Botswana President hails Gambling Authority as sector gears up for 2,000 new jobs
Botswana’s gambling sector is poised to create new jobs, supporting economic diversification and youth employment.
Botswana.- Botswana’s Gambling Authority is set to play a key role in job creation, with more than 2,000 permanent positions expected by the end of the next fiscal year. The update came during President Duma Boko’s recent visit to the Authority, where he met with staff and management.
Acting CEO of the Gambling Authority, Moruntshi Kemorwale, informed the President that the sector is operating safely and remains firmly on track to “deliver the 2,000-plus new jobs”. With youth unemployment at more than 27 per cent, the creation of new roles in operations, regulatory support and administration offers fresh opportunities for young people across the country.
The President encouraged both leadership and employees by saying: “they should continue working closely together to achieve maximum productivity“. His comments reinforced government’s commitment to supporting industries, including the gambling sector, that can diversify the economy and contribute to employment growth.
The president was accompanied by senior government leaders, including the Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Tiroeaone Ntsima, Acting Minister of Agriculture, Edwin Dikoloti, and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Joel Ramaphoi.
Beyond diamonds: diversifying with gambling
Botswana has long relied on diamonds to drive its economy, but the country recently indicated that over-dependence on a single resource can be risky. President Boko officially launched the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BETP) on July 15 in Gaborone.
This initiative aims to broaden Botswana’s economy, reducing its heavy reliance on diamond exports, which account for more than 90 per cent of the country’s total exports. BETP focuses on growing sectors like regulated gambling as well as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services and tourism.
The Gambling Authority’s plan to create these new jobs shows how gambling can do more than entertain. It can provide real opportunities, support economic stability and help Botswana build a stronger, more resilient future.
