The initiative targeting underage gambling in SA schools
From Zwepe to online betting, underage gambling is a growing concern. The Taking Risks Wisely initiative takes awareness campaigns directly to schools.
Even though gambling is illegal for individuals younger than 18 in South Africa, many young people still find ways to participate, particularly through online platforms.
To combat this issue, The Hollywood Foundation, in partnership with The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF), launched the Taking Risks Wisely initiative to educating learners and vulnerable groups about the dangers and consequences of illegal gambling.
According to Sibongile Simelane-Quntana, SARGF executive director at SARGF, many learners are introduced to gambling through informal activities such as Zwepe (a coin-spinning betting game), dice, cards and wagering on board games like Ludo.
“There are various factors that contribute to underage gambling, which differ depending on the community. Peer pressure, 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,” she explained.
“The Hollywood Foundation remains committed to its mission to empower communities through education, accessibility, and early intervention. We believe responsible gambling is a community imperative, which is why we support awareness initiatives as part of our broader community development strategy. Through this partnership, we’re creating safer spaces for conversations, support, and sustainable choices,” says Vuyisile Ngobese, public relations officer at the Hollywood Foundation on www.hollywoodfoundation.co.za.
Key objectives of the Taking Risks Wisely programme include:
- Empowering young South Africans to make informed decisions around risk-taking behaviour.
- Educating learners about the legal restrictions on underage gambling.
- Highlighting the risks and consequences of gambling at a young age.
- Providing information on support and treatment options for those affected by gambling addiction.
In addition to this initiative, SARGF’s Minor Intervention Programme offers free counselling services for minors impacted by gambling, with parental or guardian consent.
“This programme focuses on providing support to young people who are directly affected by illegal underage gambling or the negative effects of problem gambling within their homes,” said Simelane-Quntana.
“The programme provides an opportunity for counselling services to minors (under the age of 18 through parental or legal guardian consent) who may be impacted directly by illegal underage gambling or the potential harmful effects of problem gambling within the home through the 24/7 National Responsible Gambling Programme toll- free counselling line,” said Sibongile Simelane-Quntana.
She concluded by expressing confidence in the programme’s effectiveness:
“We look forward to running successful sessions and working towards reducing the number of learners who fall victim to underage gambling behaviour.”
