SA Gambling Operators Under Fire for Withholding Responsible Gambling

South Africa’s gambling industry is facing criticism after it was revealed that operators have withheld approximately R29 million in contributions to the SA Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) over a four-year period. The foundation, which provides free treatment and counselling services for problem gamblers, is funded through a mandatory 0.1% contribution from licensed operators. However, in the 2025 financial year, only R41.3 million was collected, short of the expected R49.3 million.

This ongoing underpayment trend has persisted since 2021 and has impacted the foundation’s ability to deliver critical services. Adding to the strain, some provincial licensing boards have reportedly failed to make timely payments, further reducing the foundation’s revenue stream.

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Gambling Helpline Misused Amid Funding Crisis

The funding shortfall has forced the foundation to cut back on services while facing increasing demand. Notably, the gambling helpline has seen a sharp rise in calls—many unrelated to gambling addiction. According to Witness Saurombe, corporate services manager at SARGF, more than 63% of the calls are now from customers struggling with betting-related account issues, such as withdrawals and document uploads.

Saurombe expressed concern that the helpline is turning into a customer service desk for betting platforms:

“We are becoming a call centre for betting companies instead of a call centre for problem gamblers.”

With therapy costs rising from R3.7 million to R9.6 million over the past four years, the foundation’s limited budget has resulted in therapy sessions being capped at eight per person.

Calls for Increased Contributions and Awareness

A major point of discussion at the recent National Responsible Gambling Summit was the consideration to raise the contribution rate from 0.1% to 1%. With South Africa’s gambling industry expected to be worth R1.5 trillion by 2025, stakeholders argue that current contributions do not reflect the industry's scale or societal impact.

Saurombe emphasised the foundation's broader mission:

“Our programmes are limited by the funding. Eight sessions, not because we think it’s enough, that’s because it’s what we can afford.”

The foundation has stated that a larger portion of its future funding would go towards public awareness campaigns, aiming to equip South Africans with the knowledge to gamble responsibly and make informed decisions.