Key Moments:
- Botswana’s gaming industry has been projected to exceed P1 billion (€78 million) in revenue during the next financial year.
- The Motshameko o Phepa (Responsible Play) campaign launched in Francistown and is expanding to over 500 sites by March next year.
- Olympic athlete Nijel Amos and social influencers have joined forces with the Gambling Authority to champion responsible gambling.
Strong Revenue Growth Puts Botswana’s Gambling Market in Focus
Botswana’s gaming industry aims to exceed P1 billion (€78 million) in revenue next financial year. This would quadruple the nation’s usual average of P250 million (€19.5 million) and reflects rising investor confidence alongside strong government oversight.
At the launch of the Motshameko o Phepa (Responsible Play) campaign, Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship Tiroeaone Ntsima discussed the industry’s mounting contributions to national development. Citing figures from the Ngami Times, Ntsima said:
“Globally gambling generates US$500bn yearly, while in Botswana an average of P250m (€19.5m) is generated annually. Projections indicate this could surpass P1bn (€78m) in the next financial year.”
While these financial prospects are promising, there is heightened attention on how gambling’s rapid expansion will impact communities, with the government emphasizing social responsibility alongside economic progress.
Responsible Gambling and Regulatory Safeguards Lead the Way
Minister Ntsima stressed that the Gambling Authority’s work extends beyond issuing licenses. He noted:
“Gambling Authority is not only to regulate but to protect families, safeguard youths and strengthen our communities. Gambling must never compromise the wellbeing of our people.”
This principle forms part of Botswana’s Vision 2036 plan, which places social welfare at the heart of economic development.
Motshameko o Phepa Campaign Accelerates Nationwide Efforts
Education initiatives have become a primary pillar of Botswana’s approach to responsible gambling. Since its launch in Francistown in September, the Motshameko o Phepa campaign has continued to expand. The Gambling Authority plans to reach more than 500 locations across the country by March next year. Organized by the Gambling Authority, the campaign seeks to enhance transparency and foster awareness among both gaming operators and communities.
The campaign also reflects Botswana’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Policymakers aim to align strong regulation with sustainable industry growth.
| Financial Metric | Current Value | Projected Value (Next Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Gambling Revenue | P250 million (€19.5 million) | P1 billion (€78 million) |
High-Profile Ambassadors Amplify Responsible Gaming Message
To broaden the campaign’s impact, the Gambling Authority has enlisted Olympic athlete Nijel Amos as its brand ambassador, alongside a network of social media influencers. Their involvement is designed to connect public policy with everyday citizens, portraying gambling as a regulated source of entertainment and economic opportunity while promoting a message of moderation.
This collaboration signals an industry shift towards structured growth and community-centric values. As Botswana’s gambling revenue targets climb, stakeholders are increasingly focused on how regulatory rigor and effective advocacy can ensure sustainable advancement.
Looking Ahead
With heightened awareness, strengthened oversight, and a clear emphasis on responsibility, Botswana could be positioned to establish a benchmark for balanced gambling sector growth across Africa.
- Author
Daniel Williams
