The Eastern Cape Gambling Board (ECGB) today announced it has received its eleventh consecutive clean audit opinion from the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA). This milestone underscores the Board’s unwavering commitment to the highest standards of financial integrity, transparency and accountability in its oversight of the provincial gambling industry.
ECGB Deputy Chairperson, Vuyelwa Vika, stated that this achievement reflects the organisation's maturity and diligence. “Operating within a dynamic and evolving industry requires the ECGB to consistently uphold the highest levels of fiscal responsibility and operational excellence. This eleventh clean audit is a testament to our success in that mission,” said Vika.
ECGB Chief Executive Officer, Reuben Mabutho Zwane, attributed the result to a deeply ingrained culture of good governance. “This is a collective achievement, born from a shared commitment to excellence by every ECGB employee. Their understanding of the profound responsibility we hold in managing public funds is exemplary and I am proud to lead such a dedicated team,” Zwane said.
He further noted that consistent clean audits are a clear indicator of effective financial management and strict adherence to regulatory requirements. “This rigorous governance is crucial to ensuring the gambling industry operates within a framework of fairness and compliance, which in turn protects the public and maintains the trust placed in us,” Zwane added.
Beyond its regulatory role, the ECGB highlighted the gambling industry's significant positive impact on the Eastern Cape. The industry has been a key contributor to economic growth, job creation, and the socio-economic revitalization of towns across the province.
Supporting 3,673 sustainable jobs, the industry's value chain provides critical local employment. Furthermore, operators collectively contributed R34.7 million to Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives in the past year.
Despite challenging economic conditions marked by high interest rates and inflation, the ECGB successfully collected R187 million in revenue for the year ending 31 March 2024, all of which was disbursed to the Provincial Treasury.
