Namibia targets N$100 revenue from gambling sector by 2030
Under NDP6, the government aims to expand the gambling sector, increase jobs and enhance regulatory systems.
Namibia.- Namibia plans to generate over N$100m (€5.1m) in revenue from its gambling sector, under the sixth National Development Plan (NDP6). The sector currently supports more than 4 ,140 jobs with revenue that grew from N$9.3m (€0.474m) in 2022/23 to N$32m (€1.63m) in the last financial year, with a projected annual growth rate of 8.1 per cent by 2030, according to a New Era report.
The government aims to strengthen the industry through measures such as the digitalisation of gaming operations, rollout of online management systems and a central monitoring platform to ensure transparency and compliance. Preparatory work is also underway for a new state lottery, which is expected to launch within the next 12–24 months.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted the sector’s role in economic diversification. “Namibia is well positioned and geared to tap into the market for the economic and social development of the people. The establishment of the State lottery alone is projected to generate over N$100 million in revenue by 2030 and to contribute significantly to the gross domestic product of the country”, she said, according to New Era.
Nandi-Ndaitwah also pointed to technology as a driver of growth and added: “The ramifications of market, mobile gaming and advancements in AR/VR technologies are key drivers of growth.” T
he NDP6 strategy links the gambling sector to tourism, with the government targeting an increase in international arrivals from 863 872 to 1.8 million by 2030.
Lottery launch progresses
Preparations are underway for Namibia’s first state lottery, which will complement the broader gambling sector. The Lotteries Board of Namibia (LBN) is finalising preparatory work, including the appointment of a licensed operator and implementation of digital management systems, ahead of a phased rollout.
John Shimaneni, CEO of the LBN said, according to the Brief: “At present, the plans to launch the state lottery are at an advanced preparatory stage. The Board is currently engaged in the procurement of Transactional Advisory Services to assist with the appointment of a licensed Lottery Operator, in accordance with the Lotteries Act.”
LBN is finalising legal, operational and procurement processes, with internal policies and oversight systems being developed to support a phased rollout. The lottery is expected to launch within one to two years, with proceeds to be channelled into a State Lottery Trust Fund to support youth development, education, health and community initiatives.
