The United Democratic Movement, UDM has raised concern about the rapid growth of the online betting industry. The party warns that gambling has become a mechanism of mass economic extraction that drains households and deepens poverty. The UDM is particularly concerned about reports of students using their National Student Financial Aid Scheme allowances to gamble online. The UDM is demanding that the government regulate online gambling platforms, restrict advertising and provide support for those affected by addiction. They are also calling for the issue to be discussed at the National Dialogue to develop coordinated solutions to protect vulnerable citizens. Elvis Presslin spoke to UDM Acting Secretary General, Zandile Phiri