Online Reporter
Tamuka Mukiwa
THE country’s leading tabloid, H-Metro, which is under the Zimpapers stable, will host the National Forum on Responsible Betting at Alex Sports Club in Harare on July 12, in a landmark move to promote ethical betting practices and reduce gambling-related harm.
Regulators, mental health experts, betting companies, civic society and Government officials will come together at the event to discuss betting’s growing impact on communities.
Strategies for corporate accountability, legislative reform and public awareness around betting addiction will also be explored at the forum.
Also, the gathering will unpack strategies for corporate accountability, legislative reform and public awareness around betting addiction.
The theme of the event, “Collaborate. Regulate. Rehabilitate”, reflects the publication’s commitment to driving conversations around responsible betting and fostering multi-sectoral engagement in addressing the issue.
The rise in mobile betting and social media-driven gaming has led to an increase in betting, leading to a surge in addiction cases among young people, while the regulatory framework and public education efforts are struggling to keep pace with the sector’s rapid growth.
Speaking ahead of the forum, H-Metro editor Robson Sharuko said the publication had a duty to respond to the social concerns emerging from the betting industry, especially among its youthful readership.
“As a publication that interacts daily with the pulse of the streets, we could not ignore the outcry from families and communities affected by irresponsible betting. This forum is part of H-Metro’s broader responsibility to shape national dialogue and promote public interest,” said Sharuko
He said the decision to host the forum under H-Metro, instead of the broader Zimpapers brand, was deliberate: “H-Metro publication connects directly with the youth, those most exposed to the highs and lows of betting. We want to be the bridge between regulation, industry players and punters.”
The betting industry, while contributing significantly to tax revenues and employment, has also been linked to increased levels of addiction, financial distress and social breakdown.
Experts expected to speak at the forum include clinical psychologists, economists and representatives from the Lotteries and Gaming Board.
H-Metro has partnered with top betting companies such as Sun Casino, Africa Bet, Mwos and Bola Bet, which have expressed interest in promoting ethical business models and consumer protection initiatives.
The event will also feature breakaway sessions targeting parents, educators and young people, with plans for follow-up campaigns, including school outreach programmes and a dedicated column in H-Metro focussing on real-life stories of recovery from betting addiction.
To be part of the conversations, kindly contact Tamuka on 078 4750977 or Spindiwe on 0773216457.
Online Reporter