What is the role of the National Gambling Board?

Short Answer: The National Gambling Board (NGB) is the supreme oversight body. Think of them as the 'Manager of the Managers.' They do not issue licenses themselves; instead, they ensure that the nine Provincial Licensing Boards (like Gauteng or KZN) are all following the same national standards.

1. Maintaining Standards

The NGB ensures that a casino in Durban follows the same fairness rules as a casino in Cape Town. They set the norms for auditing, machine calibration, and responsible gambling signage.

2. The Central Registers

They maintain the national databases. This includes the NREP (Excluded Persons) list and the Probity Register (a list of banned employees or dishonest operators). This ensures that if a manager is fired for theft in Joburg, he cannot get hired in PE.

3. Illegal Gambling Enforcement

The NGB investigates and flags illegal operators. They work with the police to raid illegal gambling dens and petition ISPs to block illegal websites. They are the 'Enforcement Arm' of the industry.

4. Advisory Role

They advise the Minister of Trade and Industry on policy. If South Africa decides to fully legalize all online casinos in the future, the NGB will be the body drafting those regulations.