South Africa- The National Gambling Board (NGB) has urged South Africans to protect their household finances. It also warned against relying on gambling for income. This comes as rising unemployment adds more pressure to household budgets nationwide.
The call follows fresh data from Statistics South Africa. The Quarterly Labour Force Survey covered the second quarter of 2026. It showed the official unemployment rate climbing to 33.6%. This marks an increase from 32.7% in the first quarter.
Unemployment Figures Paint a Concerning Picture
The numbers reveal a difficult economic reality. The number of unemployed people rose by 345,000. This brings the total to approximately 8.5 million people. Meanwhile, employment declined by 16,000. Total employment now sits at around 16.7 million.
Young people continue to face particularly hard challenges. In fact, 36.4% of those aged 15 to 24 fall into a troubling category. They are neither employed nor in education or training.
Gambling Is Entertainment, Not Income, NGB Says
The NGB acknowledged why gambling might seem appealing right now. The tough economic environment can make gambling look like quick income. However, the regulator pushed back firmly against this idea. It stressed that gambling remains a form of entertainment. Even legal gambling should never serve as a response to unemployment or financial hardship.
The regulator also referenced its own research. Its 2023/24 Socio-Economic Impact of Gambling in South Africa study revealed key trends. Gambling participation peaked among people aged 25 to 34. Within this group, 77% of respondents reported gambling regularly. This same age group also made up 55% of identified problem gamblers.
Study Links Gambling to Financial Pressure
The study also revealed a troubling connection. It linked gambling directly to household financial pressures. More than half of gamblers surveyed, or 54%, admitted something notable. They used gambling winnings to buy basic household necessities. Meanwhile, 43% said they used winnings to pay debts or bills. Some participants even reported gambling to make up for lost income.
NGB Urges Households to Prioritise Essentials
Lungile Dukwana, NGB acting chief executive officer, addressed this issue directly. He said households should prioritise essential expenses first. Only after that should they consider gambling at all.
“Food, accommodation, transport, education and debt repayments must come before gambling,” Dukwana said. “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.”
Young People Warned Against Betting as Income Alternative
The NGB also directed a specific warning toward young people. It cautioned against viewing sports betting as an employment alternative. This warning extends to other forms of gambling as well. None should replace sustainable sources of income.
Dukwana explained the intent behind this message clearly. The regulator wants to protect young people facing economic exclusion. Importantly, this message aims to support rather than judge them. “Gambling is an uncertain activity and there is no guarantee of winning,” he said. He added that gambling should never replace education, employment, or other legitimate economic opportunities.
NGB Recommends Licensed Operators and Support Services
The NGB offered practical advice for those who choose to gamble anyway. It advised consumers to use only legally licensed operators in South Africa. Consumers can verify an operator’s licensing status easily. The NGB’s Verified Gambling Operators portal makes this check simple.
The regulator also highlighted support resources for those struggling. People experiencing financial difficulties linked to gambling can seek help. Family members affected by a loved one’s gambling can also reach out. The National Responsible Gambling Programme offers free, confidential support. Counselling and treatment services remain available around the clock.
Consumer Protection Remains a Core Priority
Ultimately, the NGB reaffirmed its broader mission. Responsible gambling, public education, and consumer protection remain central priorities. These efforts aim to reduce socio-economic harm linked to gambling. They also help protect vulnerable consumers across South Africa.
See also…
https://afriplayhub.com/2026/08/17/limpopo-gambling-board-boosts-csr-support/
