A newly elected member of Senegal‘s 15th legislature has raised serious concerns about the surge in online sports betting advertisements targeting minors. As December 16th, parliamentary committees have been in session, providing a platform for Abdoul Ahad Ndiaye to formally question the government on this issue.
Ndiaye’s written inquiry highlights the aggressive marketing tactics employed by online sports betting companies, notably their use of social media and prominent influencers on platforms like TikTok. He stated, “These practices, amplified by the influence of social networks and public figures such as certain TikTok influencers, put our young people at serious risk.”
The lawmaker emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging the government to act swiftly. He noted, “The excess of online sports betting in Senegal is worrying. The volume of players and the companies that carry out this activity are increasing due to the combination of very strong advertising,particularly on the stories in advertisements targeting young people,particularly those in our schools.”
Ndiaye further warned about the potential consequences for Senegal’s youth. ”These commercial practices, fueled by TikTok influencers and its popular personalities, present a danger for youth who are our key human capital for equitable development and Vision 2050,” he stressed. He also highlighted the public health implications,stating,”The risks associated with these practices,such as dependence and loss of financial resources,make them a public health issue.Online commercial advertisements are omnipresent and take advantage of the codes of the younger generation to involve them in these games of chance. The saturation of public and media spaces seems to bring good returns in terms of sports betting. But at what cost to our society?”
In his inquiry, Ndiaye directly questioned the government’s plans to address this problem. He asked, “What measures does the government intend to take to regulate the advertising of online sports betting, in particular by limiting their presence in places and platforms frequented by minors? Why not simply ban the advertising of these sites in spaces where young people and minors can be exposed, such as schools, social networks or television channels accessible to all at certain times? Do our current laws sufficiently reflect the impact that these advertising practices can have on young people and the most vulnerable? Would you consider strengthening legislation in this area, and in particular strengthening sanctions against companies?”
This situation mirrors concerns in the United States, where similar debates are ongoing regarding the regulation of online gambling and the protection of minors from predatory advertising. The increasing prevalence of social media marketing and influencer culture adds another layer of complexity to this issue globally.
senegal parliament Tackles Surge in Online Sports Betting Targeting Minors
A newly elected member of Senegal’s parliament is raising concerns about the aggressive marketing tactics employed by online sports betting companies, particularly their use of TikTok influencers to target vulnerable youth.This issue reflects growing global concerns about the regulation of online gambling and the protection of minors.
Interview with Dr. Aminata Ba, director of the Center for Responsible Gaming in Dakar
Senior Editor: Dr. Ba, a newly elected member of Senegal’s parliament, Abdoul Ahad Ndiaye, has formally questioned the government about the surge in online sports betting ads targeting minors. what are your thoughts on this issue?
Dr. Ba: This is definitely a pressing issue. We’ve witnessed a rapid increase in online sports betting platforms in Senegal, and the advertising, particularly on social media, often uses tactics that directly appeal to young people. This is deeply concerning as young people are more susceptible to the allure of rapid riches and are less likely to fully grasp the risks involved.
Regulation and Legislation:
Senior Editor: Ndiaye is calling for stricter regulations on these ads,especially regarding their presence on platforms frequented by minors. Do you think current laws are sufficient to address this problem?
Dr. Ba: Our current legislation needs strengthening. While ther are laws surrounding gambling, they haven’t kept pace with the rapid evolution of online platforms and marketing strategies. We need clearer guidelines on advertising content, placement, and target audiences. Banning ads on platforms heavily used by minors could be a vital step.
Impact on Senegalese Youth:
Senior Editor: Ndiaye emphasizes the potential negative consequences for Senegal’s youth, citing issues like addiction and financial loss. How important a threat do you see this posing to young people in Senegal?
Dr. Ba: This is a serious public health concern. The accessibility of online betting coupled with targeted advertising can lead to problem gambling, debt, and other social problems, especially among young people who may be more impulsive and vulnerable to addiction.
Social Media and Influencer Culture:
senior Editor: The use of TikTok influencers in these ads is particularly worrying. How does this influencer culture contribute to the problem?
Dr. Ba: Influencers build trust with their followers, and when they endorse gambling, it carries significant weight. Young people may see it as a stamp of approval and feel pressured to participate. This blurring of lines between entertainment and advertising is particularly troubling.
Global Comparisons:
Senior Editor: Similar debates are happening in other countries, including the United States. Do you think Senegal can learn from the experiences of other nations in tackling this issue?
Dr. Ba: Absolutely. We can learn from the successes and failures of other countries. Looking at best practices in terms of regulation, public awareness campaigns, and support systems for those struggling with problem gambling is crucial.
