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RISE Mzansi positively notes the comments of Pick n Pay CEO, Mr Sean Summers, who has labelled the gambling crisis as “out of control” and “horrendous”, as reported by News24.

The recent annual report of the National Gambling Board raises the alarm, stating that gambling operators have increased their gross gambling revenue from R59-billion in 2023/4 to R75-billion in 2024/25, an annual growth of 26%. Moreover, South Africans spent R1,5-trillion during the 2024/25 financial year on gambling activities, this is an increase from the R1,1-trillion wasted in the previous financial year.

Gambling addiction, known as “problem gambling”, is fast being recognised as a public health crisis, where money is lost, but in the extreme, it claims lives through depression and suicide. Those in power, whether in business, academia, health, sports, and politics, can no longer ignore this crisis.

Look left, look right; look up, and look down, you see gambling advertising, which entices all of society – the youth and the elderly; urban and rural communities; the poor and the rich – while leaving a trail of deadly destruction.

RISE Mzansi calls upon more leaders to raise their voices and agitate for action.

RISE Mzansi has sponsored a National Assembly subject for discussion, which will take place this Friday. Time will tell where political parties and their leaders stand on the matter. 

Issued by RISE Mzansi National Assembly Whip Makashule Gana