Botswana launches Phase 3 of Motshameko O Phepha responsible gambling campaign
Activities included roadshow sessions featuring local performers and messages on controlling gambling habits.
Botswana.- The Botswana Gambling Authority has kicked off Phase 3 of its Motshameko O Phepha campaign, continuing its push to raise awareness about responsible gambling and educate communities on the risks associated with excessive gambling.
The launch took place on Friday, March 13 in Francistown, with a motorcade behind Gako, winding its way through the city to Loja Mall and Super Spar before concluding at Chedu Choga Shops to draw attention and encourage participation. Activities included roadshow sessions featuring local performers and messages on controlling gambling habits.
Initially unveiled in September 2025, the campaign, meaning “clean gambling” in Setswana, is being carried out in six-month phases, with plans to cover all major towns and surrounding villages across the country. By early March 2026, the authority had visited 173 sites and reached more than 22,000 people, progressing towards the target of 500 locations nationwide.
The campaign is in response to growing concerns over problem gambling in Botswana. According to a national survey, 13 per cent of gamblers face potential problems, while 3.4 per cent are already experiencing clear issues. Nearly one in five people aged 18 to 24 are at risk, and the rise of online betting has amplified risks, particularly for women.
At the first phase launch in Francistown last year, Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship and MP for Francistown East, Hon. Tiroeaone Ntsima, said: “This campaign is a symbol of the Ministry’s and the Gambling Authority’s shared commitment to building a gambling industry that is not only safe and well-regulated, but also aligned with Environmental, Social and Governance principles.”
The Botswana gambling industry generates around 250m pula (€15.9m) annually. Projections show revenue could exceed 1bn pula (€63.5m) in the coming financial year. The campaign aims to support this growth while keeping the sector safe and compliant.
