Botswana Gambling Authority hosts men’s mental health awareness session
The regulator brought in two advocates to speak to staff about depression, stigma and where men can turn for support.
Botswana.- The Botswana Gambling Authority (BGA) has continued its workplace wellness programme by hosting a men’s mental health awareness session to encourage staff to discuss mental health openly and seek support when they need it.
The session, held on Friday, July 10, focused on the importance of men’s mental health and framed asking for help as a sign of strength rather than weakness. Staff also discussed how to build a more supportive workplace.
Desmond Lunga, director of Men and Boys for Gender Equality, led the session and spoke about the need to support men both at work and at home, saying greater awareness and stronger connections help create environments where men can thrive. He encouraged people to check on their own wellbeing regularly and to talk to someone if they are struggling.
The session also featured advocate Osi Lashane, who shared his experience of living with severe depression and encouraged others facing mental health challenges to break their silence and seek professional or community support. He said sharing lived experiences helps reduce stigma and reassures people they are not alone. Lashane said Men and Boys for Gender Equality is preparing to launch a mobile app to connect people with mental health support and offer a safe space to seek help.
The Gambling Authority thanked staff and speakers, saying the session underscored the value of education, open dialogue and ongoing support for men’s mental health. The event is the latest in the regulator’s staff-wellbeing work as its remit and revenue have grown.
