Mr Thimble

What is Mr Thimble?

When asked what issue requires the most attention, Kesitilwe highlights underage gambling, especially as mobile penetration in Africa continues to soar.

Particularly concerning to Kesitilwe is the amount of gambling advertising in sports-related content.

“At a break or at half time you see 10 to 20 [gambling] adverts,” he says. “It’s come to a point that oftentimes I even hear my kids singing [gambling adverts]. They’ll just keep asking, ‘But Daddy, what is this? What does this mean?’

About Mr Thimble

We will accept admissions via this form until 1 October. Please do nominate all the impressive women around you, including peers, friends, colleagues, bosses, partners and even yourselves!

Initiatives like MIW help the sector shine a light on those championing change and charting the industry’s next big movements.

Kyle has been with Clarion since December 2023, joining from the world of sports journalism, subsequently becoming a LatAm-facing senior reporter with iGB.

How to play Mr Thimble

The ASA reviewed whether the ads were directed at under-18s through their placement or content. Its rules prohibit advertising through media where more than 25% of the audience is likely to be under 18. 

While the audience data did not conclusively define the website’s age demographics, the regulator noted small percentages of under-18s in HLTV’s social channels but found the website’s content and presentation clearly targeted adults.

Ultimately, the ASA ruled that the ads did not breach CAP Code rules 16.1 or 16.3.13 and took no further action.