North West Gambling Board champions responsible gambling on World AIDS Day
The NWGB’s core message centred on building awareness about gambling as a form of recreation, not a financial plan.
South Africa.- The North West Gambling Board (NWGB) joined the provincial World AIDS Day commemoration at Tlhabane Stadium on November 28, using the occasion to promote responsible gambling practices and community wellbeing.
Board representatives set up an information booth during the morning exhibition, where they spoke with attendees about practical steps to manage gambling habits.
The event, led by North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi in his role as Chairperson of the Provincial Council on AIDS, drew hundreds of residents from Rustenburg and surrounding areas. It opened with displays from various government departments, followed by a community feedback session.
The event also featured participation from North West Health MEC Sello Lehari, Mayors from the Bojanala Platinum District and Rustenburg Local Municipality, as well as civil society groups focused on HIV prevention.
The NWGB’s core message centred on building awareness about gambling as a form of recreation, not a financial plan.
In a statement released during the event, the board outlined its approach: “As part of our mandate to promote a safe and socially responsible gambling environment, the board is conducting a responsible gambling awareness campaign, engaging community members on the risks of excessive gambling, the importance of setting limits and always gambling for entertainment, not as a way to make money.
“We are encouraging people to gamble responsibly, know their rights and seek help when gambling starts to affect their finances, relationships or wellbeing. Support and information are available for individuals and families who may be experiencing gambling-related harm.”
The board also linked its message to the day’s focus on HIV and gender-based violence prevention. Staff noted that financial stress from losses can heighten risks for both issues, such as delayed medical visits or household tensions that lead to conflict.
This effort builds on the board’s recent activities under Thuntsha Lerole. Just weeks earlier, the board held a session at Tsholofelo CNDC Hall in Tshing, where participants discussed links between gambling patterns and mental health. There, facilitators stressed self-discipline in play and the value of viewing games as leisure.
The NWGB’s presence at Tlhabane Stadium marked another practical step in its year-round campaign to place responsible gambling messages where people already gather for help and information. By sharing the same space as HIV testing queues and health counsellors, the board reminded residents that money troubles caused by gambling do not exist in isolation; they can delay treatment, strain relationships and weaken the very support networks families rely on.
