Bangbet CSR Initiative Offers Critical Support to Public Health Sector

Nairobi, Kenya – July 5, 2025 – With public hospitals across Kenya facing rising pressure from high patient volumes and growing cases of unpaid medical bills, Bangbet Kenya has stepped in with a timely and targeted intervention: the launch of its corporate social responsibility initiative, “Changing Lives – Powered by Bangbet.”

At the heart of this initiative is the Bangbet Hospital Support Fund, a newly established program that will assist vulnerable patients — especially new mothers and road accident victims — who are unable to leave public hospitals due to unpaid bills.

The program was launched during a well-attended event at Lord Erroll Gardens, Runda, where Bangbet CEO David Gichuchi emphasized the company’s commitment to long-term impact over temporary charity.

“This event marks the beginning of a deeper journey,” Gichuchi said. “We are proud to officially introduce the Bangbet Hospital Support Fund — an initiative that will help release patients who are stuck in hospitals due to unpaid bills. These are mothers who have just delivered, car accident victims, and many more Kenyans who simply cannot afford to go home.”

The inspiration for the hospital fund came from Bangbet’s recent outreach at St. Mary’s Hospital, a leading faith-based institution in Nairobi. During the visit, Bangbet encountered firsthand the strain placed on healthcare systems when patients — though medically discharged — remain in hospital because they cannot settle their bills.

Sister Dr. Rose Nafula, CEO of St. Mary’s Hospital, described the challenge her hospital faces almost daily.

“In many cases, our medical teams have done everything required to help the patient heal — but financial hardship delays their return to their families,” she said. “We do not enjoy keeping people here longer than necessary. It increases operational costs and emotional stress for families.”

Welcoming the partnership, Dr. Nafula thanked Bangbet for not only acknowledging the challenge but also acting decisively. “We are truly overwhelmed by this act of compassion. The Bangbet Hospital Support Fund is not just clearing bills — it is restoring hope, healing families, and giving people a second chance.”

As a first step, Bangbet committed Ksh 1,000,000 to help offset patient balances at St. Mary’s Hospital. The funds will be used in close coordination with hospital social work teams to identify and prioritize the most urgent cases.

Alongside the hospital fund, the launch also celebrated the empowerment of selected individuals referred to as Friends of Bangbet. These were community members identified through Bangbet’s field-level engagements, recognized for their strength and perseverance. Each received a practical gift — such as a motorcycle, a household appliance, or an electronic device — aimed at easing their day-to-day life or enhancing their economic stability.

“This is about economic empowerment,” Gichuchi stated. “We believe in walking alongside Kenyans who simply need a little support to take their next step. These tools represent our belief in their ability and dignity.”

The initiative has been praised by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), which oversees the gaming sector in Kenya. Rev. Dr. Jane Mwikali Makau, Chairperson of the Board, delivered a keynote during the event, lauding Bangbet’s effort as an example of responsible and ethical corporate engagement.

“This noble act is a shining example of the kind of impact we expect and encourage from all licensed operators,” Rev. Dr. Makau said. “Bangbet Ltd has demonstrated that the private sector can play a major role in promoting dignity, equity, and social progress.”

Importantly, the event was conducted in full compliance with BCLB regulations. No betting promotions were carried out, and the entire occasion focused exclusively on social impact — particularly in the health and economic well-being sectors.

Rev. Dr. Makau emphasized the importance of partnerships like this one in alleviating pressure on healthcare systems. “Let this be a call to action to all private sector players — that there is room, and a need, for your contribution in strengthening our national institutions.”

For Kenya’s overstretched health facilities, initiatives like Bangbet’s may offer a template for sustainable support. By combining direct patient assistance with broader public engagement, Changing Lives – Powered by Bangbet bridges a critical gap in community care.

And as Gichuchi noted in his closing remarks, the work is just beginning. “We’ve walked the wards. We’ve met the families. And we know we must do more. This fund is not a one-time activity — it is a long-term commitment.”