South Africa Appoints New National Gambling Board as Regulatory Scrutiny Grows

South Africa has appointed a new National Gambling Board as regulators face growing pressure to address illegal gambling, advertising standards and the rapid expansion of online betting.

The appointments were confirmed in a Cabinet statement published on 29 September following a Cabinet meeting held on 23 September.

Dr Makgathatso Charlotte Chana Pilane-Majake has been appointed chairperson of the National Gambling Board, while Kganki Matabane will serve as deputy chairperson.

Other board members include Chuma Fani, Zoleka Gloria Bula and Silochini Pillay. Representatives from the South African Police Service and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition have also been appointed.

New Board Takes Over at a Busy Time for Gambling Regulation

The new leadership arrives at a particularly active time for South Africa’s gambling sector.

The National Gambling Board oversees gambling regulation at national level and works alongside provincial licensing authorities. Its responsibilities include protecting the integrity of the industry and supporting responsible gambling.

South Africa’s gambling market has changed significantly in recent years as online betting has expanded.

The growth of mobile wagering has also created new concerns over player protection and the accessibility of gambling through smartphones.

Casino.com recently reported that the NGB had warned about the risks associated with increased mobile betting, particularly for vulnerable players.

Gambling Advertising Comes Under Greater Scrutiny

Advertising is likely to be another area of focus for the newly appointed board.

Just days before the Cabinet announcement, the NGB confirmed a formal partnership with the Advertising Regulatory Board.

The agreement, announced on 23 September, is designed to improve cooperation in monitoring gambling advertising across both traditional and digital media. It will also strengthen consumer protection as gambling promotions become increasingly visible online.

The NGB has also been working to strengthen enforcement against illegal gambling websites.

Earlier this year, the regulator sought proposals for technology capable of monitoring, tracking and potentially blocking illegal gambling sites operating in South Africa.

Online Betting Growth Keeps Pressure on Regulators

The appointment of the new board also comes as South Africa’s online betting market continues to expand.

Recent financial results from major operators show that digital betting is growing faster than several traditional gambling segments.

SunBet, for example, reported a 35.5% increase in income during the first half of 2026 and is seeking to close the gap on larger operators including Betway and Hollywoodbets.

At the same time, the legal position surrounding online gambling remains complicated.

Licensed bookmakers can legally offer online betting, while online casino gambling remains prohibited under national law. The distinction has attracted increasing attention as operators expand their digital product ranges.

With a new board now in place, the National Gambling Board will be expected to balance continued industry growth with tighter oversight, enforcement and consumer protection across one of Africa’s largest gambling markets.