The Gambling Authority in Botswana has published the outcomes of its National Prevalence of Excessive and Problem Gambling Study, indicating that young adults aged between 21 and 35 are particularly prone to problematic gambling behaviours. The research shows that more than a third, specifically 36.6 per cent, of the population participates in gambling activities on both regulated and unregulated platforms, with 6.7 per cent of these individuals displaying signs of excessive or problematic conduct. This proportion escalates to 12 per cent for those engaging with illegal gambling sites.
Unemployment and financial pressures have been identified as the primary catalysts for such behaviours among the 21 to 35 age group. Furthermore, the study discloses that over 20 per cent of gamblers commenced their involvement prior to attaining the legal age of 21. According to SCCG Management, these findings underscore the vulnerabilities exacerbated by online and illicit platforms, which often lack adequate safeguards against addiction. The research also reveals gender disparities, with 4.4 per cent of women and 8.3 per cent of men exhibiting strong addiction tendencies, as noted in various reports summarising the data.
Commissioned by the Ministry of Trade and Entrepreneurship, the report was presented during a prominent stakeholder gathering at the AVANI Gaborone Resort and Casino. This dissemination builds upon earlier investigations, including a 2020 study on prevalence and two 2023 projects examining socio-economic impacts and risk factors associated with problem gambling. As detailed by the Gambling Authority website, these prior efforts have been instrumental in shaping evidence-based policies and initiatives to foster safer gambling practices.
At the event, the Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship emphasised the necessity for prompt and resolute interventions to mitigate the escalating problem of gambling-related harm. He portrayed the report as a reflection of the tangible effects on individuals and families, stressing the perils posed by unregulated online channels that target susceptible groups, particularly the youth, without offering protections.
In response, the government has outlined a multifaceted strategy to combat these issues. This encompasses a heightened enforcement against illegal online operations, educational outreach programmes in educational institutions and local communities, enhanced provision of counselling and assistance resources, and initiatives to promote entrepreneurship among young people. Licensed entities will face more rigorous oversight, including the mandatory adoption of responsible gambling tools and employee training programmes. According to Focus Gaming News, the objective is to cultivate an environment where gambling is conducted safely and responsibly, without exploiting those in financial or emotional distress, rather than imposing a complete prohibition.
These measures align with ongoing efforts such as the Motshameko o Phepa campaign, launched in September 2025 in Francistown and set to continue until March 2026, which aims to educate the public across more than 500 sites nationwide. As reported by the Gambling Authority, this initiative, informed by the study’s insights, includes community engagements, a toll-free helpline, and collaborations with influencers to promote awareness and prevention. The broader context reveals significant expansion in Botswana’s gambling sector in recent years, with the Authority granting numerous licences to bolster industry growth while prioritising harm reduction.
The study’s revelations come amid a global backdrop where gambling generates substantial revenues, yet they highlight the urgent need for balanced regulation in Botswana to protect vulnerable demographics. Ongoing public awareness drives through media channels and partnerships with educational bodies further reinforce these commitments, aiming to sustain healthy gambling habits and community well-being.