South Africa Explores Legalized Online Gambling

The voice of reason emanates from South Africa.  Who would have thunk it? 

The country, where online gambling is currently illegal, is now looking into legalization and regulation.  Why?  Two main reasons: a) to get a piece of pie, and b) to assist and protect problem gamblers. 

That last reason may come as a surprise to some, especially those legislators in the United States who think the best way to solve a problem is to force it underground.  The National Responsible Gambling Programme (NGRP) reported last week that problems stemming from online gambling were starting to appear in South Africa.  But, instead of shunning those who need to control their gambling and pushing them into the arms of potentially unsavory internet gaming companies, South African officials want to add measures to assist problem gamblers into a bill to regulate the industry. 

Fungayi Sibanda, chief director of trade and industry department policy and legislation, said that his department will submit a bill to Parliament in July.  If all goes well, internet gambling could be legalized and regulated in South Africa by the end of the year.

Originally published 1:36 PM Monday, April 23, 2007