Kenya deploys Rapid Response Team to combat rising gambling addiction among youth
Crash game Aviator and other betting games blamed as Kenyan government forms specialised response team to deal with youth gambling addiction.
Nairobi, Kenya – The government of Kenya has sounded the alarm over the growing tide of gambling addiction among the nation’s youth. The country’s Health Ministry has launched a Rapid Response Team to combat the soaring rates of betting-related addiction, particularly fuelled by digital crash games like Aviator.
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni announced the initiative, highlighting the urgent need for a fully collaborative approach.
“In response to this emerging public health threat, the ministry has constituted a rapid response team to provide a coordinated and multi-sectoral approach to this crisis. The response includes the establishment of a dedicated helpline for individuals affected by gambling addiction,” she said in a press release.
What the Rapid Response Team will do
The newly formed team will lead a nationwide intervention, mobilising multiple government departments including the Directorate of Preventive and Promotive Health, Mental Health Division and the Drugs and Substance Use Control Division.
In addition to a helpline, the ministry will deploy trained counsellors to schools and colleges, provide psychosocial support, and launch robust public awareness campaigns. A national multi-agency study is also in the works to measure the depth of the crisis and provide data-driven guidance for future policies.
Muthoni has further called on parents and guardians to pay more attention to the warning signs from kids.
“Monitor your children’s mobile app usage, create open and non-judgmental conversations about gaming, and be attentive to warning signs such as secrecy, sudden financial distress or academic decline,” she said.
“The Ministry urges all parents, caregivers and guardians to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting children and youth.”
