07 May 2024

Gambling Authority (GA) unveiled a digital self-help portal and a 24/7 Toll-Free Line aimed at promoting responsible gambling practices and supporting individuals struggling with addiction.

Officiating the launch at the Three Dikgosi Monument in Gaborone recently the Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Mmusi Kgafela said GA had over the years actively engaged in responsible gambling research projects aimed at better understanding the dynamics of gambling in Botswana.

Mr Kgafela said amongst other things, the study revealed the prevalence of problem gambling was at five per cent in the country, a disturbing figure for the government. He said through GA they were working tirelessly to reduce problem gambling by at least 2 percent by 2028.

The minister said the findings from the study would inform interventions and support services aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of problem gambling on individuals and communities.

“The second research project examined the socio-economic impact of gambling in Botswana, providing valuable insights into the contributions of the gambling industry to the economy, as well as its broader implications for social welfare and development,” he said.

The research according to Mr Kgafela would serve as a foundational resource for policy-makers and stakeholders seeking to harness the potential benefits of gambling while mitigating its associated risks.Additionally, Mr Kgafela said the GA conducted a study on the risk factors for problem gambling in Botswana, identifying key factors that predispose individuals to develop problematic gambling behaviours.

By understanding these risk factors, ‘we can design targeted prevention and intervention strategies to address the root causes of problem gambling and promote responsible gaming practices,’ he said.

Notably, he said responsible gambling self-help portal served as a vital resource for individuals seeking assistance with gambling-related issues or striving to maintain healthy gambling habits.

“This platform offers a range of services, including self-exclusion, counselling, third-party exclusion applications, and cancellation of exclusions,” he said.

Mr Kgafela said users could  access valuable information on responsible gambling practices, self-assessment tools, support resources, and tips for managing gambling behaviour.

Meanwhile, Gambling Authority CEO, Mr Peter Kesitilwe said the findings of recent studies underscored the urgent need for action, revealing both the prevalence of problem gambling and its far-reaching socio-economic impacts. Armed with this knowledge, he said, they were better equipped to address the root causes of problem gambling and promote responsible gaming practices. ENDS