Pool Betting Becomes a Lifeline for Zim's Unemploy...

Pool Betting Becomes a Lifeline for Zim's Unemployed Youths

Witness Runodada- Zim Now Reporter

In the bustling suburbs of Zimbabwe, pool betting has become more than just a pastime—it is now a source of income for many unemployed youths.

With limited job opportunities, some have turned to pocket billiards, commonly known as pool or snooker, as their daily hustle.

For these young players, the game is not just about entertainment but a means of survival. A token to play costs just US$0.50, and bets start at as little as US$1.

The earnings, though unpredictable, are enough to sustain them and their families. Many of them travel from one location to another, betting against different opponents to maximise their chances of winning.

Fifteen-year-old Leeroy, one of the youngest pool players, shared how he ended up in the game. "We dropped out of school because our families couldn’t afford fees and other basic needs.

Staying at home with nothing to do, we started playing pocket billiards for fun, but it soon turned into a way to make money," he said.

The mobility of these players is strategic. According to Tinotenda Makarima, another young player from Glenview, constantly moving helps them find new opponents who are willing to bet. "Where we come from, people no longer want to bet against us because they already know the outcome. So, we move to different places, which not only helps us earn but also improves our skills," he explained.

Superstition also plays a role in the game, as some players refuse to share their pool sticks. They believe that allowing others to use their cue could bring bad luck and affect their performance.

For many of these youths, pocket billiards has become their only viable source of income. Some, like one unnamed player, have even abandoned education altogether.

"I tried to focus on school, but I wasn't good at it. Then I realized my talent is in playing pool. Now, I make money and help my family with household expenses," he said.