Botswana regulator takes responsible gambling campaign to Kokotsha Derby
The authority encouraged bettors to treat gambling as a form of entertainment rather than a source of income.
Botswana.- The Botswana Gambling Authority has announced its participation in the 2026 Kokotsha July Derby, using the event to promote responsible gambling and raise awareness of legal and regulated gambling.
In a social media post on July 20, the Authority said it joined the annual horse racing event, organised by the Kokotsha Community Horse Racing Association, at the Resting Place Grounds in the Kgalagadi District, where horse racing enthusiasts from Kokotsha and neighbouring villages gathered to support local riders.
During the event, the Authority’s director of responsible gambling and corporate affairs Linnet Mafukidze, urged members of the public to gamble responsibly and participate only in gambling activities offered by licensed and regulated operators.
The director encouraged bettors to treat gambling as a form of entertainment rather than a source of income, reminding attendees to gamble within their means and avoid chasing losses. The Authority said responsible gambling helps minimise the social and financial harms associated with excessive gambling.
Attendees were also urged to verify that gambling operators are licensed by the Botswana Gambling Authority before placing bets, as licensed operators are required to comply with regulatory standards designed to protect consumers and ensure fair gambling practices.
The Authority said participating in community events enables it to engage directly with the public on responsible betting and the importance of using licensed gaming services.
The Kokotsha July Derby has grown beyond a sporting competition to become a significant community gathering in southern Botswana. According to the organisers, the event promotes local talent, strengthens social cohesion and creates economic opportunities by attracting horse owners, breeders, traders and visitors from across the region.
As part of ongoing improvements to the event, the Kokotsha Community Horse Racing Association introduced professional starting gates earlier this year to promote safer and fairer races.
