South Africa is in the grip of a gambling crisis that threatens families, communities, and the financial stability of millions. Recent figures from the National Gambling Board reveal that gambling turnover soared to R1.5 trillion in the 2024/25 financial year, a staggering 36% increase from the previous year.
This surge, driven largely by online betting, has sparked alarm among policymakers, addiction experts, and civil society. The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation warns that the ease of access to gambling platforms is fueling addiction, financial ruin, and mental health challenges, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Gross gambling revenue climbed from R59 billion to R75 billion, with online betting accounting for 70% of profits (R52.3 billion). While the industry boasts job creation, the social cost is devastating. Reports show a 55% rise in people seeking help for gambling addiction, with cases linked to depression, insomnia, and substance abuse.
What’s more disturbing is the profile of new gamblers: students using NSFAS allowances and pensioners spending social grants. Families are sacrificing essentials like food and education, while gambling operators walk away with billions in profit and pay less than 7% in taxes.
Advertising has normalized gambling, targeting youth through radio, apps, and influencers. This reckless marketing is creating a generation at risk. As a union, NUGRSCWU stands firmly against this exploitation. We call for urgent regulation of online betting platforms, stricter advertising controls, and stronger consumer protection laws.
No country can gamble its way to prosperity. It’s time to put people before profit and protect workers and communities from this growing epidemic.
