Bookmaker John Power has launched a service that taps M-Pesa to enable Kenyans to place bets on football matches using their mobile phone.
The bookie has set up a dedicated number for customers for M-Pesa which can then be used to make bets from advertised coupons using a simple code.
For example, Manchester United against Liverpool is advertised as match number 101. A home win is identified as #1, an away win as #2 and a draw as #0. The client makes their choice and then identifies how much they want to stake with a * and the amount. So, to bet 100 shillings on United to win, a client would enter 101#1*100.
Reference numbers are issued via text message and the bet is trackable. To collect their winnings, users text W and the amount they wish to withdraw from their account, which is then settled via M-Pesa.
Says John Power: "We believe this system will revolutionise sports betting in Kenya, and takes the market to new heights. We are very much looking forward to providing Kenyans opportunities to support their teams."