More than 100 organisations in South Africa unite to call for ban on online gambling platforms

A coalition of over one hundred groups has formally demanded that the South African government prohibit online betting services, signalling mounting regulatory pressure on the local gambling industry.

A coalition of 107 non-governmental organisations, community groups and faith-based bodies in South Africa has submitted a formal declaration to the national authorities, calling for a comprehensive ban on online gambling platforms. The coalition argues that the expansion of online betting is contributing to social harm, rising debt levels and regulatory fragmentation.
The declaration, which was publicly released this week, urges the government to establish a unified legal framework, increase tax and licence-fee burdens on operators, and immediately suspend unlicensed online offerings. The signatories emphasise that online betting continues to grow faster than regulatory oversight in the country.

For operators and service providers the move raises serious implications: a ban would require swift adjustments to the market structure, exit strategies or pivots to alternative jurisdictions. Meanwhile, regulators may face stronger public and political pressure to act.

Industry analysts say the coalition’s initiative reflects broader trends across Africa, where civil society voices are becoming increasingly influential in shaping public policy around gambling regulation and taxation. The coming months are expected to bring further consultation and possible legislative proposals in South Africa.