NGB reaffirms commitment to responsible gambling amidst industry growth
The growth of online betting has come with its own set of concerns, including a 31 per cent problem gambling prevalence rate.
South Africa.- Acting CEO of the National Gambling Board of South Africa (NGB), Lungile Dukwana, has reiterated the organisation’s commitment to promoting fair and responsible practices and protecting society from gambling harm.
Noting the rapid expansion and impact of the online betting industry, Dukwana cited NGB data that revealed that the gambling sector generated more than R1.5trn (€75.4bn) in turnover and R75bn (€3.7bn) in gross gambling revenue (GGR) for the 2024/25 financial year, with online betting accounting for 60 per cent of the revenue. He also drew attention to the sector’s creation of 33,169 direct jobs and its contribution of 0.83 per cent to the nation’s GDP.
However, Dukwana admitted that the growth of online betting has come with its own set of concerns, including a 31 per cent problem gambling prevalence rate and the need for enhanced responsible gambling measures.
With illegal gambling on the rise and online betting growing, Dukwana reaffirmed the NGB’s pledge to strengthen regulations, collaborate with stakeholders and educate the public, with the goal of maintaining a fair, competitive and responsible gambling industry in South Africa.
He said: “While we consider the economic impact of gambling, our foremost responsibility is to protect society and ensure fair, responsible practices.”
Dukwana made these remarks during his address on the opening day of the Responsible Gambling Summit held on November 13. The event continues today with discussions focused on responsible gambling practices, addressing industry challenges and exploring innovative solutions to reduce harm.
