Africa-Press – Botswana. Government is working tirelessly through the Gambling Authority to reduce the prevalence of problem gambling that currently stands at five percent.
Minister of Trade and Industry, Mmusi Kgafela said at the launch of the Gambling Authority (GA)’s Responsible Gambling Self-Help Portal this week that this is a disturbing figure that they plan to reduce by at least two percent by 2028.
The prevalence of problem gambling was revealed by one of the three significant research projects that sought to better understand the dynamics of gambling in Botswana. According to Kgafela, the first research project focused on assessing the prevalence of problem gambling in Botswana, shedding light on the scope and magnitude of this issue within the society.
The second research project on the other hand 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.
“This research will serve as a foundational resource for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to harness the potential benefits of gambling while mitigating its associated risks”, Kgafela said.
The minister further stated that the Gambling Authority conducted a study on the risk factors for problem gambling in Botswana, identifying key factors that predispose individuals to develop problematic gambling behaviours. He explained that by understanding these risk factors, targeted prevention and intervention strategies can be designed to address the root causes of problem gambling and promote responsible gaming practices.
He said the Gambling Authority has been at the forefront of providing Responsible Gambling services to players or gamers, their families, and industry employees. Further, that interventions have been implemented at awareness, prevention, and treatment levels, demonstrating a holistic approach to addressing problem gambling in society.
“These efforts have yielded tangible achievements, including a notable rise in the number of people being rehabilitated after entering the exclusion list.”
Government implores Batswana to stop stigmatising and discriminating against players and gamers because by doing so, they are pushed into hiding, and if they hide, it would be difficult for them to access services such as the self-help portal.
The minister added it is important to create an environment of acceptance and support, where individuals feel comfortable to seek assistance without fear of judgment or discrimination.
Kgafela emphasised the socio-economic benefits of gambling to the economy, adding that the industry contributes significantly to economic growth, thereby generating revenue that supports various government initiatives and services. He stated that taxes collected from gambling activities fund essential public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
According to Kgafela, additionally, the gambling industry creates jobs and stimulates local businesses, thereby contributing to overall economic stability and prosperity.
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