Seeing that there was a need to raise education and awareness, I focused entirely on gambling addiction, specifically training organisation and peer mentoring.
iGaming AFRIKA: How does your experience as a gambling addiction and recovery trainer inform your approach to launching Betblocker in new markets like Zambia?
Rinashe Magumise: Raising education and awareness about gambling harms in Zambia is only one part of the Siamese equation. As much as I talk about the problems we are currently facing, there must be a solution to that problem.
Betblocker’s software plays a critical part in helping those who might have a challenge putting a cap on their gambling habits. Better yet, those who are seeking recovery and want to create a better environment for themselves.
This initiative will enhance my training experience as I will be able to recommend Betblocker to those who need it in Zambia.
iGaming AFRIKA: You’ve partnered with Duncan Garvie to bring Betblocker to Zambia. What excites you most about this partnership, and what do you think it brings to the Zambian market?
Rinashe Magumise: Our partnership is a bridge between Europe and Africa. A collaboration like this will help intensify the efforts being made to combat the harms caused by gambling.
Seeing that gambling addiction is a global health crisis, there is an urgent need to use universal and technology-sourced solutions. Betblocker is a trailblazer in that aspect.
Having been in the gambling industry for quite a while, bringing that value into it will allow all stakeholders associated with the gambling industry to benchmark their efforts in combating gambling addiction by adopting a solution that is palatable in local languages.
iGaming AFRIKA: What challenges have you seen firsthand in dealing with gambling addiction in Zambia, and how do you think Betblocker can help address these issues on a societal level?
Rinashe Magumise:: The stigma around gambling addiction is an impending factor. Gambling addiction treatment is still in its infancy in Zambia and most people prefer to hide and suffer in silence instead of seeking help.
In addition to the stigma, there are fewer places people can get help specifically dealing with gambling addiction. More mental health facilities are needed and more organisations need to get on board when it comes to raising education and awareness as far as gambling addiction is concerned.
Software that can help block those who are overwhelmed or overburdened will help in dealing with gambling addiction. It’s a piece of the puzzle needed to complete the recovery jigsaw.
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