Zimbabwe’s gambling regulator promotes responsible gaming amid National Clean‑up
Describing environmental care and gambling behaviour as matters of personal and collective responsibility, Dr Chingozha urged citizens to “look at life intently and responsibly”.
Zimbabwe.- Zimbabwe’s Lotteries and Gaming Board (LGB) has called for stronger responsible gambling practices while participating in the National Clean-up Campaign in Harare.
The clean-up, held on Friday, March 6, involved volunteers from the gaming sector and other groups, including the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage and Geo Pomona. Participants collected waste from public areas in central Harare as part of a broader national drive to maintain clean public spaces and encourage community participation.
In comments following the exercise, Dr Misheck Pachipano Chingozha, LGB’s Chief Executive Officer, said communities must take active steps to improve their surroundings and, by extension, protect themselves socially and economically.
Describing environmental care and gambling behaviour as matters of personal and collective responsibility, Dr Chingozha urged citizens to “look at life intently and responsibly”, adding that improving community conditions begins with the right attitude from every individual.
He said the gaming industry’s participation in the clean-up was in response to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s call for organisations and citizens to support national environmental initiatives. Government and private sector groups took part in clearing waste from streets in Harare as part of the campaign.
On gambling, the Chief Executive stressed that gaming should be treated strictly as a form of entertainment. He warned that when gambling is viewed as a means of livelihood, it can lead to harm, including financial stress.
He said: “To avoid harm, when you lose, have the discipline to walk away.” He advised players to gamble responsibly by using only money they can afford to lose, rather than funds meant for essentials such as school fees, rent and groceries.
Dr Chingozha also cautioned against visiting unlicensed gambling sites, noting that participation in illegal gaming activities is an offence under Zimbabwe’s gaming laws.
His remarks come amid reports in Zimbabwe of individuals experiencing severe financial difficulties and instances of suicide linked to gambling losses, issues Dr Chingozha implied could be mitigated through responsible practices.
Looking ahead, the LGB plans to continue awareness campaigns and work with gaming operators to reinforce responsible behaviour in the industry.
