Mpumalanga’s desperate gamble amid economic crisis

Sizwe Dlamini

IN the heart of Mpumalanga, where unemployment and economic hardship loom large, a troubling trend is emerging: gambling is no longer just a pastime but a lifeline for many South Africans who are struggling to survive. A recent survey uncovered the sad reality of how South Africans in the province were turning to betting in a desperate bid to make ends meet. With unemployment soaring and the cost of living skyrocketing, gambling has become a high-stakes gamble for survival. The survey, conducted during Bettabets’ second Smart Money Management Workshop in Crossroads earlier this month, revealed alarming statistics. A staggering 54% of respondents admitted to using their grant money to fund their gambling habits. For many, the hope of a big win is a tantalising escape from financial despair. However, this…

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Sunday Independent (Digital) - 1 Issue, 2025-03-23

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