The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has called on various communities and stakeholders to join the conversation around gambling activities.
The Deputy Director of Gaming Control Simeon Iingwapha said gambling activities affect communities; therefore, all stakeholders' voices should be heard.
Kavango East Governor Hamunyera Hambyuka also made reference to the low turnout.
“The hall is nearly empty, and I will leave it at that. I do not know whether these are the only stakeholders who were supposed to be here. During the introductions, I noticed that the majority of those present were visitors. We, the hosts, are few, while the visitors outnumber us. Of course, people may believe that the government has already made up its mind to implement the proposal. However, if that were the case, we would not have gathered here for this consultation.”
The ministry is currently conducting stakeholder workshops countrywide to validate proposed amendments to the gambling control and lotteries act regulations.
Iingwapha explained that validating the proposed amendments is all about protecting everyone involved, including operators, employees, the general public, minors, and vulnerable people.
Some of the proposed amendments include a reduction in certain fees, as well as the registration of employees.
“Those handling money within the business also need to be registered as gambling employees because of the challenges facing the sector. Handling money is no trivial matter, particularly given the concerns surrounding money laundering.”
Very few people attended the validation workshop in Rundu.
However, Iingwapha stated that there should be no shame in discussing gambling activities, emphasising that the government is not seeking to punish the sector but to regulate it.
“Look, the reality is that people are afraid. The gambling industry is viewed with skepticism, as some people consider gambling to be evil. However, people also need to understand that the government is protecting all parties involved, including operators, players, minors, and other vulnerable groups. This is where responsible gambling comes in. Of course, people are not turning up in the numbers we had expected.”
Minors are particularly vulnerable, especially with the rise of online gaming.
“Technology is more advanced than we realise these days. Before you know it, your child could already be playing games or gambling online. That is why we want to regulate online gaming and restrict access to gambling, particularly for underage individuals. We also know that some people are already struggling with gambling addiction, and they should be restricted from participating in gambling activities. Of course, this is an industry that operates worldwide, but it has both advantages and disadvantages.”