Botswana Gambling Authority addresses industry challenges with new report
The 2002 Gambling Policy has become outdated in modern times.
Botswana.- The Botswana Gambling Authority has published the Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) report for the Gaming and Gambling Policy (2002).
The RIA report focused on reviewing and amending the existing framework that guides the regulation of the gambling sector in Botswana.
When enacted in 2002, the gambling policy’s objectives were to diversify and grow the gambling market and address the potential negative socio-economic consequences associated with gambling.
However, the policy has become outdated in modern times, as it fails to effectively address current challenges in the gambling sector.
According to the Authority, since the implementation of the policy, there has been a decline in licensed operators and limited investor interest in the market despite new licensing opportunities. These challenges underscore the necessity for a regulatory impact assessment report.
The RIA report was open to the public for review and feedback. The public consultation period lasted 30 days, from February 26 to March 28, 2025. During this period, the Authority entertained input from stakeholders, including players, licensees and other affiliated organisations.
The ultimate goal of the Gambling Authority is to develop a policy that aligns with the current and future gambling industry landscape, foster industry growth, and promote responsible gaming.
It also aims to align the Botswana gambling industry with international standards, addressing key concerns like money laundering and digital gaming oversight.
