Traditional forms of gambling in Africa often involved activities such as dice games, tribal rituals, and betting on local events, with a strong cultural and communal significance. A lot has since changed and the gambling industry in Africa has significantly transformed itself.

Technology advancements have been a major factor in this transformation because they have changed attitudes and norms about online gambling consumption while also making gambling more accessible to the general public, including some of the most vulnerable groups, such as the poor and the underage.

In 2021, the total revenue from mobile gaming in the three largest African gambling markets (South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria) was placed in the region of about half a billion US dollars from mobile betting activities alone, and this figure is expected to grow further.

While it is true that the growth of the African gambling industry has provided an additional revenue stream to governments, it has brought a range of gambling harms in Africa.

Contemporary gambling and sports betting culture in Rwanda has witnessed significant growth and transformation in recent years. The country has embraced digital technologies, leading to a proliferation of online betting platforms, accessible through smartphones and computers.

This accessibility has contributed to the increasing popularity of sports betting, particularly among the younger male demographic. The emergence of partnerships between sports leagues and betting companies, as well as the integration of virtual sports and e-sports betting, reflects the evolving trends in the Rwandan gambling landscape. It is essential for Rwanda to continue monitoring and regulating this industry to strike a balance between economic opportunities and social responsibility.

The growth of the gambling industry in Africa has undeniably generated economic benefits, including job creation and increased tax revenue for governments. However, it is crucial to recognise the adverse impact on the wellbeing of individuals, families, communities, and society as a whole.

First and foremost, gambling can have severe consequences on individual wellbeing. Problem gambling often leads to financial distress, causing individuals to accumulate significant debts, which can result in stress, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal tendencies.

The addictive nature of gambling can also disrupt personal relationships, leading to strained family dynamics and the breakdown of support systems, thus negatively affecting the emotional and psychological health of individuals.

On a broader scale, the negative effects of gambling ripple through families and communities. Families may suffer the brunt of the financial strain, which can lead to domestic disputes and a reduced quality of life.

The welfare of children within such households can be compromised, with potentially long-lasting emotional and developmental repercussions. At the community level, the prevalence of gambling can exacerbate issues related to social inequality and poverty, as vulnerable individuals may be drawn into a cycle of addiction, further straining public resources and social services.

Moreover, the normalisation of gambling within society can erode ethical and moral values, potentially fostering a culture that values luck and chance over hard work and responsible financial management, thus affecting the overall societal wellbeing.

Therefore, while the economic benefits of the gambling industry are significant, it is essential for governments and communities to acknowledge and address the detrimental impacts on the health and wellbeing of individuals and society at large.

Sports betting has emerged as the predominant form of gambling among bettors in Rwanda. This trend is indicative of a significant cultural shift, with sports betting gaining widespread popularity across the country.

The ease of access to online betting platforms, particularly through smartphones, has played a pivotal role in this phenomenon, as it allows individuals to conveniently place bets on a wide array of local and international sporting events.

The excitement and anticipation associated with sports competitions, coupled with the potential for monetary gains, have made sports betting a favoured pastime for many Rwandans.

The surge in sports betting can also be attributed to a complex interplay of various factors. Among these, unemployment and economic hardship play a significant role especially in younger people, as individuals may turn to betting in search of financial relief or quick gains during challenging economic times.

The pursuit of enjoyment and the passion for sport, especially professional football, attract many to the world of sports betting, as it adds an extra layer of excitement and engagement to their favourite sports events.

Additionally, peer group influence often plays a substantial role, with friends and social circles contributing to the normalisation of betting activities. Parental gambling can influence younger generations, setting a precedent for betting behaviour.

The prevalence of commercial advertisements, especially in the digital era, contributes to the growth of sports betting, making it more accessible and appealing to a wider audience. This ease of access, coupled withinadequate macro-level regulatory measures, may create an environment where betting becomes less restricted, potentially leading to excessive or irresponsible gambling practices.

Altogether, these drivers reflect the multifaceted nature of the rise in sports betting, emphasising the importance of a balanced approach to regulation and public awareness to mitigate potential adverse consequences.

Dr Vincent Mutabazi is an applied epidemiologist.

X: @VkneeM