How 'Bet I Love You' highlights the gambling crisis in South Africa

Gambling is a huge problem in South Africa, with alarming stats being revealed, calling for more awareness and education around the matter.

A movie called “Bet I Love You”, directed by Nigeria’s Joseph Duke, uses storytelling to shine a light on the growing crisis of gambling.

Khumbuza Meyiwa stars as Rex, with Nosipho Majola as Nthabi and Smangele Mhlongo as Aunt Lungi, the opportunistic wedding planner, and Gabisile Tshabalala as Wendy, Rex’s supportive yet frustrated girlfriend.

Rex is a compulsive gambler who lands himself in hot water when he loses the lobola money meant for his sister’s wedding.

Realising that his addiction is jeopardising both his family’s reputation and his relationship, he scrambles to make things right.

Viewers get to see how Rex’s gambling not only negatively affects his own life but also the lives of those around him.

While Rex does end up getting the help he needs and turns his life around, not everyone is lucky enough to, as some people find themselves in financial difficulties because of gambling.

According to Statistics South Africa, gambling accounts for 1.6% of total household spending, making it the 12th highest expense, just behind beer. 

 The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation previously revealed that 35% of people seeking help for gambling addiction are unemployed and depend on SASSA social grants.

According to the 2025 Old Mutual Savings and Investment Monitor (OMSIM), a report that tracks the shifting financial attitudes and behaviours of working South Africans, around 52% of employed adults participate in gambling.

“Bet I Love You”, premiered at the Joburg Film Festival earlier this year and is streaming on Showmax.

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