Zambia: Operators and parents urged to curb underage betting
ZGA secretary general Darius Sinkamba says smartphone-based betting is creating additional age-verification and supervision challenges.
Zambia.- Zambia Gaming Association (ZGA) secretary general Darius Sinkamba has called for stronger responsible gambling measures, warning about the effects of excessive gambling and the risk of underage betting online.
In a recent interview, Sinkamba said gambling provides income and entertainment for some Zambians, but excessive and irresponsible gambling can have serious consequences for individuals, families and livelihoods. He also pointed to cases involving loss of life as part of the harm associated with irresponsible gambling.
A particular concern for the association is children’s access to online betting. Sinkamba said some parents provide their children with smartphones and access to funds, allowing them to reach gambling platforms despite the legal age restriction. He said: “This is illegal and dangerous. We must protect our children.”
Zambia’s gambling framework sets 18 as the minimum age for betting. The country amended its Betting Control Act in 2021, amid concerns raised by lawmakers about minors accessing online gambling through smartphones.
The issue has become more relevant as betting services have expanded beyond physical outlets to mobile platforms. Customers can now access betting services through internet-connected devices, creating additional challenges around age verification and parental supervision.
Sinkamba urged operators to maintain effective age-verification systems and called on parents and guardians to monitor children’s access to smartphones, funds and online betting services. He said the ZGA would continue to focus on responsible gambling, public awareness and compliance across the sector.
