Malawi police and MAGLA launch Central West campaign to curb underage gambling

The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority and Central West Region Police say the new drive will focus on school outreach and community education, warning that gambling by minors is illegal and can derail education.

Authorities in Malawi’s Central West Region have launched a joint campaign with the Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) aimed at stopping children from taking part in gambling and betting activities.

Speaking at the launch, Central West Region Police Commissioner Mavuto M’bobo said early exposure to gambling can damage school performance and may push some minors into petty crime as they try to fund gambling habits.

MAGLA spokesperson Nancy Malata reiterated that minors are not permitted to gamble and urged parents and guardians to monitor children’s behaviour both online and offline.

The campaign is expected to run through schools and local communities via outreach sessions, workshops and public awareness efforts, as regulators and police look to tighten prevention before underage gambling becomes a longer-term social harm. For operators and retail outlets, the message is clear: age-checks and on-premise controls are moving higher up the enforcement agenda.