# Towards Understanding Contemporary Gambling Advertising in Sub‐Saharan Africa

## TL;DR

Gambling ads are becoming widespread in sub-Saharan Africa, affecting social norms and public health, and need stronger regulation.

## Contribution

The paper offers contemporary insights into gambling advertising's influence and advocates for effective regulation in sub-Saharan Africa.

## Key findings

- Gambling advertising is influencing social norms and attitudes in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Lack of regulation threatens public health as gambling becomes a growing industry in the region.

## Abstract

Gambling advertising has become ubiquitous in sub‐Saharan Africa influencing social norms and attitudes towards gambling. The delay or failure of governments to effectively regulate gambling advertising poses a significant threat to public health. This article provides contemporary insights into gambling advertising, its forms, mechanics and influence on gambling behaviour. It provides contextual understanding to policy‐makers, health advocates and public health actors, including a call to action for effective regulation. With sub‐Saharan Africa becoming important to the gambling industry for market growth and profits, there is the need for public health actors to instigate advocacy for strong regulations and enforcement of gambling advertising.