A new report has revealed a sharp rise in problem and underage gambling in Botswana, prompting the government to announce tougher regulations and public awareness campaigns to protect vulnerable groups.
Launched Thursday by Trade and Entrepreneurship Minister Tiroeaone Ntsima, the report found that 36.6 percent of Batswana actively engage in gambling, with 6.7 percent of the population showing signs of excessive or problem gambling behaviour.
Over 20 percent of gamblers are underage, despite laws restricting participation to those aged 21 and above.
The study also recorded a 12 percent increase in illegal gambling activity, driven largely by unregulated online platforms.
The report attributed unemployment and financial stress as key drivers of problem gambling, particularly among individuals aged 21 to 35.
Ntsima warned that without intervention, Botswana risked a surge in addiction and financial instability among its youth.
“Our goal is not to eliminate gambling but to protect those who are most at risk,” he said.
The minister unveiled a multi-pronged strategy that includes stricter regulation of illegal and online gambling platforms, expanded public education campaigns in schools and communities, improved access to counselling and rehabilitation services, and promotion of entrepreneurship and financial literacy as economic alternatives.
Licensed operators would also face enhanced accountability measures, including mandatory responsible gambling features and staff training.
Ntsima called for collective action from civil society, industry stakeholders, and the public to support the Gambling Authority’s efforts.
JN/APA