Applications to Increase Gaming Machines in Gauteng Face Public Scrutiny

Gauteng's gambling landscape might be facing some changes as two local businesses seek amendments to their current gaming licenses, inviting public scrutiny and comment. In a notice published in the Gauteng Provincial Gazette, applications pertaining to the increase of gaming machines at Tomato Pub and a new gaming machine license for Rasputin have been made public.

Andry Louw Brokers CC, trading as Tomato Pub, located at 685 Johan Heyns Drive, Mayville Pretoria, has proposed expanding their gaming machine offering from 2 to 5. Meanwhile, Ockert Daniel Oosthuyzen, trading as Rasputin (Raras) at Erf 1164, Shop 2 & 3 Coqui’s Boulevard, 642 Meyer Street, Wonderboom South, intends to secure a new gaming machine license.

These applications are in accordance with the Gauteng Gambling Act No. 4 of 1995, which governs the regulation and control of gambling activities within the province. Any expansion or new license requires that the public be given the opportunity to inspect the applications and submit written representations. In this case, the inspection at the Gauteng Gambling Board's offices will commence on 05 September 2024.

Stakeholders and members of the community are encouraged to participate actively in the process. Written representations must include detailed reasoning, personal contact information, and an indication of whether the individual wishes to remain anonymous or to present oral arguments during the hearing.

The public's input is not only a procedural step but also a critical avenue for voicing support or concerns related to the potential social impact, economic benefits, and regulatory obligations associated with the proliferation of gaming establishments. The Gauteng Gambling Board will be assessing these matters closely to ensure responsible expansion that aligns with the province’s strategic objectives for its gambling industry.

This openness to public comment exemplifies the province's intent to foster a gambling environment that is fair, has integrity, and protects community interests. Gauteng residents now have until one month from the commencement of the inspection period to express their viewpoints and potentially influence the outcome of these applications.

Taking into account the sensitive nature of the gambling industry, the decisions made will likely reflect a balance between entrepreneurial freedom and social responsibility. The final determination will consider the economic contribution against the potential risks such as gambling addiction and its societal costs.

As this process unfolds, the Gauteng Gambling Board has positioned itself as the pivotal authority in moderating this debate, underscoring its mandate to oversee a controlled gambling landscape that benefits all stakeholders.