Dozens of emaSwati, including civil servants, are reportedly receiving treatment at the Psychiatric Hospital in Manzini as concerns grow over the impact of unregulated online gambling in the country.

According to reports, some of the patients are believed to be victims of “Indiza,” a form of online gambling in which they lost significant amounts of money while attempting to improve their financial situation.

The rise in gambling-related admissions has raised fresh concerns about the social and mental health consequences of unregulated betting, particularly as economic pressures continue to push more people toward high-risk gambling activities in the hope of earning quick income.

Mental health experts and healthcare workers have increasingly warned that excessive gambling can lead to severe emotional distress, anxiety, depression, financial hardship, and strained family relationships. They say early intervention, public awareness, and stronger regulation are essential to reducing the growing burden on healthcare facilities.

Mayibongwe Masangwane, President of the Swaziland Democratic Nurses Union (SWADNU), confirmed the growing gambling-related health crisis.

“It’s true, there’s a growing number of gambling patients not only at the Psychiatric Hospital but even in the other hospitals because there are units responsible for treating those patients. We understand that maybe it’s because of economic hardships, but we would like to warn emaSwati that gambling is a huge health risk,” Masangwane said.

His remarks come amid increasing calls for authorities to strengthen oversight of online gambling and introduce measures to promote responsible gambling, as concerns mount over its impact on public health and vulnerable communities.