By Aoma Keziah,
What began as a simple CSR launch unfolded into a moving gathering of stories, gratitude, and human connection a true testament to the power of thoughtful giving.
At the center of it all was Bangbet Kenya’s initiative, Changing Lives Powered by Bangbet, a program designed to provide practical support to both hospital patients and everyday Kenyans facing economic hardship.
“We’re not just here to hand over things,” said David Gichuchi, CEO of Bangbet, addressing guests with sincerity. “We’re here because we believe in being present, where it matters most, when it matters most.”
Among the many in attendance was Sister Dr. Rose Nafula, CEO of St. Mary’s Hospital, who described the reality of running a hospital where patients though medically cleared are trapped by unpaid bills.
“It’s a silent crisis,” she said quietly. “You watch mothers who’ve delivered healthy babies, sitting on their hospital beds for weeks, unable to go home. What Bangbet is doing is restoring their dignity.”
The event marked the official launch of the Bangbet Hospital Support Fund, with Bangbet committing Ksh 1,000,000 to St. Mary’s to assist in clearing the medical bills of such patients. The fund will prioritize new mothers and road accident survivors two groups most commonly detained due to financial constraints.
“It gives us hope,” one St. Mary’s nurse said off-stage. “To know that companies are actually listening and acting not just showing up with banners.”
But the day wasn’t just about hospital bills. It was also about recognition and empowerment and several attendees were named Friends of Bangbet, a title given to individuals who had been identified through earlier community engagements for their resilience and determination.
Each was gifted a practical item a motorcycle, a television, a household appliance not for show, but for use.
“These are not gifts,” Gichuchi said. “They are tools. For earning. For easing burdens. For restoring hope.”
One woman, holding a television set, stood quietly after receiving her item, hands shaking slightly. “I didn’t know someone out there noticed what I was going through,” she said, blinking back tears.
Overseeing the event was Rev. Dr. Jane Mwikali Makau, Chairperson of the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB). “This is what we want to see in the industry,” she said. “Business that uplifts people. CSR that is ethical, clean, and deeply impactful.”
The event was strictly non-promotional, in full alignment with BCLB guidelines a point that was reinforced throughout the day.
As guests took their final photos and the symbolic cheque was handed over to St. Mary’s Hospital, the message was clear: real change doesn’t need a spotlight just a willingness to act.
“We believe in walking with people, not just during good times,” Gichuchi said in his closing remarks. “This is not the end. It’s the beginning.”
Mt Kenya Times 
Jerameel Kevins Owuor Odhiambo