NWGB and partners tackle problem gambling and alcohol abuse in Rustenburg
NWGB representatives urged community members to gamble wisely and taught them how to recognise early warning signs of problem gambling.
South Africa.- The North West Gambling Board (NWGB) has embarked on a joint awareness campaign with the Liquor Regulations Unit at Rustenburg to educate the public on responsible gambling and liquor practices. The outreach, held at the Rustenburg Taxi Rank on Friday, August 7, was a key aspect of the Thuntsha Lerole service-delivery programme, which aims to bridge the gap between government departments and local communities.
According to the duo, the purpose of the campaign was to raise awareness about the risks associated with irresponsible gambling and alcohol misuse. They also used the platform to promote the free and available support services for those struggling with addiction.
NWGB representatives urged community members to gamble wisely and taught them how to recognise early warning signs of problem gambling. Officials from the Liquor Regulations Unit stressed the importance of complying with age restrictions and serving alcohol responsibly.
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) was highlighted as the primary provider of free, confidential counselling for problem gambling, and attendees were given the organisation’s contact details for round-the-clock support. SARGF operates a national counselling line and runs prevention, training and treatment referral programmes across the country. This event forms part of an intensified provincial effort to curb illegal gambling and harmful substance use.
In recent months, the NWGB has coordinated raids and the destruction of unlicensed gambling machines in various North West locations. Notably, in May this year, MEC Lenkopane oversaw the destruction of 278 machines across Rustenburg and Koster.
