HomeNews

South African Politicians Alarmed by iGaming Surge: 90% of Population Has Bet

avatar

Tania Levees

20 May 2025

Comment 0

Makashule Gana

Pictured: Makashule Gana, leader of the Rise Mzansi party

South African politicians are raising urgent concerns about the rapid growth of online gambling, as reported by iGaming Africa. The Rise Mzansi party and the Democratic Alliance (DA) have both called on the government to respond swiftly to what they see as a mounting public health problem.

A recent survey by GeoPoll, titled “Betting in Africa 2025“, revealed that 90% of South Africans have participated in some form of gambling. Experts warn that betting is particularly widespread among low-income individuals.

“It is a huge concern to us that many people, especially poor people relying on social grants, are gambling at the rate they are. Many people gamble money they should be using to buy essentials,” said Rise Mzansi’s Makashule Gana.

In light of these findings, Gana is urging restrictions on gambling advertising and mandatory contributions from operators toward addiction treatment services. “The gambling companies must pay for the damage they are causing,” he added.

Compounding the problem is the outdated National Gambling Act, which has technically outlawed online casinos since its passage in 2004. Despite this, unlicensed offshore operators continue to target South African bettors without much resistance.

Democratic Alliance MP Toby Chance confirmed that lawmakers are working on a new Remote Gambling Bill aimed at tightening regulation. The draft legislation proposes a ban on underage gambling, prohibits lending to players, and sets limits on marketing practices. Violations would be met with financial penalties.

According to estimates from Astute Analytica, the African gambling market could reach a value of $11.27 billion by 2032.

Author avatar

Tania Levees

| Journalist

From poker player to professional author on the subject.

All articles by this author.

Leave a comment