South Africans Urged to Stop Gambling for Survival
As financial pressures continue to mount, many South Africans are turning to gambling in an attempt to ease the burden of economic hardship. Amid soaring unemployment, rising living costs, and shrinking disposable incomes, gambling has become a desperate alternative for some seeking to make ends meet.
This trend, however, has sparked growing concern among authorities and health organisations, especially during July—National Savings Month—when South Africans are encouraged to adopt healthier financial habits and embrace the culture of saving.
While July also celebrates the legacy of the late former President Nelson Mandela, it has become a time for reflecting on personal financial choices.
Government has acknowledged that high unemployment and inflation have made it difficult for families to put money aside. Yet, officials continue to encourage citizens to save what little they can, promising that policies aimed at building a job-creating economy remain a top priority.
Meanwhile, gambling has gained traction among individuals trying to supplement their income. The National Gambling Board (NGB) and the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) have warned against this risky path, noting a concerning rise in gambling-related counselling referrals.
According to the foundation’s Executive Director, Sibongile Simelane-Quntana, the number of people seeking help for gambling issues has grown significantly over the past three financial years. In 2022/23, 2,253 patients were referred for counselling. That number rose to 2,648 in 2023/24 and surged to 4,126 in the current financial year—excluding family referrals.
“Most of the individuals referred are employed adults with a matric qualification. However, the second-highest group referred are the unemployed, showing the level of desperation among citizens,” said Simelane-Quntana.
The foundation offers free and confidential treatment and counselling to individuals and their families affected by problem gambling. It also runs public awareness campaigns and educational programmes, including the “Taking Risks Wisely” initiative in schools, which addresses the growing issue of underage and illegal gambling.
Recently, Parliament deliberated amendments to the National Gambling Act to strengthen the regulation of casinos, limited pay-out machines (LPMs), bingo, and betting. The bill also proposes transferring the regulation of lottery betting to the National Lotteries Commission and introduces stricter oversight and enforcement measures.
The NGB, operating under the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, has cautioned against viewing gambling as a legitimate income stream. The board highlighted that the illusion of quick money can lead to greater financial ruin, especially when individuals borrow money to fuel their gambling habits.
“Gambling cannot be a solution to a financial crisis,” warned Simelane-Quntana. “Borrowing to cover debts only deepens the debt trap.”
Signs of problematic gambling include an obsession with betting, chasing losses, borrowing money to gamble, gambling while distressed, and hiding gambling behaviour from loved ones. Simelane-Quntana urges individuals experiencing these signs to seek help through the foundation’s 24/7 helpline at 0800 006 008.
Marketing of gambling has also intensified. Recent figures show that R2.6 billion was spent on gambling advertising up to March 2025, while a staggering R1.1 trillion was wagered during the 2023/24 financial year. Simelane-Quntana also flagged the prevalence of illegal gambling machines in communities, such as the “Chinese Roulette” games often found in spaza shops.
As Savings Month draws to a close, the foundation reminds South Africans to live within their means, adjust spending when circumstances change, and avoid turning to gambling as a financial lifeline.
“It is never too late to take back control of your finances,” said Simelane-Quntana. “Saving even small amounts and seeking help when needed can pave the way to financial recovery and mental well-being.”