Story by Peter Chivhima
THE government is stepping up efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal casino and betting operators amid concerns over the integrity and regulation of the gaming sector.
The rapid growth of unlicensed gambling activities is reportedly distorting fair competition and undermining public confidence in the industry.
In a bid to restore order and strengthen compliance, the Lotteries and Gaming Board recently held a stakeholder engagement in Harare to map a way forward in addressing unlawful operations.
Chairperson of the Lotteries and Gaming Board, Dr Eugenia Chidhakwa, said collaboration with law enforcement is already underway.
“We have realised that many entities are operating illegally, so we are now working together with the Zimbabwe Republic Police to curb such activities. We are also conducting stakeholder engagements where we educate each other,” she said.
Permanent Secretary in the Corporate Governance Unit in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Mr Allan Choruma, stressed the importance of responsible gambling and sound corporate practices.
“We are advocating for responsible gambling. We also focus on the financial performance of entities and service delivery. Public interest demands that we balance business interests with the needs of people. We are also concerned about preventing money laundering and addressing addiction,” he highlighted.
Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Honourable Kazembe Kazembe, urged the regulator to reinforce its oversight role and maintain close cooperation with enforcement agencies.
“As a Board, you are entrusted with a critical mandate to regulate and control the gaming industry, safeguard public interest, and ensure revenues are channelled towards national development. You are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity, discipline and patriotism. Governance compliance is the true measure of Board performance. You must discharge your duties with diligence, transparency and purpose, upholding integrity without compromise. The Public Entities Corporate Governance Act requires ethical leadership, sound governance and measurable performance,” said Honourable Kazembe.
Authorities say the gaming industry remains a key contributor to national revenue and socio-economic development, making effective regulation critical to its sustainability.
