Botswana Gambling Authority CEO says illegal gambling costs economy €54m a year
Kemorwale said many unlicensed operators continue to attract underage users and increase the risk of gambling-related harm among children and young people.
Botswana.- Botswana’s Gambling Authority has called for a coordinated national response to illegal gambling, warning that unlicensed betting platforms are costing the country’s economy an estimated P850m (€54.6m) annually while exposing young people to gambling-related harm.
The appeal was made by Gambling Authority chief executive Moruntshi Kemorwale during the South East Region Staff Excellence Awards 2026 in Gaborone, where he addressed educators and other stakeholders under the theme, “Royal Excellence: Crowned Amongst the Economic Crunch.”
Kemorwale said tackling illegal and irresponsible gambling requires collective action from government, communities, educators and licensed operators. He highlighted the Authority’s mandate to regulate the gambling sector and promote responsible gambling through its Motshameko O Phepa campaign.
He warned that illegal betting operators continue to operate outside Botswana’s regulatory framework, with an estimated P850m spent on their platforms each year.
Kemorwale also raised concerns about the accessibility of illegal gambling sites to minors, saying many unlicensed operators continue to attract underage users and increase the risk of gambling-related harm among children and young people.
He said: “Responsible gambling is everyone’s responsibility. We must protect our young people, support licensed operators and stop illegal gambling from draining our economy. Together, we can build a safer and more responsible gambling environment for Botswana.”
The Gambling Authority said it will continue to strengthen public awareness initiatives, consumer protection measures and enforcement activities as part of its efforts to ensure gambling in Botswana is conducted legally, fairly and responsibly.
