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The rapid rise of online gambling in South Africa

We hear how the Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increase in young people gambling - and an increase in young people dealing with gambling addiction.

In the first of a two part series, we investigate the explosive growth of online gambling since the Covid-19 pandemic.

While betting company revenues have soared, many South African individuals and families are facing the consequences.

We hear from recovering gambling addicts and explore how economic hardship, weak regulation, and the prevalence of mobile betting platforms are fuelling a national crisis.

If you are affected by harmful gambling or are suffering distress or despair you could speak to a health professional, or an organisation that offers support. Details of help available for despair in some countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide (www.befrienders.org)

Produced and presented by Frey Lindsay

(Image: South African businessman looking at phone. Credit: Getty Images)

Available now

17 minutes

Last on

Mon 21 Jul 2025 07:32GMT

Broadcast

  • Mon 21 Jul 2025 07:32GMT

Podcast