Mary’s Hospital who have been unable to pay their hospital bills. This noble act is a shining example of the kind of impact we expect and encourage from all licensed operators.”

The launch of the Bangbet Hospital Support Fund is one of the core pillars of the Changing Lives initiative. The fund is designed to support patients—particularly new mothers and road accident victims—who have been medically cleared for discharge but remain detained in hospitals due to outstanding medical bills.

Bangbet’s decision to initiate the program was heavily influenced by a recent outreach at St. Mary’s Hospital, where its team encountered urgent, real-world needs in the healthcare sector.

Sister Dr. Rose Nafula, CEO of St. Mary’s Hospital, expressed gratitude for the financial support provided by Bangbet. “We are truly overwhelmed by this act of compassion. Many of our patients are hardworking Kenyans who simply need a little help to get back on their feet. The Bangbet Hospital Support Fund is not just clearing bills — it is restoring hope, healing families, and giving people a second chance,” she said during the event.

In her remarks, Rev. Dr. Makau acknowledged the ongoing efforts of medical institutions like St. Mary’s Hospital, whose commitment to affordable care often goes unrecognized. “St. Mary’s Hospital has served countless families with excellence and dignity over the years. We salute the management and the entire medical team for their commitment to care, often under very difficult circumstances,” she said.

The BCLB Chairperson further called on licensed gaming companies to adopt a broader sense of purpose in their operations. “Let this moment mark a renewed commitment to collaboration between the private sector and community institutions. Let it also serve as an example for others in the gaming industry and beyond, that business done right is business that uplifts people,” she stated.

The second key feature of the event was the symbolic gifting of empowerment tools to individuals identified as “Friends of Bangbet.” These beneficiaries were selected based on their demonstrated resilience in various community interactions. The gifts, including motorcycles, TVs, and other essential household or livelihood-supporting items, are meant to provide tangible support that eases economic burdens.

David Gichuchi, CEO of Bangbet Kenya, reiterated that the initiative is built on the company’s desire to create long-term value in communities. “This initiative is about transformation, not transactions,” he said. “We’ve walked the wards. We’ve met the families. And we know we must do more. These gifts and this fund are not one-offs — they are part of a deeper journey to walk alongside Kenyans in their most difficult moments.”

Gichuchi also affirmed Bangbet’s commitment to responsible business and full compliance with regulatory standards. “This is not about promotion. It’s about purpose,” he emphasized. “We’re proud to have the support and presence of BCLB today, and we remain fully aligned with the vision of responsible, ethical gaming that uplifts the communities we serve.”

Importantly, the launch event did not feature any promotional betting activities, in full accordance with BCLB guidelines. This was emphasized by the Board, which continues to encourage operators to prioritize social impact as a core component of their business models.

Rev. Dr. Makau concluded her remarks with a broader appeal: “On behalf of the Betting Control and Licensing Board and the Executive Office of the President, I once again extend our heartfelt appreciation to Bangbet Ltd for this act of generosity and to St. Mary’s Hospital for your unwavering service to humanity. May this partnership bring healing, dignity, and hope to those in need.”

As the Changing Lives initiative moves into implementation, Bangbet has pledged to work closely with healthcare facilities and local partners to ensure that the support reaches those who need it most — with transparency, accountability, and compassion at the core.