Key Moments:
- The Namibian government has set a target of over N$100 million in gambling revenue by 2030 under the sixth National Development Plan (NDP6).
- Revenue from gambling increased from N$9.3 million in 2022/23 to N$32 million in the latest financial year, with more than 4,140 jobs supported in the sector.
- The first state lottery is in advanced preparation stages, projected to contribute significantly to national revenue and social development programs.
Government Strategy Drives Sector Growth
Namibia has outlined bold objectives for its gambling industry as part of the sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), aiming to surpass N$100 million (€5.1 million) in revenue by 2030. The roadmap positions gaming as an engine for economic diversification, job creation, and modernization of the country’s entertainment and tourism infrastructure.
Recent figures reveal that the industry already supports over 4,140 jobs and demonstrated notable growth in the latest financial period. Revenue jumped from N$9.3 million in 2022/23 to N$32 million most recently. Officials anticipate an annual growth rate of 8.1 per cent through 2030, as new reforms are rolled out.
Digital Transformation and Enhanced Oversight
A significant element of the NDP6 framework is a focus on digital transformation within the gaming sector. Namibian authorities are advancing the introduction of online management solutions and central monitoring systems to tighten regulatory control, enhance transparency, and ensure compliance.
These technological upgrades are expected to streamline gaming operations, limit revenue leakages, and reinforce the government’s ability to channel industry proceeds toward national development objectives.
State Lottery Set to Shape Long-Term Industry
Preparations for Namibia’s first state lottery are nearing completion, designed to play a leading role in the sector’s continued expansion. Official projections indicate the new lottery will be a major contributor to the targeted N$100 million revenue by 2030.
LBN, the Lotteries Board of Namibia, is finalizing key requirements for the launch—including the selection of a licensed lottery operator, fulfilling legal and procurement procedures, implementing digital oversight mechanisms, and establishing internal launch policies.
John Shimaneni, CEO of LBN, told The Brief that preparations have reached an advanced phase, with transactional advisory procurement ongoing to steer the appointment of the operator in compliance with the Lotteries Act.
Plans call for the lottery’s launch within 12 to 24 months. All proceeds are earmarked for the State Lottery Trust Fund, which will support youth initiatives, education, healthcare, and community projects.
Leadership and Future Industry Drivers
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, speaking to New Era, emphasized the sector’s potential to foster economic growth if cultivated responsibly, noting its alignment with tourism and investment strategies. Nandi-Ndaitwah also underscored the importance of mobile gaming and AR/VR technologies, highlighting expectations that these innovations will attract more visitors and help increase international arrivals from 863,872 to 1.8 million by 2030.
She said:
“Namibia is well positioned and geared to tap into the market for the economic and social development of the people.”
“The establishment of the State lottery alone is projected to generate over N$100 million in revenue by 2030 and to contribute significantly to the gross domestic product of the country.”
Sector Outlook and Path to 2030
Namibia’s approach under NDP6 marks a decisive move toward a structured, well-regulated, and transparent gambling industry. Through the combination of a state-run lottery, robust digital systems, and a tourism-focused agenda, the government aims to transform the sector into a dependable source of national revenue and sustainable development.
As these reforms advance, the coming years will test whether a modernized and accountable gambling industry can anchor Namibia’s economic ambitions while fostering public trust.
| Metric | 2022/23 | Most Recent Financial Year | 2030 Target |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sector Revenue (N$) | 9.3 million | 32 million | 100+ million |
| Jobs Supported | 4,140+ | Not specified | |
| International Arrivals | 863,872 | 1.8 million | |
- Author
Daniel Williams
