Malawi cracks down on underage gambling with new regulations

The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has introduced stringent new regulations to protect vulnerable populations, including a ban on anyone under the age of 18 participating in gambling activities. The announcement was made by MAGLA Director General Racheal Mijiga at a key regulations sensitization workshop in Mangochi, which was attended by operators, industry experts, and media representatives.

In a statement on their official Facebook account, MAGLA declared: “Children under the age of 18 are not allowed. This is a stand against exposing and allowing children into gambling premises.” 

Mijiga reinforced this message during the workshop, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding minors from the harmful effects of gambling. She warned that individuals found in violation of this rule would face severe consequences, including a fine of K20 million ($11,530 USD).

As part of the revised regulations, operators are encouraged to launch awareness campaigns that educate the public, particularly the youth, about the risks of gambling. The new framework includes sports betting regulations, national lottery regulations, player protection regulations, internet gaming regulations, advertisement regulations, and the implementation of an electronic monitoring system. This system mandates the integration of all operators to promote compliance and enhance transparency throughout the sector.