NGB urges caution over gambling as unemployment rises to 33.6%
The regulator’s warning follows research showing that 54 per cent of gamblers surveyed used winnings for basic household needs, while 43 per cent used them to pay debts or bills.
South Africa.- The National Gambling Board (NGB) has urged South Africans to protect their household finances and avoid relying on gambling for income as rising unemployment adds pressure to household budgets.
The call follows Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the second quarter of 2026, which showed the official unemployment rate rising to 33.6 per cent from 32.7 per cent in the first quarter.
The number of unemployed people increased by 345,000 to about 8.5 million, while employment declined by 16,000 to approximately 16.7 million. Young people continue to face significant economic challenges, with 36.4 per cent of those aged 15 to 24 neither employed nor in education or training.
The NGB said the economic environment could make gambling appear to be a way of generating quick income. However, it stressed that gambling, even when conducted legally, is a form of entertainment and should not be used as a response to unemployment or financial difficulties.
The regulator also pointed to findings from its 2023/24 Socio-Economic Impact of Gambling in South Africa study. Gambling participation was highest among people aged 25 to 34, with 77 per cent of respondents in that age group reporting that they gambled. The same age group accounted for 55 per cent of identified problem gamblers.
The study also highlighted the link between gambling and household financial pressures. More than half, or 54 per cent, of gamblers surveyed said they used gambling winnings to buy basic household necessities, while 43 per cent said they used winnings to pay debts or bills. Some participants also reported gambling to compensate for lost income.
Lungile Dukwana, NGB acting chief executive officer, said households should prioritise essential expenses before considering gambling. He noted: “Food, accommodation, transport, education and debt repayments must come before gambling. 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.”
The NGB also warned young people against viewing sports betting or other forms of gambling as an alternative to employment or other sustainable sources of income.
Dukwana said the regulator’s message was intended to protect young people facing economic exclusion rather than judge them. He stated: “Gambling is an uncertain activity and there is no guarantee of winning”, adding that it should not replace education, employment or other legitimate economic opportunities.
The NGB further advised consumers who choose to gamble to use only legally licensed operators in South Africa. Consumers can check an operator’s licensing status through the NGB’s Verified Gambling Operators portal.
The regulator also encouraged people experiencing financial difficulties linked to gambling, as well as their family members, to seek support through the National Responsible Gambling Programme, which provides free and confidential counselling and treatment services around the clock.
The NGB said responsible gambling, public education and consumer protection remain central to its efforts to reduce the socio-economic harm associated with gambling and protect vulnerable consumers.
