A recent survey conducted by an Accra based Non Governmental Organization (NGO), Mutual Monitor Foundation has revealed a troubling trend of economic instability which is pushing nearly 30 percent of the Ghanaian youth into high stakes gambling.
This move is to help the youth to make ends meet apparently with the intentions to avoid them from the engagement in antisocial vices.
The findings which were highlighted during the Friday afternoon news bulletin on Hello FM in Kumasi (May 22nd) and monitored by the Correspondent indicated a growing socio-economic crisis of the country.
According to the report, major reasons for this shift are linked to unemployment situations in the country.
The survey data identified individuals aged between 19 and 30 who actively engage in the various forms of gambling particularly the sports betting.
For many gamblers their decisions are not viewed as a hobby but as a source of their survival strategy.
While some respondents pointed to the inability of their current salaries to cover basic living expenses, others openly admit that they view betting platforms as the shortest routes to quick financial gain.
In an environment defined by high unemployment and stagnant wages, the promise of a sudden windfall has become an increasingly attractive albeit risky, yet gamblers consider bettingt as an alternative to traditional employment to make ends meet..
The organization did not provide detailed breakdown of the survey’s methodology nor did it offer a formal mission statement regarding the broader objectives of their research.
Furthermore critics and social observers have noted that a significant gap in the report is the lack of guidance.
The NGO was however short of advising the youth on the dangers of gambling addiction or providing a balanced perspective on the financial risks associated with the betting industry.
