The Government has ordered the Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT) to intensify efforts in controlling illegal gambling operations across the country, particularly those targeting youth and operating outside legal frameworks.
Deputy Minister of Finance, Hamad Hassan Chande (MP), issued the directive in Parliament while responding to a question raised by the Member of Parliament for Bagamoyo, Muharami Shabani Mkenge.
The MP had asked whether the Government would consider halting the issuance of licenses for slot machines as a way to address growing youth poverty linked to gambling.
“There has been a worrying increase in the number of unlicensed gambling machines, particularly slot machines, being installed in residential areas, local shops, and rural villages,” said Chande.
“Even more concerning is that these illegal operators allow children under the age of 18 to participate, which is a clear violation of the law.”
The Deputy Minister emphasized the need for strict enforcement of the Gambling Act and other related legislation to protect vulnerable populations, especially young people, from the harmful effects of unregulated gambling.
“To address this issue, the Government has instructed the Gaming Board of Tanzania to conduct regular inspections and closely monitor all gambling activities in the country,” he said. “We must uphold the law and protect our youth from exploitation and moral decay.”
Chande reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that gambling contributes positively to the economy without compromising the wellbeing of citizens.
“The purpose of legal gambling is to generate revenue and create employment in a regulated environment. However, we cannot allow rogue operators to misuse the industry for illegal profit at the expense of society,” he added.
The Gaming Board has been tasked with identifying and shutting down illegal gambling operations, working with local authorities and law enforcement to ensure compliance with national regulations.
This move reflects the Government’s growing concern over the rise of unlawful gambling activities and its potential impact on the social and economic wellbeing of Tanzanians, particularly the youth.