The Gambling Authority has officially awarded the first-ever betting and Limited Payout Machines (LPM) licenses in Botswana, marking a milestone in the development of the country’s gambling industry.
Speaking at a media engagement in Gaborone on Tuesday, the Authority’s board chairperson, Mr. Marvin Torto, emphasized that the licenses are a key component of the Authority’s strategy to diversify the gambling sector and expand opportunities for Batswana.
Following the June 5, 2023, publication of the Request for Applications (RFAs) for Bookmaker and Totalisator licenses, the application process was completed with transparency and public engagement.
Mr. Torto highlighted that a total of 16 companies were granted licenses, with 10 receiving betting licenses and six obtaining LPM licenses.
“We opened the door for public participation, feedback, and engagement,” he stated, underscoring that the process included public inspections and hearings.
The participation of Batswana in the ownership structure was also significant, with 72% of the aggregate shareholding in the licensed companies being held by citizens, and 10 out of the 16 companies being majority citizen-owned.
The authority sees this as a clear demonstration of how the industry can bring substantial economic benefits to the local population.
In addition to enhancing citizen ownership, Mr. Torto noted that the newly licensed operators had committed to creating over 2,000 jobs, with a focus on empowering women, youth, and people with disabilities.
The licenses will result in the establishment of over 200 gambling sites across the country, primarily citizen-owned venues.
Local suppliers are expected to benefit from the industry, and the companies involved have pledged to invest in infrastructure development, sports, healthcare, and education through corporate social initiatives.
Mr. Torto also announced plans for a continued public education campaign on responsible gambling, which has already reached over 100 villages across Botswana.
