Wednesday, 23 September 2026

Professor Somato Tana Fikeni’s Matlanga Commission testimony was said to expose a “political economy of inefficiency”, where red tape and weak implementation can benefit officials siphoning money from the public purse.

The presenter argued that South Africa’s bloated cabinet undermines coordination and planning, saying the state needs to be reimagined and modernised rather than merely adding ministries or spending.

South Africans wagered about R1.5 trillion in 2024-25, up 31.3% year on year, while gambling revenue reached R74.5 billion; betting generated 69.8% of that revenue.

A harm-reduction analyst said gambling addiction is affecting children as young as seven, with some callers reporting suicidal thoughts, and urged self-checks, limits and early support.

The Responsible Gambling Foundation’s counselling and treatment referrals rose roughly 56% in one year, from 2,662 to 4,166; help is available on 08006 0008, including self-exclusion support.