Foundation tackles underage gambling at Thembisa schools
Although gambling is illegal for individuals under the age of 18 in South Africa, many young people still find ways to engage in underage gambling, particularly online.
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) recently launched the Gauteng leg of its Taking Risks Wisely schools programme, visiting several schools in Thembisa.
Although gambling is illegal for individuals under the age of 18 in South Africa, many young people still find ways to engage in underage gambling, particularly online.
The Taking Risks Wisely initiative aims to educate school-aged learners and vulnerable groups about the dangers of illegal gambling and its consequences.
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Early exposure to gambling
According to SARGF executive director, Sibongile Simelane-Quntana, many learners are first introduced to gambling through informal activities such as Zwepe, a gambling game where players bet on the outcome of a spinning coin, along with dice, card games, and betting money on board games like Ludo.
“There are various factors that contribute to underage gambling, which differ depending on the community,” said Simelane-Quntana.
“Peer pressure, easy access to illegal gambling, exposure to gambling culture, and the normalisation of risky behaviour all play a role in drawing young people into gambling activities.”
Simelane-Quntana emphasised that the goal of Taking Risks Wisely is to ensure that learners understand:
• The legal restrictions around gambling for minors.
• The risks and consequences associated with gambling at a young age.
• The support and treatment options available for those affected by gambling addiction.
Beyond this initiative, SARGF’s Minor Intervention Programme provides counselling services for minors affected by gambling, with parental or legal guardian consent.
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“This programme focuses on offering free support to young people who may be directly impacted by illegal underage gambling or the harmful effects of problem gambling within their homes,” said Simelane-Quntana.
“We look forward to running successful sessions across Mpumalanga schools and working towards reducing the number of learners who fall victim to underage gambling behaviour.”
For free, confidential help, call the National Responsible Gambling Programme toll-free counselling line on 0800 006 008 or WhatsApp ‘Help’ to 076 675 071.
