New campaign aims to tackle gambling risks among schoolchildren in Zululand region

An awareness campaign is this week set to be rolled out at several schools in the Zululand region to highlight the dangers of illegal and underage gambling.

The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) will visit schools in Empangeni, Richards Bay, Nkandla and Mandeni.

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This is part of the Taking Risks Wisely initiative to educate school-aged learners and vulnerable groups about the dangers of illegal gambling and its consequences.

“There are various factors that contribute to underage gambling, which differ depending on the community,” said SARGF executive director Sibongile Simelane-Quntana.

“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 said the initiative delves into legal restrictions on gambling for minors, the risks and consequences associated with gambling at a young age, as well as support and treatment options available for those affected by gambling addiction.

“This programme focuses on offering free support to young people who may have been directly impacted by illegal underage gambling or the harmful effects of problem gambling within their homes,” said Simelane-Quntana.

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