The National Gambling Board (NGB) of South Africa has issued a warning to citizens, emphasizing that betting should not be viewed as a solution to financial difficulties, especially as unemployment rates continue to rise in the country.
In a statement released on Thursday, the NGB urged South Africans to approach gambling with caution, suggesting it be seen primarily as a form of entertainment rather than a means to escape economic struggles.
According to the latest data from Statistics South Africa (StatsSA), the unemployment rate increased from 32.7% in the first quarter to 33.6% in the second quarter of 2026.
Lungile Dukwana, the acting CEO of the NGB, noted that with rising financial pressures on households, individuals should prioritize their basic needs before spending money on gambling. "The latest figures highlight the difficult circumstances facing many South African households, and during times such as these, every rand matters," Dukwana remarked.
He advised, "Food, accommodation, transport, education, and debt repayments must come before gambling. If you choose to participate, only use money that remains after your essential commitments have been met and only gamble what you can afford to lose. Protect the money you have to sustain your family."
This caution is especially relevant for the youth in South Africa, as highlighted by the StatsSA survey, which found that 36.4% of individuals aged 15-24 are neither employed nor engaged in education or training.
The NGB also referenced its own study, the 2023/24 Socio-Economic Impact of Gambling in South Africa, indicating that those aged 25 to 34 are more likely to participate in gambling.
Notably, the study showed that 54% of gamblers indicated they utilize winnings to purchase essential household items, while 43% rely on gambling profits to settle debts or bills. Observing the high levels of economic exclusion among young people, the NGB strongly cautioned against considering gambling as a potential source of income.
"We recognize the heavy burdens facing young people across the country. Our message is not one of judgment, but of protection," Dukwana emphasized. "Gambling is an uncertain activity, and there is no guarantee of winning. It should never replace the pursuit of sustainable employment, education, or other legitimate opportunities for economic participation."
Additionally, the NGB reminded the public to only gamble with licensed operators. It emphasized the importance of its Verified Gambling Operators Web Portal, which allows users to confirm the licensing status of gambling operators before placing bets. Dukwana previously noted that this portal represents South Africa's first comprehensive effort to centralize information on both land-based and select online gambling licenses.
