MIDDELBURG – The Mpumalanga Economic Regulator (MER) has raised concern over the growing number of learners accessing illegal online betting platforms using tablets and cellphones as it rolls out an awareness campaign on underage gambling and alcohol consumption across schools in the Nkangala District.
The campaign, which began on Monday, 27 July, forms part of MER's efforts to educate learners about the dangers of underage gambling, underage alcohol consumption and other social challenges, while encouraging them to make informed decisions about their future.
The awareness drive started at L.D. Moetanalo Secondary School, Ekwazini Secondary School and Mphanama Secondary School in Mhluzi, Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, after the Nkangala District Department of Education identified the schools as hotspots for underage gambling, alcohol consumption and related social challenges.
According to MER Chief Executive Officer Vusi Mtsweni, previous engagements revealed an emerging trend of learners accessing unlicensed online betting platforms through tablets, mobile phones and other digital devices.
"These engagements have revealed an emerging trend where some learners access unlicensed online betting platforms using tablets, mobile phones and other digital devices," Mtsweni said.
He said the increasing exposure to online gambling highlights the need to educate learners about the legal prohibition of underage gambling and the dangers of using unregulated betting platforms operating outside South Africa's regulatory framework.
During the sessions, learners were educated about the dangers of underage gambling and alcohol consumption, including addiction, poor academic performance and increased exposure to crime. They were also encouraged to avoid gambling traps and informed about support services available to those affected by gambling addiction.
The campaign is being conducted in partnership with the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF), the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Mpumalanga Department of Education and Miss Mpumalanga 2026, Masibulele Mndebele, who serves as MER's ambassador.
Mtsweni said the SARGF offers free counselling and early intervention programmes for individuals affected by gambling addiction.
The awareness drive continued on Tuesday, 28 July, at Swartklip Combined School, Sundra High School and Botleng Secondary School in the Victor Khanye Local Municipality, where learners were reminded that gambling and alcohol consumption are illegal for anyone under the age of 18.
Learners were encouraged to resist peer pressure, make responsible decisions and pursue positive lifestyles, while educators were reminded of their role in protecting learners from exposure to age-restricted products and gambling-related activities.
The campaign continued from 29 to 31 July in the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, where the team visited Matimba Secondary School, King Makhosonke Secondary School, Ndzundza Mabhoko Secondary School, Senzangakhona Secondary School, Zipha Khamiseni Secondary School, Vezikgono Secondary School and Vezibuhle Secondary School.
Further visits are planned for Mehlwana Secondary School in Phola, Ogies, as well as Coronation Secondary School and Pine Ridge Secondary School in Emalahleni on 18 and 19 August. On 19 August, the campaign will visit Ukukhanya Secondary School in Libangeni before concluding at Khayalami Secondary School, Morelig, and Emakhazeni Boarding School from 20 to 21 August.
MER said the programme previously ran in the Ehlanzeni District during 2025 and earlier this year as part of a broader provincial strategy to protect young people from the social and economic harm associated with gambling and substance abuse.
The regulator defines illegal gambling as any gambling activity conducted without a MER licence, including operating illegal gambling machines and allowing persons under the age of 18 to gamble. It warned that unlicensed gambling machines pose an even greater risk because they lack the age-verification measures required of licensed operators.
Mndebele urged learners to prioritise their education rather than gambling.
"Gambling might look like a quick way to get money, but it is a trap that destroys dreams. Many young people lose their school fees, their data, and even their future chasing a win that rarely comes.
"As learners, your focus should be on your books, your talent and building a career. Gambling leads to addiction, debt and broken families. Don't gamble with your future — invest in it."
MER said it remains committed to working with its partners to build safer schools, empower young people and protect vulnerable groups from the harmful effects of gambling and substance abuse.
