Walking in Nairobi on Saturday will likely bring you in contact with people screaming about Chelsea, Arsenal or close competing bets that almost went their way. Wagering now happens all the time for us — while sitting through a game, relaxing at a vibanda, or glancing at scores while catching a matatu.
Even though there’s betting everywhere, lots of people aren’t sure what they should wager on or how the whole game works.
Whatever has happened, it doesn’t matter. Let’s start talking. No hype. A look at how betting happens here and what bettors are actually doing with their cash.
You Can’t Explain the Game Without Football, But There’s Still More to It
There is someone betting on football everywhere. That’s been happening for a while. It doesn’t matter if it’s EPL, La Liga or the FKF Premier League. Everybody knows the odds and most know the teams well. Unless you’re very unlucky — like backing Man City and they tie with Burnley (and mess up your ticket) — your chance is always safe.
Still, more folks try different methods today. Like:
NBA — There are nights when it seems like LeBron is the only one who counts.
Virtual sports — those speedy games that run all the time — are popular among those betting when there’s no real match.
Aviator and crash games — quick, easy to play, a little risky, but fun.
It’s doggedly optimistic to believe that the 50 bob you placed will bring you 500K. There’s little hope, but many attempt it anyway.
A lot of people don’t just bet on luck; they check team lists, watch for injuries, and consider weather effects.
The Way Kenyans May Finish a Transaction
To be blunt, skipping M-Pesa is a big reason why many bettors will abandon a betting site. That’s the way it works.
It’s easy to use M-Pesa and Airtel Money. Most likely, you’ve come across them before.
While some people use credit/debit cards, typically large purchases are what they’re for.
• Skrill/Neteller — Some people don’t use these enough, especially when betting on foreign sites.
• Crypto? — It’s happening, and becoming more common. A small number of platforms work with Bitcoin, yet it isn’t suited to every user.
I’ve made deposits with both M-Pesa and WRBet, but I make sure to use a small amount to make sure everything works as expected. Even with the network working properly, I don’t like to put 1K at stake on that symbol.
Experiment with a Variety of Bets
A few of my friends just bet on football and one team every time. Trying out different formats can sometimes be very rewarding. I have tried slots a couple of times, played a TV game while having ugali and watched a Lucky 6 round on an old tablet. You notice which exercises are a good match for your speed. If the movie is boring, you stop watching. If you have a good time, you could want to come back. The purpose is: testing different areas will help you identify your true interest.
The Social Side of It
There is not enough discussion about how social betting can be. I’ve seen that a lot of people bet by themselves, but in Rongai and Nairobi West, some groups join forces, pick their favorite teams and argue about the odds. It shifts from the bet itself to spending time with others. Having someone make you laugh can make losing feel less painful. That’s the part where you shout, laugh and imagine different outcomes and it’s a lot of fun.
What Does “Good” Mean in a Betting Site?
I get asked this a lot, but I believe it’s what you value that matters most.
Do you want to get paid fast? Then you need to consider this service.
Are you happiest when bonuses are on offer?
Is betting during matches the only way you use your money?
Numerous friends I have talk about Mozzart’s winning jackpot opportunities. WRBet keeps customers with its smooth mobile site and daily offers. Me? I don’t use every line at once, but I do use a couple.
If your website holds a BCLB license and it follows through on your withdrawals, you’re probably safe.
Betting is allowed in Kenya, but you need to know not to bet where it isn’t okay.
It’s been legal in Kenya for people to bet since the ‘60s. Sports betting online became an option in 2011. Just because an activity is legal doesn’t mean it won’t cause problems for you.
A lot of my friends have lost all their money chasing a streak of luck. Others told me they’ve won 3K from 100 bob and cashed out fast. It’s not just about what you learn — you can also teach something.
So decide ahead of time how much you want to spend. Stay committed to what you do. Anger doesn’t make for a good betting experience.
Final Thought
The types of bets most popular with Kenyans? Just playing football games to guess the winner isn’t the only way. Part of it is deciding what you want in your game, where you are, and when you decide to end your session.
WRBet is now part of that scene — the site’s basic options are set and it also provides something for those looking for novelty.
Don’t gamble money foolishly. The game will be around tomorrow as well.
