Betika waives entry charges for Kenya-Comoros tie

A Betika official engages football fans during a community event at Camp Toyoyo, Nairobi. [Standard Sports]

Football fans will have no reason not to attend the upcoming 2021 Africa Nations Cup (Afcon) qualification match between Kenya and Comoros in Nairobi after gaming firm Betika waived the gate charges.

Harambee Stars are currently tied on two points with third-placed Egypt, two points behind Group G leaders Comoros ahead of this month’s two-legged tie. 

And with the group still wide open, Betika sealed a Sh3million deal with the Football Kenya Federation yesterday as a way to push Francis Kimanzi’s boys to victory for the game slated for March 25 at Kasarani Stadium before traveling to Comoros on March 29.

“We are absolutely thrilled to support the Harambee Stars, we believe today’s announcement comes at an opportune time when our team needs all the support it can get to further cement their chances of qualifying for the 2021 AFCON tournament,” said Betika Business Head John Mbatiah.

“As a Kenyan homegrown company, we are fully committed to supporting the wholesome development of Kenyan football at different levels and that is why we have covered the cost of matchday tickets. We share in FKF’s aspirations of filling the stadium and getting the fans engaged with this great sport while bringing the best in everyone, which is at the very core of everything we are about’’.

He added: “The Harambee Stars deserve a committed partner and this partnership, which underpins the good work that FKF has done over the years will ensure every stage of the game benefits from Betika’s involvement.”

On his part, FKF President Nick Mwendwa said: “The match against Comoros is very important for us and Betika’s decision to partner with FKF could not have come at a better time.

“It is our belief that the waiver of gate charges will not only enable thousands of fans to attend the game but will also create an enabling atmosphere for our team to get a positive result from the match.”