Mobile betting vouchers under fire as SA gambling hits R1.5 trillion
Communications Minister Solly Malatsi says he will consult ICASA on whether consumer protections are adequate when mobile networks are used to access gambling and betting products
South Africa's Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi has pledged to discuss potential measures with the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) regarding the use of mobile networks to access gambling vouchers. This comes as growing concerns are raised about the increase in gambling, particularly online betting, and its impact on vulnerable individuals and households.
The National Gambling Board revealed that the gambling turnover reached R1.5 trillion in the 2024/25 financial year. Responding to a parliamentary question, Malatsi clarified that the National Gambling Act of 2004, along with provincial gambling legislation, forms the regulatory framework for gambling and betting activities. He stated that utilizing a mobile network or platform for purchasing or accessing a gambling voucher does not automatically classify the gambling product as an electronic communications service under ICASA's regulation.
Nevertheless, Malatsi intends to engage ICASA on possible measures within its regulatory authority. This includes evaluating if current consumer protection measures under ICASA are sufficient or if additional interventions within its mandate are necessary. The minister emphasized that the safeguards for gambling and betting vouchers depend on the service's structure and whether it falls under ICASA's regulatory jurisdiction.
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