Central SA
Free State authority warns against irresponsible gambling and addiction─── ZENANDE MPAME 10:29 Fri, 21 Nov 2025
The Free State gambling authority have called upon all residents to gamble responsibly and to be cautious of the dangers of addiction during this Responsible Gambling Month.
As Responsible Gambling Month is observed in November, new data shows a rise in gambling, with thousands of South Africans, especially young adults, turning to betting as an escape from stress or in the hope of fast financial relief.
Gambling often begins as a recreational activity; it is frequently incorporated into the tourism industry and has a number of positive economic effects, including the creation of jobs and higher tax receipts.
Challenges arise when individuals turn to gambling as a means to escape financial hardship or loneliness, hoping to overcome their difficulties or break the monotony of everyday life. This can, unfortunately, lead to risky behaviour and potential addiction.
“Gambling should be a form of entertainment, not a source of distress or financial ruin,” said Free State Gambling, Liquor and Tourism Authority acting chief executive officer Obakeng Seseane. “We urge the people of the Free State to approach gambling with responsibility and restraint.”
As part of the campaign, the authority called on Free State residents to gamble responsibly, to be cautious of the dangers of addiction, and to report any illegal gambling activities to the relevant authorities.
It also encouraged communities to play an active role in protecting one another by reporting any gambling operations that exploit vulnerable people, he added.
The gambling authority cautioned the public about unregulated online gambling platforms that promise quick wins but often lead to “devastating losses, especially in today’s tough economic times”.
The national responsible gambling programme called on the broader public to become responsible gamblers this festive season, while psychiatrists caution that the negative effects go well beyond monetary loss. These included increased risk of suicide, depression, anxiety, substance addiction, and domestic violence.
“While two-thirds of South Africans engage in some form of gambling, about 4%, or roughly 2 million people, have developed problematic or compulsive habits that cause significant harm beyond financial loss,” said SA Society of Psychiatrists member and psychiatrist Dr James Burger.
