Over the past decade, the popularity of betting, particularly sports betting, has surged among Ghanaian youth. The proliferation of online betting pla
Over the past decade, the popularity of betting, particularly sports betting, has surged among Ghanaian youth. The proliferation of online betting platforms and physical betting centres, often located close to schools and youth-friendly spaces, has made gambling increasingly accessible. While it is often perceived as a harmless form of entertainment or a quick means of making money, the practice has far-reaching consequences that affect the mental health, education, economic stability, and social well-being of young people in Ghana. Here, Boaitey discusses the negative impacts of betting and how those addicted can battle it.
1. Mental Health and Psychological Effects
One of the most significant impacts of betting is the toll it takes on mental health. A study conducted in Ghana’s Volta Region found that nearly 48% of youth involved in sports betting experience some form of psychological distress. This includes:
Anxiety stemming from financial losses and addiction.
Depression due to repeated failures and loss of hope.
Stress related to hiding betting habits from family or juggling them with school responsibilities.
The correlation between problem gambling and poor mental health is especially pronounced among young males. Many bettors suffer silently due to stigma and a lack of access to mental health services.
2. Disruption of Educational Pursuits
Betting has increasingly become a threat to the educational ambitions of Ghanaian students. Recent reports reveal:
At Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), over 6,000 students deferred their academic programs in 2023 after using tuition and hostel fees for betting.
Some university and high school students are reportedly skipping classes to visit betting centres or follow online games.
This not only leads to poor academic performance but also undermines national efforts to provide quality and equitable education (SDG 4). The trend is alarming because it shifts student focus from long-term academic goals to short-term financial gambles.
3. Underage Gambling and Early Exposure
Despite regulations set by Ghana’s Gaming Act 2006, which prohibit persons under the age of 18 from gambling, underage betting remains widespread. Surveys have shown:
About 40.6% of people who engage in betting in Ghana are under 18 years old.
Some begin gambling as early as 10 years old, often influenced by peers, media advertisements, and the visible success stories of other bettors.
This early exposure increases the likelihood of long-term addiction, poor decision-making habits, and vulnerability to criminal behaviour.
4. Economic Consequences
For many youths, betting appears as a solution to Ghana’s high youth unemployment and economic hardship. However, it often leads to:
Financial losses: Many young people use money meant for food, transport, or fees to gamble.
Debt accumulation: Some borrow money from friends or use mobile loans to place bets.
Loss of productivity: Instead of focusing on skill development or job opportunities, time is spent analysing bets and watching games.
Rather than being a solution, betting frequently deepens financial instability among the youth.
5. Moral and Behavioural Implications
The betting culture also affects the moral fabric of society. Youths are increasingly drawn to the belief that success can be achieved through luck rather than hard work. This mindset fosters:
A decline in work ethic and academic seriousness.
Risk-taking behaviours and dishonesty (e.g., stealing to bet).
Suicide and extreme emotional responses after significant losses.
Some Ghanaian youths bet an average of 26 cedis per week, while others spend even more. In severe cases, betting losses have driven individuals to self-harm or suicide.
6. Public Health and Social Issues
The spread of betting among the youth presents a serious public health concern. It is associated with:
Substance abuse, particularly alcohol and drugs, is often used to cope with betting-related stress.
Poor social relationships, especially with family members and friends.
Lack of participation in healthy recreational or community activities.
Youth who gamble frequently may isolate themselves, leading to loneliness and increased vulnerability to mental health issues.
7. Policy and Regulatory Gaps
Ghana’s legal framework currently prohibits underage betting and regulates gambling operators. However, enforcement remains weak:
Betting centres operate close to schools and in public markets.
Mobile apps allow minors to bet without proper age verification.
Advertising of betting products remains widespread and often targets youth.
There is a clear need for stronger regulation, public awareness campaigns, and support systems to curb the growing betting crisis.
Recommendations
To address the negative impacts of betting on Ghanaian youth, the following actions are recommended:
1. Strengthen Law Enforcement: Enforce existing laws that restrict underage betting and regulate the location of betting centres.
2. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate the public, especially youth, on the dangers of betting through schools, churches, and media.
3. Introduce School-Based Programs: Include financial literacy and anti-gambling education in school curricula.
4. Support Services: Provide counselling and rehabilitation services for problem gamblers.
5. Research and Monitoring: Conduct regular studies to monitor the prevalence and effects of gambling among youth.
Conclusion
Betting among Ghanaian youths is a growing problem with significant implications for mental health, education, economic well-being, and societal values. What often begins as a casual hobby or perceived financial shortcut can quickly spiral into addiction and long-term hardship. Addressing this issue requires a coordinated effort from government agencies, educators, parents, community leaders, and youth themselves. Only through sustained education, regulation, and support can Ghana protect its future generation from the dangers of gambling.
By: Boaitey Kwasi Dickson
Juaben Constituency Youth Organiser, NPP
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