Online gambling addiction is a growing concern in South Africa. File picture: Andrea Piacquadio
THE SOUTH African gambling industry is expanding significantly, reflecting its role as an economic powerhouse that fuels job creation and contributes to national revenue. In 2023, the industry saw R815.1 billion wagered, with sports bets alone reaching R420 billion - a clear indication of its growth and potential benefits. However, when it comes to minors and gambling, a word of caution remains.
Recent findings from Infoquest, a leading online market research firm, reveal that online gambling is already on the rise among young South Africans. The ease of online access has made gambling more available to young people, who often lack both the maturity to handle its potential risks responsibly and the financial skills to manage their money effectively.
The study highlights that individuals aged 18 to 34 who engage in online gambling and sports betting do so an average of 11 times per month. Alarmingly, 39% of these young gamblers reinvest their winnings, and 30% gamble with excess funds, revealing a cycle that can sometimes lead to addiction and financial strain.
As Ana Bonanni, the CEO of Bettabets, explains, young people often mimic the gambling habits of older siblings. She notes, “Parents should be mindful that minors under the age of 18 may be drawn to gambling by the thrill of risk-taking or peer pressure, and this can lead to misunderstandings about money and risk. Gambling can be a pleasurable and entertaining activity that plays a constructive role in the local economy, but we should recognise that minors are not yet equipped to handle the stakes responsibly.”
High stakes and heartbreaks: The impact of underage gambling
Adolescents are particularly susceptible to the addictive nature of gambling, which can lead to compulsive behaviour extending into adulthood. Research shows that approximately 5% of South African adolescents may already exhibit signs of gambling addiction, such as:
Bonanni emphasises the urgent need for parental vigilance. “It is vital that parents and guardians arm themselves with information to safeguard young children from the dangers of underage gambling. Parents must be proactive in identifying the warning signs and educating their children about the risks associated with gambling to empower them to make responsible decisions.”
With the end-of-year holidays coming up and children having more unsupervised time, the risks can increase significantly. Below are Bonanni's five tips to help protect your children from underage gambling:
For immediate support, parents and guardians can contact the Gambling Helpline South Africa at 0800 006 008.