Botswana Gambling Authority launches responsible gambling first aid training
The training aligns directly with the provisions of the Gambling Act of 2012, which mandates regulatory bodies to promote responsible practices within the industry.
Botswana.- The Gambling Authority of Botswana has kicked off a responsible gambling first aid training program aimed at equipping employees across the gambling sector with essential skills to address problem gambling.
The event, which began on September 15, 2025, was held at the Travelodge hotel in Gaborone. It brings together industry workers for a week of sessions designed to encourage a safer and more compliant gambling environment.
The training aligns directly with the provisions of the Gambling Act of 2012, which mandates regulatory bodies to promote responsible practices within the industry. Throughout the duration of the workshop, participants, including casino staff, bookmakers and other sector employees, will be trained to identify signs of problematic gambling behaviours and provide initial support to affected individuals.
The opening session on Monday delved into an overview of the Gambling Act, real-world case studies, and the impacts of problem gambling on mental health. Combining theoretical discussions with hands-on exercises, participants learned practical skills, such as how to engage customers in sensitive conversations about gambling-related issues.
The initiative comes in response to the growing number of problem gambling cases recorded in the country in recent months. The training is one of the initiatives the Gambling Authority has deployed to mitigate the personal and societal harms associated with excessive gambling. It builds on past efforts, such as a June 2025 session that trained participants to identify problem gambling behaviours.
With the foundational knowledge introduced on day one, topics will become increasingly in-depth as the week progresses. The Gambling Authority enjoined all stakeholders to apply the knowledge gained throughout the week to promote responsible gambling in their operations.
