Millions gamble, few speak out: Lonehill resident shares her struggle and recovery
Millions of South Africans gamble every year, but few share their struggles. Nonhlanhla Robert opens up about her addiction and how she plans to take back control.
South Africa’s gambling industry continues to grow at an astonishing rate, and so too do the personal stories of those trying to break free from its grip.
According to the latest data from the National Gambling Board, the total turnover or the total value of all bets placed in the 2024/25 financial year reached an eye-watering R1.5t.
While that number reflects the full scale of betting activity across the country, it’s important to understand what it really means. Only R75b of that amount represents Gross Gambling Revenue, the actual income that gambling companies keep after paying out winnings.
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The difference, a staggering R1.425t, is money that gamblers won and either rebet or kept. This highlights a worrying pattern: millions of South Africans continue to gamble in the hope of improving their financial situations, often ending up trapped in cycles of loss, debt, and desperation.
One of those who knows this struggle all too well is 34-year-old Lonehill resident Nonhlanhla Robert, who is bravely sharing her story in hopes of inspiring others to seek help.
“The first time I gambled, I had only R20 and I walked away with R8 000. I didn’t know then that it was the start of an addiction problem that would take over my life.”
What began as a thrill that she was introduced to by a friend quickly spiralled into obsession. Robert spent years chasing wins at Montecasino, Gold Reef City, and later through online betting apps.
Her biggest win, R50 000, gave her a false sense of control.
“I used about R26 000 to pay my daughter’s school fees and buy her things,” she recalled. “But the rest went straight back into gambling. I always believed I could win more.”
After years of losses, shame, and emotional strain, Robert decided to speak out publicly in a Fourways community group, a move she describes as both terrifying and freeing.
“I posted about my addiction because I thought if people know, I’ll be too embarrassed to go back. The response shocked me, so many people reached out saying they’re struggling too.”
Her honesty has made her one of the few to speak openly about gambling addiction, an issue many keep hidden.
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“It’s not easy. But being honest with myself is the first step. I want to take back control of my life.”
According to The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation website, which provides free support, admitting there’s a problem is often the hardest and most important step.
You might be struggling with gambling if:
- You gamble more money or more often than you planned.
- You borrow money to gamble or to pay debts caused by gambling.
- You lie to family or friends about how much you’ve lost.
- You gamble to escape stress, sadness, or financial pressure.
Where to get help
If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact:
- National Responsible Gambling Programme: 0800 006 008 or email helpline@responsiblegambling.org.za.
- Gamblers Anonymous South Africa: www.gamblersanonymous.org.za
- Sadag (South African Depression and Anxiety Group): 0800 21 22 23
- The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation: 0800 006 008, or WhatsApp/SMS HELP to 076 675 0710 or email helpline@responsiblegambling.org.za
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