Don't let SA fall! RISE Mzansi’s call to combat gambling woes

THE 2026 National Budget has reignited a fierce policy battle over the future of gambling regulation in South Africa, with the National Treasury's proposal for a 20% national online gambling tax drawing both praise and criticism.

- MASABATA MKWANANZI

MAKASHULE Gana, RISE Mzansi's National Assembly whip and member of the portfolio committee on police.

(TIMOTHY BERNARD)

RISE Mansi said the tax is overdue but warns it must be complemented by tougher rules, equitable revenue sharing, and aggressive action against illegal operators or risk becoming yet another missed opportunity to curb the country’s gambling crisis.

This follows the National Treasury's publication of a draft national online gambling tax discussion paper in November 2025, with the public comment period having closed on February 27, signalling the government's consideration of a new national levy on online betting.

RISE Maansi National Assembly Whip Makashule Gana said South Africa is currently facing a gambling crisis. While the proposed national online gambling tax is a crucial first step, he stressed that it must be accompanied by structural reforms to protect vulnerable communities and strengthen provincial oversight.