Unemployment, Hustling and Waithood: Exploring Zimbabwean Urban Make Youth’s Utilisation of ICT in Soccer Betting

Abstract

This paper delves into the phenomenon of soccer betting among urban male youth in Zimbabwe, who have increasingly come to rely on it to make ends meet in the face of rapid urbanisation and economic challenges. The study adopts ethnographic methods, including participant and non-participant observations, informal conversations, and betting experimentation, to shed light on this emerging trend. The research uncovers that young Zimbabwean men employ their skills and knowledge, such as research, networking, and their understanding of soccer betting, to boost their earnings through informal economic activities while waiting for more stable employment opportunities. Furthermore, the study highlights the intellectual savvy and resourcefulness of these young men as they leverage their digital and networking skills to make informed betting decisions. The article concludes by underscoring the role of soccer betting not only in Zimbabwe's economies of hustle, leisure, and waithood but also in the adoption of ICT products and digital skills among male youth. This trend highlights the importance of understanding how young people adapt to changing economic and social environments and the role that technology plays in shaping these adaptations. In sum, this research provides a nuanced perspective on the complex interplay between technology, betting, and economic survival among urban male youth in Zimbabwe.