Archive · 28 Dec 2025
Gambling Surge Drives Youth Suicides in Africa
In many African countries, young people are turning to online gambling in the hope of winning big money.
However, this has led to serious problems.
Many young people are losing their savings, taking out loans, and even committing suicide because of their gambling debts.
In Mozambique, for example, at least 10 young people died by suicide last year due to gambling losses.
The country has seen a rise in online betting, with thousands of people placing bets every hour.
While betting companies make a lot of money, critics say the government should do more to protect young people from the harmful effects of gambling.
Some organizations are working to help those addicted to gambling, but more needs to be done to address this growing problem.
At least 10 young people in Mozambique died by suicide in 2023 due to gambling debts.
Online gambling is surging in Africa, with 25,000 people placing bets every hour in Mozambique.
Young people, who make up 60% of the population, are particularly vulnerable to gambling addiction.
Betting companies pay influencers and run ads to attract more gamblers, despite the harm caused.
Critics call for stronger regulations to protect gamblers and limit the operations of betting companies.
- Who
- Young people in Mozambique and other African countries
- What
- A surge in online gambling, particularly sports betting, is leading to financial losses, debts, and suicides among young people
- When
- The issue has been ongoing, with recent data from 2023 to 2025
- Where
- Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and East Africa
- Why
- The hope of winning money and the lack of employment opportunities drive young people to gamble, leading to a cycle of debt and despair
- Country
- Mozambique
- Average Income
- $650 per year
- Gambling Deaths (2023)
- 10
- Online Gamblers
- 25,000 per hour
- Minimum Stake
- $0.15 to $0.30
- Youth Population
- 60% under 24
- Unemployment Rate
- 20%
- Tax Revenue (2025)
- $17 million