National Gambling Board (NGB) Urges South Africans to Safeguard Household Finances
The National Gambling Board (NGB) has issued a call for citizens to safeguard their household finances.
With economic pressures mounting across South Africa and the job market tightening, the temptation to view gambling as a financial lifeline is growing. However, the NGB warns that this “quick return” mindset can lead to even deeper financial distress.
Mr. Lungile Dukwana, the NGB’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, said: “We recognize the heavy burdens facing young people across the country.
“Our message is not one of judgment but of protection. Gambling is an uncertain activity, and there is no guarantee of winning. It should never replace the pursuit of sustainable employment, education, or other legitimate opportunities for economic participation,” Dukwana added.
Recent data from Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the second quarter of 2026 reveals a concerning trend. The official unemployment rate has risen to 33.6%, up from 32.7% in the previous quarter. This translates to approximately 8.5 million unemployed individuals, an increase of 345,000 people in just three months. During the same period, the number of employed South Africans decreased by 16,000, leaving just 16.7 million people in the workforce.
In this climate of severe economic strain, many are turning to gambling out of desperation. The NGB’s research into the socio-economic impact of gambling reveals a troubling relationship between financial pressure and betting habits. According to the findings, 54% of gamblers use their winnings to buy basic household necessities, while 43% use them to pay off debts or bills.
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The youth are bearing the brunt of the current economic crisis, with 36.4% of South Africans aged 15 to 24 not in employment, education, or training (NEET). This vulnerability is reflected in gambling statistics, where the 25 to 34 age group shows the highest participation rate at 77%. Furthermore, this demographic accounts for 55% of identified problem gamblers.
“The latest figures highlight the difficult circumstances facing many South African households. During times such as these, every rand matters. 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 are met, and only gamble what you can afford to lose. Protect the money you need to sustain your family,” Dukwana emphasized.
For those who choose to participate in gambling as a regulated form of entertainment, the NGB recommends that they prioritize essentials by only gambling with money that remains after all essential commitments are met. It is also important to understand that gambling always carries the risk of loss, and chasing losses can worsen financial distress. Additionally, always verify the legitimacy of gambling operators by ensuring they are legally licensed in South Africa through the NGB’s Verified Gambling Operators Web Portal.
The NGB emphasizes that gambling should never be regarded as a source of income, a remedy for unemployment, or a solution to financial hardship.
If you or a family member are experiencing financial or emotional difficulties related to gambling, the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP) offers free, confidential counseling 24/7.
