Sebastien Alexanderson, Head of National Debt Advisors
Gambling in South Africa has reached historic levels with South Africans wagering an astonishing R1.14 trillion last year alone, an amount so staggering it rivals the country’s entire education budget. Behind that number are millions of people borrowing money, maxing out credit cards, or selling possessions to keep betting.
Sebastien Alexanderson, Head of National Debt Advisors (NDA), warns that this unsustainable gambling surge is eroding household stability, with participation hitting a record 65%, double 2017 levels.
“Every single day, we speak to South Africans who are losing everything, not just their money, but their families, their homes, and their futures. Gambling has become a silent epidemic, leaving a trail of devastation across this country,” said Alexanderson.
With the advent of a plethora of online betting platforms (making up 61% of all gambling revenue), gambling has evolved from a weekend pastime to a daily ritual, seamlessly integrated into everyday life. With smartphones and high-speed internet, betting is now available 24/7, right at people’s fingertips.
Also, relentless marketing and social media have glamorised gambling, making it seem fun and harmless. Flashy ads, free bet offers, and influencer campaigns draw people in, turning casual play into a compulsive, costly habit. The combination of aggressive marketing and weak regulation means the industry keeps growing unchecked, leaving vulnerable communities to pay the price.
“We’re seeing gambling become embedded in the culture, particularly among younger generations, with 74% of South African youth reported having gambled in some form,” says Alexanderson. “The line between leisure and addiction is blurred, and the consequences are devastating.”
He explained that this often leads to an unintended and vicious cycle, where gambling and debt feed into each other. Many South Africans start gambling as a way to solve financial problems, believing a big win could wipe away debts or secure a better future.
“The reality is often the opposite,” said Alexanderson. “Losses drive people to borrow at high interest, fuelling more gambling. Gambling debt causes financial stress, family conflict, deprivation, and deep emotional suffering.”
Sebastien shares three steps to help households protect themselves from gambling debt:
- Know the Risks and Set Limits: Be aware of how gambling can spiral out of control. Set strict limits on time and money spent, and stick to them.
- Budget Before You Bet: Cover essentials like food, rent, and school fees first. If you gamble, treat it as non-essential and focus on saving instead.
- Get Help Early: If gambling is causing stress or debt, seek support quickly, from debt counsellors, mental health professionals, or trusted advisors, before the problem grows.
ENDS
