The National Gambling Board (NGB) of South Africa has launched a new online verification portal listing all licensed gambling operators in the country. The portal aims to curb illegal gambling activities by directing consumers to authorized operators. Developed with provincial licensing authorities, it provides a searchable database of legal land-based and online gambling operators and is accessible to the public, law enforcement, tax authorities, and financial institutions.
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NGB’s Strategy Against Illegal Gambling
The NGB’s Acting CEO, Lungile Dukwana, emphasized the platform’s role in safeguarding South Africans from illegal gambling risks. “This platform is a critical step in safeguarding South Africans from the dangers posed by illegal gambling,” Dukwana stated. The portal not only offers a resource for verifying licensed operators but also promotes a safe, regulated gambling environment. The tool is designed to enhance oversight and accountability in the gambling sector.
Market Dynamics and Regulatory Challenges
South Africa is Africa’s largest regulated gambling market, with both provincial and national oversight. In the 2024/2025 financial year, wagering amounted to approximately 1.5 trillion South African Rand ($89 billion), a 31.3% increase from the previous year. Despite this growth, regulatory challenges persist, especially with cross-border online gambling. A recent Gauteng High Court ruling reaffirmed the illegality of online casinos, highlighting gaps in enforcement and legislation.
The NGB is considering a 20% tax on gross gaming revenue, a move that has drawn criticism. The Free Market Foundation warns this could drive users to offshore casinos not bound by South African regulations or taxes.
Crackdown on Unlicensed Operations
Illegal and offshore gambling continues to be a major issue, with the South African Bookmakers Association reporting that 62% of online gambling in the country comes from unlicensed operators. The NGB’s portal seeks to improve consumer awareness and encourage verification of operators before betting. Dukwana emphasized informed and responsible participation, while the NGB plans to collaborate with financial institutions to block unlicensed operators’ transactions.
The board plans further actions to enhance consumer protection and ensure compliance with responsible gambling and anti-money laundering protocols. The NGB intends to work with banks and payment providers to prevent unauthorized operators from using South African financial systems.
The NGB will be monitoring the portal’s impact on the market and evaluating its effectiveness in reducing illegal gambling activities. Further regulatory developments are expected as South Africa continues to adjust its legal framework to address digital and cross-border gambling challenges.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
