Staff Writer
Online gambling is becoming a growing concern among young people, with more women affected as betting platforms expand through smartphones and social media.
Psychologists and counsellors say easy access to betting apps and online advertising has normalised gambling among youth, many of whom face unemployment and financial pressure.
Psychologist Margaret Liswaniso said the pattern of gambling has shifted in recent years.
“What we are seeing is not just casual betting anymore,” she said. “For some young women, gambling has become a coping mechanism for stress and economic frustration. They are less likely to seek help early because of stigma.”
Liswaniso said gambling in the Zambezi region once affected mostly adults who used jackpot machines in shebeens and clubs. That has changed.
“Today, many young women and even underage girls and boys have smartphones where they download betting applications or gamble online,” she said. “While they may not call it gambling, many have developed addictive behaviours, and this has raised serious concern.”
She referred to a recent case where a minor lost N$8 000 meant for school expenses.
“When the money was finished, instead of seeking professional help, the child became suicidal,” Liswaniso said. “It is very concerning to see how quickly this behaviour escalates.”
She called for stronger regulation to limit access to online betting platforms, especially for minors.
“It is a challenging request, but action must be taken. The problem is spreading and having serious implications for our youth,” she said.
Industry data shows the gambling sector generated nearly N$948 million in revenue in 2025, with online gaming forming a growing share. Research shows that 19% of Namibians aged 15–24 and 47% of those aged 25–34 reported taking part in gambling activities in a recent study.
Although more men gamble overall, experts say the impact on women often receives less attention.
A 25-year-old resident of Hochland, who asked to remain anonymous, said she started betting socially on football matches before losing control.
“At first it was entertainment. Then I started spending money meant for transport and groceries,” she said. “You keep thinking the next win will fix everything.”
She said an early win encouraged her to continue.
“The first time I tried betting on bingo, I won N$5 000. Instead of withdrawing it, I kept playing, hoping to win more. The money was gone within 30 minutes,” she said.
Another young woman said she hides her losses from her family.
“The apps make it easy. You don’t feel the money leaving because it’s just numbers on a screen,” she said. “But when rent is due, reality hits.”
Social worker Salushando Muleki said gambling addiction can destabilise households. She said financial strain can lead to anxiety, conflict and debt.
“Young people who are already economically vulnerable are particularly at risk. The accessibility of online platforms has made it easier for harmful patterns to develop unnoticed,” she said.
“Addiction thrives in silence. By the time individuals seek help, they have often lost significant amounts of money and confidence. Awareness and early intervention are critical,” Muleki said.
Tourism Minister Indileni Daniel told Parliament last year that the Gaming and Entertainment Control Act contains measures to address compulsive gambling and prevent underage participation. She said the government is working to improve monitoring systems.
However, social workers say regulation alone will not solve the problem.
