HARARE – Uniformed police officers in Zimbabwe are strictly prohibited from entering betting shops and casinos to gamble, National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi declared at the inaugural H-Metro National Forum On Responsible Betting. The conference, held at Alex Sports Club in Harare, brought together key figures from the country’s rapidly growing betting industry, the Lotteries and Gaming Board, and various government bodies.
The primary message of the conference was a strong call for responsible gambling to avoid the serious consequences of misusing funds, including potential imprisonment for those who abuse funds belonging to employers or other parties.
Commissioner Nyathi’s pronouncement came in response to concerns raised about images circulating on social media depicting uniformed police officers inside betting shops, some appearing to be actively placing bets. He emphasised that such behaviour presents a negative image of the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
While some delegates suggested that the officers might have been conducting compliance checks on unregistered betting operators, Commissioner Nyathi clarified that the police force has a dedicated unit for such tasks, which operates as a team, not through individual officers. He warned that any police officers found gambling in uniform would face disciplinary action. He also cautioned betting shop operators against allowing individuals under the age of 18 to enter their premises and place bets, which is against the law.
Casino operators confirmed that their regulations explicitly prohibit uniformed police officers and soldiers from entering their premises to gamble.
The conference, organised by H-Metro, aimed to bring together all stakeholders to discuss the burgeoning betting industry in Zimbabwe. The event was deemed a resounding success, attracting a full house of representatives from major players in the sector.
The need to regulate and protect gamblers was a key point of agreement among stakeholders during the discussions. It was also agreed that monitoring the sector for public safety, ethical standards, and adherence to national values was crucial.
Zimpapers board member, Mrs Sibly Madzikanda, affirmed the group’s commitment to providing a platform for events related to the industry, while also stressing the importance of responsible gambling.
Ambassador Raphael Faranisi, the Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, emphasised the government’s commitment to fostering a sustainable, well-regulated, and socially accountable gaming ecosystem in Zimbabwe.
“This conference is more than just an assembly of minds; it is a convergence of values, a platform of resolve, and a spark of transformation where we move beyond rhetoric to action and dialogue, as well as creating a more socially responsible gaming sector,” he said in a speech read on his behalf by the ministry’s director, Ms Prisca Madziviridze.
Ambassador Faranisi highlighted the Ministry’s dedication to ensuring a robust and responsive regulatory framework for the gaming industry, aligned with global best practices and the principles of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1). He noted that comprehensive legislative reviews are underway to tighten oversight, curb illicit activity, and stimulate ethical growth.
“The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that the regulatory framework governing the gaming industry is robust, agile, and responsive to global best practices. In tandem with the principles espoused in the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1),” he said.
He also acknowledged the multifaceted socioeconomic impact of gaming in Zimbabwe, noting its contribution to fiscal revenue generation and employment, particularly among the youth. However, he also recognised the societal risks associated with gaming, including gambling harm and financial risks.
Dr Eugenia Chidhakwa, Chairperson of the Lotteries and Gaming Board, highlighted the significant growth of the gaming industry in Zimbabwe, emphasising that the regulatory framework provides a solid foundation for player protection and responsible gaming practices. She noted ongoing efforts to update and enhance the regulatory framework to ensure the industry operates fairly and responsibly.
“The regulatory framework provides a solid foundation for the industry’s development, emphasising player protection and responsible gaming practices,” she said.
Dr Misheck Chingozha, CEO of the Lotteries and Gaming Board, noted the changing perception of gambling, with many now recognising it as a lucrative industry that contributes significantly to economies.
“The view that gambling is evil is fast disappearing, and all and sundry are embracing the view that it is a lucrative industry,” he said.
H-Metro Editor, Robson Sharuko, urged punters to gamble responsibly, acknowledging the industry’s contribution to employment while emphasising the need for responsible practices.
“Those guys who gamble, people say marombe aya, but this is a proper industry. We have to acknowledge that it’s employing thousands of people, but it has to be done responsibly,” he said.
The conference also referenced a recent case where William Gonese, a shift manager at Baker’s Inn, was jailed for 10 years after stealing US$3,420 from his employer to fund his gambling on Kandege (Aviator). While Gonese claimed he wanted to impress his new bride, representatives of the betting industry questioned such claims, suggesting that some individuals use the industry as an excuse for crimes committed elsewhere. They argued that investigations have revealed that many such individuals may not have spent any money in betting shops or on any form of betting.
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