Gambling addiction has reached alarming levels in South Africa, with mounting debt and mental health challenges pushing some people to the brink of suicide.
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF), which promotes responsible gambling and supports those affected by gambling-related harm, has reported that some people gamble away their entire salaries on payday, leaving them penniless and struggling to repay debts.
More than 1300 people have sought help from the organisation after experiencing severe gambling-related distress, with some contemplating suicide because of the financial and emotional toll. These figures were reported in the October 25, 2026, edition of the Sunday Tribune.
My question to the government is…