North West Gambling Board Visits Marikana High School to Raise Awareness About Underage Gambling
The North West Gambling Board (NWGB) recently visited Marikana High School to raise awareness about the dangers of underage gambling and to empower young people to make choices that protect their future, as part of the Thuntsha Lerole build-up programme.
Underage gambling is a growing concern in South Africa, even though it is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble. A survey of approximately 4,000 high school learners found that 46% of pupils admitted to having gambled at least once, while 5% said they gamble regularly. In recent years, the rapid growth of online betting has increased young people’s exposure to gambling, with South Africa’s gambling turnover reaching about R1.5 trillion in the 2024/25 financial year.
Studies also show that many young gamblers participate frequently, with some gambling around 11 times per month. This raises concerns about addiction and financial problems at an early age. These trends highlight that youth gambling is becoming a serious social issue, affecting education, finances, and mental health.
By raising awareness among students, the NWGB aims to inform young people about the risks involved. According to NWGB officials, “Gambling might seem fun, but it can quickly spiral out of control.” While it may appear harmless initially, gambling can have far-reaching consequences. For learners, these include addiction and psychological dependency, which are often difficult to overcome. Financial problems, such as the loss of money that can impact their families, are common. Additionally, depression resulting from losses and stress can affect their well-being. In some cases, young people may even resort to illegal activities to fund their gambling habits or cover debts.
A major focus of the NWGB’s campaign is the removal of illegal gambling machines often found operating in local tuckshops. Learners are urged to resist the temptation to gamble and instead focus on their education.
The Marikana community, including teachers and residents, can help protect its youth from the destructive cycle of underage gambling by staying informed and taking proactive steps to report illegal activities to the regulator or local law enforcement authorities.
