Tanzania Gambling Board Warns of Gambling Risks Embedded in PlayStation Games

Gambling Board Issues Parental Advisory Over PlayStation Use

The Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT) has issued a public warning to parents and guardians regarding the growing gambling risks within PlayStation gaming environments. The regulator raised concerns that certain games may be manipulated or used to promote gambling behavior among minors, potentially exposing children to serious harm.

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“Gaming Is Being Weaponized”: GBT Raises Alarm

On August 12, 2025, GBT Acting Director General Daniel Olesumayan addressed several media editors during a meeting at the Treasury Registrar’s office. He stated:

“Some PlayStation games are being modified to enable gambling features. This poses a real threat to our children. Parents must remain vigilant and monitor how their children are using these devices.”

His remarks reflect growing concerns globally around the gamification of gambling via online consoles and platforms, often without the knowledge of guardians. The warning comes as Tanzania’s digital betting sector experiences rapid growth.

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Background: Betting Sector’s Rapid Expansion

The meeting was part of GBT’s broader efforts to educate the public and media about the nature of betting activities and the regulator’s oversight role.

• In the 2024–2025 fiscal year, Tanzania’s betting industry contributed TZS 17.42 billion (~€5.7 million) to national revenue.
• For 2025–2026, this figure is expected to rise to TZS 29.89 billion (~€9.7 million), highlighting ongoing growth in the sector.

GBT has been working to scale its oversight in step with industry expansion, particularly focusing on licensing and safer gambling practices.

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Licensing Surge: Over 14,000 Permits Planned

According to its 2025/26 operational plan, GBT intends to issue 14,124 total licenses, including:

• 845 new licenses
• 13,279 renewals

This reflects the board’s intent to strengthen regulatory control and uphold legal standards across the gaming and betting industry.

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National Campaign for Safer Gambling

Beyond licensing, GBT is also preparing to launch a nationwide awareness campaign on responsible gambling. The initiative aims to:

• Educate young people about the risks of gambling-related harm;
• Encourage safer gaming behavior;
• Raise awareness among parents and guardians.

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Parental Responsibility & Regulatory Vigilance

GBT’s advisory underscores a growing need for parents and guardians to closely monitor children’s interaction with gaming platforms, especially as monetization, loot boxes, and microtransactions increasingly mimic gambling mechanics.