Individuals gamble with their money and other valuables when they see an opportunity to win in games. The person who correctly predicts the outcome of the game wins, while the wrong bettors lose. Gambling was illegal in South Africa before 1996, the exception being betting on horses. A study by the Wiehahn Commission in 1995 recommended that the government regulate gambling to protect society from overstimulation, raise revenue through taxes, create employment, and empower the historically disadvantaged. The National Gambling Act, of 1996, was passed incorporating recommendations from the commission. In 2004, a revision to the Act allowed for the creation of a National Gambling Policy Council would guarantee that policies are harmonized at both national levels and government at the provincial level.
The 2008 National Gambling Amendment Act was enacted to govern. Interactive gambling, while still pending official approval for execution. In the year 2010, the GRC issued its report recommending policy changes.
Examine gambling outcomes in the country from a holistic perspective. Decide whether additional gambling options could be implemented. In the year 2010, the GRC issued its report recommending policy changes.
Policy guidelines to regulate gambling in South Africa as recommended by the Wiehahn Commission
Safeguard the public from excessive exposure to hidden gambling activities by
- restriction of possibilities.
- ensuring the safety of athletes and maintaining the honesty and equality of the sector through rigorous measures.
- regulating and overseeing
- Promoting economic independence for those who have been traditionally marginalized.
- encouraging economic expansion, advancement, and job creation
- Creating income and funds for local governments and beneficial purposes
Regulation of gambling in South Africa
- The Department of Trade and Industry
The national gambling policy ensures that all jurisdictions follow uniform guidelines and standards. The Board in charge of regulating licensing agencies ensures that they do so. The minister then coordinates with relevant agencies to address any issues related to the regulation of gambling.
- The National Gambling Board (NGB)
In 2004, the NGB was established to promote the growth of South Africa’s gambling industry. Its objective is to ensure that the activities of the gambling industry are conducted properly.
As an adviser to the minister of industry, the NGB helps in ensuring that the licensing bodies follow the country’s regulations and standards.
Besides studies on the gambling sector, the NGB is also responsible for reviewing the economic and societal effects of the activity.
- Nine Provincial Licensing Authorities (PLAs)
Each PLA has jurisdiction within its province. They investigate, consider, and issue Licenses in respect of casinos, racing, gambling, and wagering. Besides, the PLAs conduct inspections. It ensures that operators follow the National Gambling Act, of 2004, and their provincial legislation. They impose penalties that apply to the Act and the provincial laws and issue offense notices. PLAs are responsible for ensuring that establishments follow the regulations of FICA . They also enforce penalties according to the Act and provincial laws.
Exclusions from participating in gambling activities
- In 2004, clause 14 of the National Gaming Act made it legal for people to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling. A court can also order another person to be excluded from it. The NGB has to maintain a register for individuals who have been excluded from the game.
- Individuals who are on the register will not be allowed to gamble in the nation’s legal games. They can request to be reinstated to the activity through a written form that shows proof of rehabilitation.
National Responsible Gambling Program
Responsible gambling was promoted in South Africa through the establishment of the NRGP in 2000. It is a collaboration between the country’s regulators and the gambling industry. The operators contribute to the program through a small part of the gaming revenue. The NRGP employs qualified counselors to help problem gamblers. It can be done via a toll-free line or in-patient treatment. Also, the NRGP offers a National school education program. Furthermore, a research program handles the National Prevalence Study, among other research.
Illegal gambling activities in South Africa
The following are the popular forms of illegal gambling in South Africa:
- greyhound racing (dog racing)
- online gambling, including online casinos that people can find on the https://blog.vave.com/crypto-blockchain/ website
- fafi (ichina)
- dice
- poker, including online poker
- sports betting/stake (cricket, soccer, etc.)
- betting on lottery results via bookmakers
Any person can participate in or offer these illegal forms of gambling. They can be prosecuted and may be liable for a fine of R10 million or a minimum term of 10 years in prison.
The Act makes provision for the appointment of inspectors to ensure compliance. Fines or compliance notices can be imposed on offending operators. The inspectorate will be enhanced at national and provincial levels to ensure evidence is effectively gathered. The NGB works with all affected stakeholders. It ensures that there is no facilitation of illegal gambling, either in terms of financial transactions or online sites.
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