Kenyans raise alarm over betting scheme sending many youths to early graves

A wave of concern is sweeping across the country as the online betting game known as Aviator continues to wreak havoc on the lives of countless Kenyan youths. Marketed as a quick-cash opportunity, the high-stakes game has gained massive popularity among young adults.

However, beneath the flashy wins and viral social media posts lies a disturbing trend of financial ruin, mental health deterioration, and even death.

How Aviator betting game works

The simple yet dangerously addictive game, available on multiple online betting platforms, simulates a plane taking off—players place their bets and watch as a multiplier rises.

The longer the plane “flies,” the higher the payout. But if it flies away before a player cashes out, the entire stake is lost.

While the premise appears simple, its impact is anything but. The game is designed to make punters feel like they’re just one click away from success. But in reality, it pulls one deeper into a trap.

A national epidemic in the making

Dozens of cases have emerged of youths selling belongings, taking out mobile loans, and falling into depression after suffering massive losses.

In Eldoret, Dismas Mutai lost KSh 2.8 million that was intended for his studies abroad to betting, leaving him with regrets.

“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,” – he lamented.

Many others have shared screenshots of massive losses, others cry out for help as they sink deeper into debt and psychological distress. Some tragically don’t survive the pressure.

Social media hype misleading youths

For many, Aviator is introduced by friends or influencers showcasing glamorous “wins” online, often sponsored by betting companies.

Social media influencers share screenshots of five-figure wins, encouraging followers to “try their luck.”

On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Aviator is often glamorised, but what is rarely shown are the losses that follow.

“All my hard work went to waste because of betting. I thought things would be better at home, but my addiction didn’t go away. I ended up in more trouble,”

– businesswoman Mirriam Waithira shared.

From hope to despair

Mental health experts are warning that the addictive nature of the game mirrors that of traditional betting, but is more dangerous due to its speed and accessibility.

Dr. Sarah Wanjiku, a psychologist based in Nairobi, says her clinic has seen a rise in young men and women presenting with gambling-related anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.

“We are witnessing lives being derailed overnight. Some have given up on life after accumulating debts they cannot repay,” – she said.

Tragically, there have been several cases of deaths linked to Aviator losses. On Tuesday, October 1, a small-scale businesswoman was discovered dead inside her shop in Kakamega town.

Kambiri area chief Caleb Natiri confirmed the tragic incident, revealing that the woman had been frustrated after losing a KSh 60,000 bet.

Regulatory lapses on betting

Despite the evident harm, the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has remained largely silent on the matter.

Critics accuse the regulator of failing to rein in platforms that continue to promote Aviator through aggressive online marketing and celebrity endorsements.

They argue that the future of many youths is in limbo as students continue to access the game easily through mobile apps and websites.

With mounting pressure, religious leaders, teachers’ unions, and mental health advocates are urging the government to ban or regulate Aviator before the damage becomes irreversible.

As the country grapples with unemployment and the cost-of-living crisis, the lure of instant wealth remains a powerful magnet.

But as the stories emerging around Aviator show, the price of that hope may be far too high.

Source: msn.com

About Post Author

Szarlot

I am a fan of casino games especially roulette and blackjack. After that I analyze current events in the gambling industry.

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Szarlot

I am a fan of casino games especially roulette and blackjack. After that I analyze current events in the gambling industry.