Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka, [email protected]
AS gambling continues to surge in popularity across the country, the Lotteries and Gaming Board has issued a stern warning to punters to exercise restraint, cautioning that the “get-rich-quick” mindset is a slippery slope to financial ruin and social decay.
With betting shops now a permanent fixture in both the city centre and high-density suburbs, the board is stepping up its campaign to promote responsible gambling, emphasising that the activity should be viewed strictly as a form of entertainment rather than a reliable source of income.
In an interview, Lotteries and Gaming Board’s Acting Compliance Manager, Dr Misheck Chingozha, said it is critical for players to strike a balance between passion and reason.
“Players are taken through an understanding that, for them to survive into the future, they have to gamble in a responsible manner.
“What this entails is that, as a matter of principle, they should not get to a point where they allow their passion to override their reason when they approach the betting houses,” said Dr Chingozha.
He said while gambling is a legitimate form of entertainment, it becomes harmful when individuals treat it as a source of income.
The warning comes at a time when many families have been left destitute after breadwinners diverted essential funds to betting slips.
Dr Chingozha expressed concern over reports of punters, particularly among the youth, wagering money meant for basic necessities.
“They should not be tempted to take money meant for school fees, rentals, medical bills, or even funerals to a betting house.
“Whatever happens there, you never know. We are really encouraging them to avoid addiction, which is synonymous with irresponsible gambling,” he added.
Experts in the industry have noted that the “chasing losses” phenomenon, where a player continues to bet in a desperate attempt to recover lost money, is the primary driver of gambling addiction.
To counter this, the board is advocating for a shift in culture where punters learn the discipline of walking away.
Dr Chingozha urged punters to set strict financial limits before entering a gaming house.
“They should know their limits. They should know what amount of money they can take to a gaming house so that, should they lose it, they will not lose sleep over it.
“They should also have the culture of knowing when to walk away and should never be tempted to chase their losses,” he said.
The board is currently utilising various media platforms to spread the message that gambling is not inherently “evil”, provided it is done with discipline.
Beyond the players, the board is also engaging with operators to ensure that the industry remains sustainable and ethical.
Dr Chingozha warned that predatory practices by gaming houses could ultimately destroy the sector.
“We are also encouraging our operators to ensure they do not rip off the punters, but rather sustain them.
“If we rip them off, then there is no industry and no gambling to talk about in the future.
“Punters don’t have to go in with all their heart; it must be for fun and entertainment,” said Dr Chingozha.
The Lotteries and Gaming Board further advised the public to avoid gambling under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as these substances impair judgement and increase the likelihood of reckless betting.
