NWGB flags illegal online gambling risks at Green Youth Indaba
The board educated attendees about the importance of gambling through licensed operators.
South Africa.- The North West Gambling Board (NWGB) has raised awareness about responsible online gaming and the prevention of underage gambling at the 11th Annual Green Youth Indaba held at Sun City Superbowl on June 18–19.
The event, themed “From Youth Innovation to Green Enterprise and Economic Impact”, convened young innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, investors and government representatives to explore opportunities within the green economy and sustainable development sectors.
The regulator said the platform provides an opportunity to engage directly with young people as online gambling and digital betting products become increasingly accessible through mobile devices and internet-based platforms. The board educated attendees about the importance of gambling through licensed operators, recognising gambling-related risks and making informed decisions when participating in regulated gaming activities.
The NWGB also highlighted the dangers posed by illegal gambling operators, which operate outside South Africa’s regulatory framework and may lack consumer protection measures, responsible gambling tools and age-verification controls designed to prevent underage participation.
According to the board, youth empowerment extends beyond employment and business opportunities to include equipping young people with the knowledge needed to make responsible life choices. Through awareness initiatives and stakeholder partnerships, the board aims to strengthen consumer protection efforts while supporting broader provincial development objectives.
The regulator added that its participation in the Indaba forms part of its ongoing mandate to support inclusive development, strengthen community resilience and encourage responsible participation in regulated industries.
