SportPesa extends betting to those without smartphones

SportPesa, the sports betting company,  has launched a service that supports clients with no smartphones or access to computers. The introduction of the Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD code) will bring on board sports fans and gaming enthusiasts previously locked out of the SportPesa platform because they did not have smartphones or computers to access the site or app.

To access the free service, customers will be required to dial the short code *790# to place their bets. The service will complement the existing platforms – website and the SportPesa App. “We have been listening to the feedback from our clients and this is what many have been asking for,” said SportPesa Chief Marketing Officer, Kester Shimonyo.

Including the SMS offering also improves the betting experience by use of keying in digits to represent one’s selection which is easier compared to typing the entire string message, added Mr Shimonyo. The move follows recent reduction in the minimum betting amount by the company, from Ksh100 to Ksh49.

The reduction however only applies to both Single and Multi bet while the Midweek and Mega Jackpot minimum remains at KSh100. SportPesa has presence in the United Kingdom and is looking to extending its operations to several African countries in its push to have a presence in at least four continents.

[crp]