The North West province is grappling with a substantial economic setback, losing over R10 million annually to the illegal gambling industry. This alarming diversion of funds not only hampers the local economy but also denies the government significant tax revenues essential for creating jobs and fostering socio-economic development in the region. Recent findings from the Financial Intelligence Center have highlighted the urgency of addressing this pervasive issue.
In response, the North West Gambling Board has taken decisive action to combat illegal gambling operations. Recent raids in Vryburg and Lichtenburg have led to the confiscation of numerous illegal gaming machines. “Last week we went to Vryburg and Lichtenburg and confiscated a lot of illegal machines because these illegal machines are just choosing the place and going everywhere,” said Boitumelo Gcalinge, acting CEO of the North West Gambling Board. “It is a concern for us as the province because we are losing a lot of focus on that. In October, we seized 267 illegal machines.”
Amid these challenges, the North West Gambling Board is taking proactive steps to improve the region’s legal gambling landscape. Recently, they granted Sunbet a license to operate as a bookmaker in the province, specifically at Sun City in Rustenburg. This venture is expected to invigorate the local economy by generating new job opportunities and lending support to local businesses desperate for growth.
On a national scale, South Africa’s gambling industry is experiencing remarkable growth, with citizens placing a staggering R418 billion worth of bets during the 2023/24 period—a notable 80% increase from R233 billion in the previous cycle. Yet, despite this upswing, the illegal gambling dilemma looms large over the North West, necessitating urgent and innovative solutions.
North West Economic Development Department MEC, Bitsa Lenkopane, expressed optimism regarding the new licensing agreements, underscoring the importance of mobilising investments. “The North West government relies on entities like the Gambling Board to mobilise investments, especially in the form of licenses, which will help change the status of our provincial economy. We must allow online operations to move forward,” she asserted.
In light of the ongoing battle against illegal gambling, the North West Gambling Board has encouraged residents to play an active role in combating the issue by reporting illegal activities within their communities. This grassroots effort is essential to bolster the growth of the legal gambling sector, ultimately steering the province towards a brighter and more economically stable future.