The Gambling Authority has just awarded its first-ever Betting and Limited Payout Machines (LPM) licences. This milestone is a significant step towards transforming and diversifying the gambling sector, with a particular focus on keeping the benefits close to home.
Board Chairperson Mr. Marvin T. Torto couldn’t hide his pride as he shared the big news: “We have granted licenses to 16 companies, with a significant 72% citizen ownership. Over 80% of these licenses are majority citizen-owned, ensuring that the benefits of this growing industry flow directly to our people.”
In a country where economic growth is paramount, this move isn’t just about rolling the dice – it’s about betting on Botswana’s future. With over 200 new gambling sites set to spring up across the country, these licenses are poised to do more than just entertain. They’re laying the groundwork for job creation and boosting local businesses in ways that will ripple across the economy.
Betting on Botswana’s People
This new era of licensed gambling comes with a clear focus on making sure that the people of Botswana are at the forefront of the benefits. Mr Torto explained that the licensed companies are going beyond just running businesses—they’ve committed to directly investing in the community: “These licensed companies have committed to creating 2,017 jobs, focusing on women, youth, & people living with disabilities.”
That’s right—this isn’t just a business venture; it’s a social initiative that’s aiming to empower historically underrepresented groups. Women, young people, and those living with disabilities are at the center of the job creation plans, ensuring that this new industry is inclusive and diverse from the ground up.
The sheer scale of job creation is impressive, especially given that the gambling industry is relatively new territory for Botswana. With over 2,000 jobs on the horizon, this could be the beginning of a transformative shift in the country’s labour market.
Responsible Gambling: A Core Focus
Of course, with any expansion in the gambling sector comes the responsibility of managing it in a way that’s sustainable and, most importantly, safe. The Gambling Authority has made it clear that they’re not just interested in profits—they’re taking the issue of responsible gambling seriously.
Mr Torto highlighted some of the measures already in place to ensure that gambling in Botswana remains a controlled and healthy pastime: “We recently launched a 24-hour toll-free responsible gambling helpline and expanded our public education campaigns to reach more than 100 villages.”
That’s right, they’ve gone national with their efforts to raise awareness about the potential risks of gambling. The helpline is a crucial lifeline for those who may need help, and the expanded education campaigns are ensuring that no corner of the country is left out of the conversation. In a sector where the excitement of the win can sometimes overshadow the potential risks, this commitment to responsibility is a welcome move.
