Shifeta: Gambling for leisure and not for gain
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GAMBLING problems can happen to anyone when fun turns into an unhealthy obsession with serious consequences, and people should use gambling machines for leisure purposes, not for financial benefit.
Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism Pohamba Shifeta made the remarks during a meeting with northern business communities at Oshakati on the new Gambling and Entertainment Control Act.
He stated that many people spend their whole salaries at gambling houses hoping to make more money, without taking a cent home.
“Gambling addiction is a serious problem that physically, emotionally and economically destroys many people,” he said.
Hence, the ministry will create a system that restricts those addicted to gambling to prevent them from gambling.
Shifeta called on slot machine owners to register their machines to ensure legal ownership and easy tracking of the machines.
The Minister said the government has implemented a law requiring registration of machines upon buying, ensuring people adhere to regulations.
When this law is enforced, misconduct could lead to machines being confiscated and people charged.
Currently, a casino licence is valid for 50 years from the date of issue, while gambling house, bookmaker and totalizator licences are valid for 25 years, subject to payment of annual fees.
Any other licences issued under the Act are valid for one year unless the Board specifies on the licence the duration thereof.
Namibia Local Business Association (NALOBA) spokesperson Peter Amadhila said the new gambling law which requires them to register the machines will leave many people indebted as machines license fees are very high for many people.
Amadhila proposed that the ministry buys machines from the business community with the option to rent the machines from the government.
He also suggested that gambling machines be issued with a disc which is renewed every year.
