South African citizens petition for stricter gambling advertising hours to curb addiction
A growing movement is urging the South African government to regulate gambling advertising hours to protect vulnerable youth.
South Africa – A new petition in South Africa is calling on the government to impose and enforce tighter regulations on gambling and betting advertisements. Headed by Makashule Gana, the petition cites rising gambling addiction rates and mounting mental health consequences, especially among young people, as the reason for the call.
The proposal reads: “Restrict gambling advertising to the hours between 10am and 6pm, and again from 10pm to midnight.”
These windows, campaigners argue, strike a necessary balance, limiting exposure during peak vulnerable hours while still allowing the industry to operate responsibly.
“Gambling-related harm is a pressing issue in South Africa,” the petition reads.
“From television to radio, online platforms to SMS notifications, the allure of easy access…can be overwhelming, particularly to young adults and those battling with addiction.”
The petition is already gaining momentum but so far, there has been no response from the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition – to whom the petition has been addressed.
Following Kenya’s footsteps
This comes just days after neighbouring Kenya announced it would ban gambling adverts across the country for 30 days. Kenya’s Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) ban, as of April 29, 2025, includes any kind of adverts related to betting, gaming, and lottery competitions.
In a statement issued on Monday, Jane Mwikali Makau, Chairperson of the BCLB, said the decision was made after rising fears about the social and economic impact of gambling.
“Some promoters are falsely marketing gambling as a shortcut to wealth,” she said.
