A CONCERNED youth from Kalomo District of Southern Province has appealed to President Hakainde Hichilema to consider banning a betting app called Aviator, popularly known as Kandeke.
In an interview, Eraston Gwangwazu said even other betting sites needed to be banned but emphasised on getting rid of Aviator first.
The 34 year old father of two explained that being an ex gambler himself, he was aware of the many negative impacts that come with gambling.
“Some people have landed themselves in problems… Sometimes they take their own lives. I have been betting myself, sometimes, I win, sometimes, I lose. I have observed that it has taken a lot of money from me more than I have taken money from it,” he told Kalemba.
“Youths are now stealing, you send your child to buy mealie meal, they decide to use it on Aviator. I have also used someone’s money before. You also become addicted to it. Even marriages are breaking because of the Kandeke.”
He acknowledged that the country benefits from betting companies through taxes and other contributions but the harm caused by such platforms, especially Aviator, far outweighs the benefits.
“Many young people have fallen into deep poverty, debt and depression due to gambling on Aviator. When they lose their money, they are left hopeless.”
“I have observed that this betting game is destroying our youth and the future of our nation, I hope the President hears my cry and I know there are so many others who would want this game banned,” said Gwangwazu.
“Families are breaking apart, public institutions and workplaces are being affected as workers become addicted to gambling and depression among young people is rising at an alarming rate.”
“Unless strong measures are taken under your leadership, we risk losing more young lives and undermining the productivity of our nation. Mr. President, we cannot build our economy through gambling; true wealth comes from hard work, innovation, and productivity,” he explained.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, September 8, 2025
