A man from Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, is grappling with devastation after losing KSh 2.8 million (approx. N33 million) meant for his education abroad to sports betting.
Dismas Mutai reportedly lost the substantial sum while gambling on Aviator, an online betting platform. Overwhelmed by his loss, he has taken to social media, seeking financial assistance from well-wishers, including politicians.
Mutai admitted that the loss has severely affected his mental health, saying:
“I’m not okay; I will no longer pretend to be okay. I have fallen into a disastrous trap. A trap that I never anticipated in my life. Depression is slowly taking me to the grave. You must have even noticed an unusual change in my behaviour. Aviator flew away with over KSh 2.8 million of people’s money,”
Acknowledging his mistake, Mutai apologized to his family and the community for disappointing them. He admitted to struggling with gambling addiction despite having strong academic ambitions.
“To my mum and the entire family, forgive me. I understand the level of trust you had in me. I have weaknesses just like any other human being, and this has become my greatest weakness,” he said.
Mutai also pleaded with his community for support, emphasizing his active role in village affairs and his hope for a second chance.
“Perhaps the UK was not meant for me, but just give me a chance to survive so that I can be a living testimony to many,” he pleaded.
Before his financial downfall, Mutai had secured a scholarship to study for a Master of Science in International Project Management at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in London. Screenshots shared online indicate that his program was set to begin on January 13, 2025, and conclude on January 16, 2026.
Mutai’s ordeal has ignited a heated conversation online, with many Kenyans condemning gambling as a destructive habit that leads to financial ruin and mental distress.
Some have called on the government to regulate or ban online betting platforms like Aviator to prevent similar cases in the future.
