Kenyan Health Ministry advises parents on preventing gambling addiction
Parents are advised to encourage healthy interests like sports.
Kenya.- The Kenyan Ministry of Health has called on parents and guardians to take measures to protect their children from gambling addiction.
According to the ministry, parents can help by monitoring their children’s online activities and having open and honest conversations about the risks of gambling. They are also advised to be alert to red flags, such as financial issues or secretive actions.
The ministry further recommends that parents, educators and caregivers encourage healthy interests like sports, art or other activities that foster positive development in young people. They are urged to seek professional help if they suspect gambling addiction.
The health ministry also appealed to media outlets to prioritise responsible reporting and educate the public about the dangers of gambling.
A recent study by GeoPoll found that Kenya (82%) and Uganda (71%) have the highest rates of gambling participation in East Africa. A majority of these gamblers are made up of youths and young adults.
Kenya has been exploring ways to address the risks of excessive gambling, particularly among young people. In addition to these advisory measures, the health ministry has launched a Rapid Response Team to address the issue.
Crash games like Aviator have been identified as key drivers of problem gambling.
