Purity Wahiu: The power of women in the gaming industry and challenges of Palms Bet’s expansion

07.10.2024

Purity Wahiu, Regional Ambassador – East Africa and Sports Betting Expert, shares her insights on the evolving role of women in the gaming industry in Africa and the challenges facing the market in Kenya. In this interview, she emphasizes her commitment to gender equality, responsible gaming, and building strong relationships with local communities.

The Growing Role of Women in the African Gaming Industry

As the Regional Ambassador for the Women in Gaming – African Chapter, Wahiu is a strong advocate for promoting gender equality in the male-dominated gaming industry. She mentioned that one of her main motivators for taking on this role was the desire to see more women represented and to create a supportive community for them. “It’s a chance to inspire the next generation of women and leaders in our industry,” says Wahiu. “We aim to promote gender equality and support women in traditionally male-dominated fields.”

Her efforts within Women in Gaming focus not only on networking but also on providing resources and mentorship for women looking to grow their careers in the industry. “Women are increasingly taking on leadership roles and influencing the direction of the gaming industry,” she adds, emphasizing how the recognition of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Gaming motivates and inspires future generations.

Challenges of Palms Bet’s Expansion in Kenya

As a Sports Betting Expert and Operations Manager at Palms Bet, Wahiu shared some of the challenges the company faces during its expansion in Kenya. “The Kenyan government imposes stringent regulations and high taxes on betting firms, which significantly impact profitability and operational costs,” she notes. Despite these hurdles, Palms Bet is committed to growing its digital presence and adapting its offerings to local preferences. “Building a strong digital presence is essential. We are creating engaging content for social media and focusing on user-friendly website experiences.”

One of the challenges Palms Bet faces is the absence of a fully developed mobile app, which is a drawback in Kenya’s mobile-first market. However, Wahiu emphasizes that the company is leveraging innovative marketing strategies and collaborating with local influencers to build a loyal customer base. “To stand out in a competitive market, we need unique offers and promotions, while ensuring our marketing strategies resonate with local culture,” she adds.

Corporate Social Responsibility and Responsible Gaming

Wahiu also highlights Palms Bet’s focus on corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The company is dedicated to promoting responsible gaming and giving back to local communities. “Palms Bet encourages its employees to volunteer in community projects, fostering strong ties and contributing to the well-being of the communities we serve,” Wahiu explains.

The company is also involved in addressing mental health issues and gender-based violence through various CSR programs. “Our CSR efforts not only enhance our reputation but also provide meaningful support to the communities we operate in, funding educational initiatives and sports programs that promote mental well-being,” she says.

The Future of the Gaming Industry in Africa

Wahiu sees a growing focus on local preferences in the African gaming market, with more games being developed to resonate with specific regional tastes. She also notes the increasing regulation of the gaming industry in Africa as governments work to ensure consumer protection and fair play. “Palms Bet is preparing for the future by continuously improving our platform and adapting strategies to meet local needs. Our goal is to create a safe and engaging experience for players across the region,” Wahiu concludes.