By David Odongo
Canadian lottery firm Amaya Gaming Group has reiterated its commitment to ensuring transparent lotteries in Kenya and supporting charity work.
The firm which opened its doors in Kenya said it will ensure integrity in gaming and its operations.
“Amaya is not involved in any form of embezzlement and confirms that contrary to a media report we have followed due diligence and remain transparent in our operations,” Brian Steppens, the director said in a statement.
Steppens said: “A court order has been issued from the High Court stopping the Kibera Chief Magistrate from hearing and determining a case of alleged embezzlement after a charity institution moved to court.
“We want to set the records straight because it is in public interest. The media statements are false and ridiculous” Steppens said.
“The Lion Heart Self Help Group has executed an official discharge which attests that Amaya Kenya has fully paid its charitable contributions and has received the money as mutually agreed.” He said.
Amaya has contributed Sh230 million to charity across the country and made dozens of Kenyan players millionaires.
“We have given Sh30 million to charity in good faith. The Meru sub-district Hospital will receive Sh 1.4 million worth of equipment.”
“Embu District Hospital will also receive Sh670,000 worth of goods and equipment and there plans to give the Kenya Girl Guides Sh3.2 million worth of equipment including a car.
Steppens said Amaya Gaming Group was cleared of claims embezzlement after a charity institution moved to court.
“Amaya has fully honored its commitment to make charitable contributions in compliance with its lottery obligations.”
Since its launch in 2010, Amaya Kenya has issued over Sh200m in cash prizes to the Kenyan public and donated over Sh30m to charity in good faith.
“Amaya Gaming has submitted independently audited statements of accounts to the Kenya Revenue Authority and the Betting Control and Licensing Board. We are also in the process of donating general equipment and infrastructure to Hospitals in Meru and Muthara as well as other well deserving charities across Kenya including development projects targeted at schools and youth organizations,” he said.
“Amaya Gaming group is opposed to corruption and is committed to integrity, transparency and accountability, “Steppens said at a press conference.
After throughyly investigating this matter, The Standard did not to find any tangible evidence implicating the Amaya Gaming in its operations nor disputing the above statements.
