A man from Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, is facing immense distress after losing KSh 2.8 million (approximately N33 million) that was meant for his studies abroad to online gambling.
Dismas Mutai reportedly lost the substantial sum while betting on Aviator, a digital gambling platform. In the aftermath, he turned to social media, seeking assistance from well-wishers, including politicians.
Expressing his despair, Mutai revealed that the loss had severely impacted his mental well-being.
“I am not okay, and I can no longer pretend to be. I have fallen into a situation I never anticipated. Depression is taking a toll on me. You may have even noticed changes in my behavior. Aviator took away over KSh 2.8 million of other people’s money,” he shared, as reported by Tuko News, a widely known Kenyan news outlet.
Seeking Forgiveness and Support
Mutai used his platform to request help from kind-hearted Kenyans, acknowledging his mistakes and the emotional burden they had caused.
He extended an apology to his family, expressing regret for disappointing them and admitting to his struggles with gambling addiction despite his aspirations for a brighter future.
“To my mother and family, I ask for forgiveness. I know the trust you had in me. Like any human, I have weaknesses, and unfortunately, gambling has become my greatest downfall,” he confessed.
He also appealed to his community for understanding, emphasizing his past involvement in local matters and his hope for redemption.
“Perhaps studying in the UK was never meant to be, but please give me a chance to rebuild my life so I can inspire others,” he pleaded.
Academic Ambitions and Public Reaction
Mutai had secured a scholarship to pursue a Master of Science in International Project Management at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in London.
Screenshots shared online indicate that his program was scheduled to begin on January 13, 2025, and conclude on January 16, 2026.
His story has sparked widespread discussion among Kenyans online, with many condemning gambling as a dangerous habit that can lead to severe financial and psychological distress.
Some have urged the government to introduce stricter regulations or even ban platforms like Aviator to prevent similar cases in the future.
