By OBAKENG MAJE
5 October 2026 – The North West Gambling Board (NWGB) in partnership with the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), is launching a multi-stakeholder awareness and compliance campaign to promote responsible gambling and combat illegal gambling in the province.
The campaign will also focus on addressing non-compliance in the liquor industry and raising awareness among young people about the dangers associated with alcohol abuse and illegal gambling.
The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said the campaign was aimed at strengthening compliance while educating communities, particularly young people, about the social and economic consequences of irresponsible gambling and alcohol abuse. Lenkopane said they are taking this awareness and compliance campaign directly to the communities and young people to strengthen responsible conduct, combat illegal gambling and promote adherence to the regulatory framework.
“The campaign will include an awareness walk promoting healthy lifestyles, youth engagement sessions and activities aimed at addressing liquor- and gambling-related challenges affecting communities.
“Key regulatory stakeholders, including the NWGB and the North West Liquor Licensing Authority will be part of the campaign. The first phase will take place on 6 October 2026, with an awareness walk and student engagement programme at North West University (NWU) starting at 7am.
“The second phase will include the Ikageng Programme at Ikageng Stadium in Potchefstroom on 9 October 2026, from 7am, as well as the North West Gambling Board Underage Prevention Advocacy Soccer Tournament at Montshioa Stadium from 8am on the same day,” she said.
Lenkopane further said collaboration between government, regulatory bodies, educational institutions and communities was important in preventing illegal gambling and protecting young people from its potential social and economic consequences.
She added: “Our engagement with students and communities is an important part of ensuring that young people have the information and awareness we need to make responsible choices and understand the risks associated with illegal gambling and alcohol abuse.”
