October 10, 2024 3 min read

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Fact-checked by Stoyan Todorov

Botswana Gambling Authority Issues New Licenses, Prompting Industry Growth

Following an extensive process that included public consultations and hearings, 10 companies were granted Betting Licenses, while 6 received Limited Payout Machine licenses

The Botswana Gambling Authority has made a big move to boost the country’s gambling industry. They have given out several licenses that will shake things up and help the economy grow. Marvin Torto, chairperson of the Botswana Gambling Authority, shared this news. 

Botswana Gambling Authority Awards 16 Licenses After Thorough Review

The process started with a call for applications back in 2023. The Authority got 32 applications in total — 16 for Betting and 16 for Limited Payout Machine (LPM) licenses. A required applicant meeting drew people from 77 companies showing the sector could grow. Torto said that after a thorough process with public input and hearings, they gave Betting Licenses to 10 companies and LPM licenses to 6, reported The Voice of Botswana

The results show a new focus on citizen ownership, with Batswana owning 72% of these licensed companies together. Also, locals own most of the 10 companies, which Torto called key to make sure the industry helps the local economy in tangible ways.

Additionally, the rollout of LPM licenses plays a crucial role for wholesale operators and independent site operators alike. Wholesale operators will take charge of running and upkeeping gambling machines in approved spots, while independent site operators can host these machines at different places such as bars and restaurants, without owning the equipment themselves. This setup is likely to result in more than 200 gambling sites popping up across the country, with most being owned by citizens. What is more, 40% of the money these places make will go to local citizens.

Gambling Industry Expansion to Bring Over 2,000 Jobs

When it comes to jobs, the companies that got licenses have promised to create 2,017 direct positions, with a special push to help women, young people, and those with disabilities. Torto also stressed that most of the goods and services needed for these businesses will come from local sources, which will spread economic benefits around.

The Botswana Gambling Authority wants to make sure the industry’s growth helps other sectors too, like building, sports, healthcare, and schools. Torto urged local business owners to offer places for gambling machines, as he expects more people will want them after these new licenses were given out.

To tackle worries about how gambling affects society, the Authority has kicked off several programs to encourage responsible gaming. These include a helpline you can call for free anytime and a self-help website that provides counseling and resources in several languages.

Also, the Authority’s public awareness campaign, “Motshameko o phepa” (Clean Gaming), has reached over 100 villages and plans to grow even more in the months ahead.Torto highlighted the need to balance the economic gains from gambling with protecting people’s well-being reaffirming the Authority’s dedication to responsible gaming practices.

Silvia has dabbled in all sorts of writing – from content writing for social media to movie scripts. She has a Bachelor's in Screenwriting and experience in marketing and producing documentary films. With her background as a customer support agent within the gambling industry, she brings valuable insight to the Gambling News writers’ team.

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