Senator raises alarm over rising underage gambling in Liberia
The Liberian Senate was urged to convene leaders of the Liberia National Lottery Authority following concerns over unregulated gambling operations. The call came after expressed concerns from Amara M. Konneh, Senator for Gbarpolu County. He raised an alarm about underage betting across several counties. According to the senator, the rapid spread of gambling centres now raises serious regulatory and social concerns.
Concerns over underage betting activities
Konneh cited reports indicating that children participate in various betting activities. He referred to a case involving a 13-year-old, which is against the country’s national gambling laws. “Of particular concern are multiple accounts of underage gambling, including a recent case involving a 13-year-old child,” Konneh said. “Liberia’s gambling laws clearly prohibit minors from participating in any form of betting or gaming.”
The senator warned that minors who access gambling facilities face significant social and psychological risks. He said exposure to betting environments could lead to addiction, exploitation and lasting social consequences. Konneh added that such risks threaten what he described as Liberia’s “precious human capital.”
Gambling centres expanding across counties
In a communication read during Senate plenary on Thursday, Konneh highlighted the rapid expansion of gambling outlets. Senate Secretary Nanborlor Singbeh presented the message during the session. Konneh said gambling centres are expanding quickly in Montserrado County, Bong County, Grand Bassa County and Margibi County.
Many of these operations allegedly function outside the regulatory oversight of the national lottery authority. The senator described the situation as alarming, especially amid reports that minors are increasingly participating in gambling activities.
Community concerns over gambling locations
Community members have also raised concerns about the location of gambling centres. Many outlets operate near schools, markets and residential communities.
According to Konneh, these locations increase the likelihood that minors and vulnerable individuals will encounter gambling activities. The proximity of betting outlets to everyday public spaces has intensified concerns among residents.
Senate seeks accountability
Given the seriousness of the situation, Konneh urged the Senate to summon the leadership of the national lottery authority. He requested that the Managing Director of the Liberia National Lottery Authority appear before lawmakers. “Given the seriousness of these developments, I respectfully request plenary’s indulgence to invite the Managing Director of the Liberia National Lottery Authority to appear before the Committee of the Whole,” he said.
Konneh said lawmakers expect answers on several regulatory issues. These include the status of gambling operators and enforcement mechanisms currently in place. Lawmakers also want details on actions taken to prevent underage gambling.
In addition, they seek strategies designed to ensure compliance with Liberia’s gaming laws. “The Senate must receive a clear and comprehensive account of how the Authority is responding to these violations and the additional measures required to protect the public,” he said. Konneh stressed that the issue affects public safety and the credibility of Liberia’s regulatory institutions.
Matter referred to Senate committees
Following the reading of the communication, the Senate plenary voted to refer the matter to several committees. The Committees on Judiciary, Autonomous Commissions and Gender will review the issue. The Gender Committee has been designated as the lead body overseeing the investigation.
These committees will examine the concerns raised and engage the Liberia National Lottery Authority. They are expected to present findings and recommendations to the Senate during a future plenary session.
The bad does not overshadow the good
However, the concerns raised in the Senate do not overshadow the gambling sector’s broader economic role in Liberia. On the other hand, those who are in favour of this industry, including Liberian citizens, claim that these activities are directly responsible for generating revenue for the government and providing jobs. Byron Browne Jr., a Liberian politician, says that the government is able to collect more than three million dollars every year from casinos and betting activities.
At the same time, these activities are responsible for providing jobs to hundreds of Liberians. Advocates therefore stress that stronger regulation, rather than outright restriction, could help protect vulnerable groups while preserving the industry’s economic benefits.
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