South Africa’s National Gambling Board has urged consumers to treat betting as entertainment rather than a source of income. This comes as rising unemployment puts greater financial pressure on households.
The National Gambling Board (NGB) has warned South Africans against using gambling to address financial difficulties. This follows a rise in the country’s unemployment rate.
In a statement released on Thursday, the NGB called on consumers to “exercise caution” when gambling. It stressed that betting should not become a way to overcome financial hardship.
According to Statistics South Africa (StatsSA), unemployment reached 33.6% in Q2 2026, up from 32.7% in Q1. This highlights the growing financial pressures facing households.
Lungile Dukwana, acting CEO of the NGB, said consumers should prioritise essential expenses before allocating money to gambling.
“The latest figures highlight the difficult circumstances facing many South African households and, during times such as these, every rand matters,” Dukwana said.
She added that food, accommodation, transport, education and debt repayments should come before gambling. Consumers who choose to bet should only use disposable funds and avoid spending money needed to support their families.
Gambling Risks Increase Among Younger South Africans
Financial concerns are particularly significant among younger South Africans. StatsSA’s Q2 2026 survey found that 36.4% of people aged 15 to 24 were neither employed nor participating in education or training.
Against this backdrop, the NGB highlighted findings from its 2023/24 Socio-Economic Impact of Gambling in South Africa study. The research found that gambling participation was highest among South Africans aged 25 to 34.
The study also showed that gambling can play a role in household finances for some participants. In fact, 54% of gamblers said they use betting winnings to purchase basic household necessities. In addition, 43% said they use gambling profits to pay debts or bills.
Consequently, the NGB warned consumers, particularly younger people facing economic exclusion, against treating gambling as an alternative source of income.
“We recognise the heavy burdens facing young people across the country. Our message is not one of judgment, but of protection,” Dukwana said.
She stressed that gambling remains an uncertain activity with no guaranteed financial return. Therefore, it should not replace efforts to pursue sustainable employment, education or other legitimate economic opportunities.
NGB Urges Bettors to Use Licensed Operators
Alongside its warning about financial risks, the NGB reminded consumers to use licensed gambling operators.
The regulator highlighted its Verified Gambling Operators Web Portal. This portal allows consumers to check whether a gambling operator holds a valid licence before placing bets.
The portal brings information on land-based and certain online gambling licences together in one location. This helps consumers distinguish licensed operators from potentially unregulated services.
As South Africa continues to face elevated unemployment and economic pressure, the NGB’s latest warning reinforces its broader focus on responsible gambling and consumer protection. For bettors, the regulator’s message remains clear: gambling should be treated as entertainment and funded only with money they can afford to lose.
