Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi says he will engage the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) on possible measures to address the use of mobile networks to access gambling and betting vouchers.

The move comes amid growing concern about online betting and its impact on vulnerable people and households. The National Gambling Board reported that gambling turnover reached R1.5 trillion in the 2024/25 financial year.

In a written parliamentary reply, Malatsi was responding to a question from Rise Mzansi MP Makashule Gana. Gana asked whether the minister planned to curb the sale of gambling and betting vouchers through mobile network providers, and what safeguards prevent minors from accessing them.

Malatsi said the National Gambling Act of 2004, together with provincial gambling laws, provides the regulatory framework for gambling and betting. He noted that using a mobile network or platform to buy or access a gambling voucher does not automatically make the product an electronic communications service regulated by ICASA.

However, Malatsi said he would consult the regulator about measures that may be appropriate within its mandate, including whether existing consumer protections are adequate.

“I will therefore engage ICASA on what measures can appropriately be taken within its regulatory mandate where electronic communications networks and services are used to facilitate access to gambling and betting products,” Malatsi said.

He added that the discussions would consider “whether existing consumer-protection measures within ICASA’s regulatory framework are adequate and whether further interventions within its mandate may be warranted.”

Malatsi said the safeguards that apply to gambling and betting vouchers depend on how the service is structured and whether it falls within ICASA’s jurisdiction. He added that the legal age for participating in gambling remains governed by applicable gambling laws and regulations.