The Chief Executive Officer of Kumasi Asante Kotoko, Nana Yaw Amponsah, has said betting is not a bad thing as perceived by critics.

He said this at the media launch of the new sponsorship deal signed between the club and betting giants Betika Ghana.

The two-year sealed deal was initially announced on Wednesday, November 17 and was officially signed on Tuesday, 7 December 2021 in Kumasi.

Addressing match-fixing issues and other negatives associated with betting, the CEO debunked all claims that Kotoko’s new deal is unsafe.

He added that betting is not a bad thing but has rather contributed enormously to the development of sports across the globe, noting that their new partner, Betika, does not indulge in any betting illegalities.

Kotoko are looking forward to earning GHS1.3 million from the newly signed deal.

“Just like Betika, we preach responsible betting. Betting is not a bad thing. Betting has contributed enormously to the development of sports over the world. If you go to developed jurisdictions in football, like the EPL, Bundesliga and the rest, you will see the amount of betting resource that is put into the sports,” he said.

Nana Yaw Amponsah also said Betika was a trustworthy company and urged Kotoko fans to have no fears in the new deal signed.

“Betika stands for clean betting and, therefore, I can allay the fears of every individual around the Kotoko fraternity that we are going to do what is with Betika to ensure that both brands progress well”, Nana Yaw Amponsah added.

Kotoko will earn close to GHS630,000 per annum and in-kind provision of balls, nets, and other sporting equipment.

In addition, the partnership is aimed at investing in the youth to develop talentS through sports, arts and culture.