South Africa's National Gambling Board took its responsible-gambling message to a traditional horse-racing day in the Eastern Cape on 6 and 7 November. Staff from the Board, the provincial regulator and the SARGF spoke with people who may never visit a casino or a betting shop.
A racing day in Ntabankulu
The National Gambling Board (NGB), the Eastern Cape Gambling Board (ECGB) and the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) set up at the Ntabankulu Traditional Horse Racing and Fashion Show. It was held at Nozolisa Sports Ground in the Ntabankulu Local Municipality.
The NGB announced its presence on its own X account on 6 November. Its post said the three bodies were there to promote responsible gambling, teach communities about the risks of problem gambling and raise awareness of the support services that exist.
What the stalls offered
Photographs from the event show separate tents for the foundation and the provincial board. The foundation's tent displays its treatment and counselling line, 0800 006 008, in large letters, and people gather at the provincial board's stall to talk with staff.
The message is aimed at everyday gambling, not only at casinos. The NGB says online sports betting and instant payments have made gambling easier to reach, which can put pressure on household money and family life. Advice such as "know your limits" helps, the Board says, but people also need to learn the warning signs and know where to ask for help.
Why a horse-racing day
The Board's reasoning is that outreach in local communities helps people who may not visit a casino or contact a helpline still reach information and support. A public event brings that help to them, instead of waiting for them to ask.
It is a method other regulators use. Botswana's gambling authority took the same approach at the Ghanzi Derby, telling racegoers to bet only what they can afford to lose.
Also Read: Botswana Gambling Authority at the Ghanzi Derby: Bet Only What…
What it means
An outreach stall does not change a law, and the Board did not release figures on how many people it spoke to. Its value is that it brings the regulator, the provincial board and a support charity to the same place, in a community far from the big cities. The NGB now has its first full board since 2014, which gives its public work more weight.
Also Read: What South Africa's New Gambling Board Means for Operators
Frequently asked questions
Where was the event held?
At Nozolisa Sports Ground in the Ntabankulu Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, on 6 and 7 November.
Who took part?
The National Gambling Board, the Eastern Cape Gambling Board and the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation.
Where can I get help in South Africa?
The SARGF's counselling line shown at the event is 0800 006 008.
Information, not legal advice. 18+ only. Gamble responsibly.
