KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu has committed himself to working with stakeholders in the Gaming and Betting industry in order to ensure that this sector becomes a catalyst for socio-economic development across the province.
He was speaking in his capacity as the MEC for Gaming and Betting after attending the meeting of the Parliament Portfolio Committee on Office of the Premier. Importantly I want to ensure that the revenue generated in the industry benefits all the people of this province.
As of September alone the provincial government has collected R206,934 million through casino tax and R36,290 million through horseracing tax. This shows that Gaming and Betting industry is now a mature and well established sector in KZN.
“We have the new KwaZulu-Natal Gaming and Betting Act which has ushered in a new era of prosperity. Over the next few months I will be meeting with industry stakeholders such KwaZulu-Natal Gaming and Betting Board, casinos, bookmakers, Totalisators, Route Operators and Gold Circle to discuss the development of the industry and issues around licensing.”
“There is also an urgent need to attend to the development needs of horse owners, horse trainers, horse breeders, jockeys, veterinarians, grooms, work riders and ordinary club members of racing clubs.”
“A strong gaming and betting industry will serve the interests of all of us as the people of KwaZulu-Natal. Casinos, horse racing and tourism share a very strong and common bond.”
“Hundreds of horseracing events take place all over the world attracting thousands of international and domestic tourists. Similarly, there are more than 4 000 casinos all over the world and this billion dollar industry is attracting tourists from around the globe.”
“KZN tourism figures are increasing because there are major attractions such as casinos some of which are located along the beach. Others are in Pietermaritzburg, Newcastle, Empangeni and South Coast.”
“It is important to note that casinos have created employment for local communities, especially young people in the fields such as travel and tourism, human resources management, marketing and public relations, accounting, dealing cards and security. Because casinos are most commonly structured in 4 or 5 star hotels, this has strengthened the hospitality industry in the province.”
In view of all these issues, government is committed to developing a gambling industry whose objectives are the promotion of tourism, employment, economic and social development. Linked to this are efforts aimed at promoting opportunities for historically disadvantaged persons to participate in the horse racing and betting industries as owners.
Enquiries:
Ndabezinhle Sibiya, Spokesperson for the Premier
Cell: 082 375 4742
