Bet267 debuts in Botswana amid push for safer gambling

The Gambling Authority of Botswana has officially endorsed the launch of Bet267 Botswana, a new entrant in the country's betting scene, signaling a major milestone in the nation’s gambling industry. The launch event took place Thursday morning in Mogoditshane, attracting industry executives, government officials, and media representatives.

Speaking at the event, the Authority’s Chief Executive Officer, Emolemo Peter Kesitilwe, reaffirmed the regulator’s commitment to creating a gambling environment that is safe, transparent, and economically beneficial.

“Today is more than just the opening of a business—it’s a clear statement about our collective intent to foster responsible and inclusive gambling in Botswana,” said Kesitilwe. “We welcome Bet267 as a strategic partner in shaping a gambling market that is not only commercially viable but also technologically driven and socially accountable.”

Kesitilwe noted that while approximately 550,000 Batswana engage in betting activities, only 40% currently do so through licensed operators. This leaves a majority of gamblers exposed to unregulated platforms, which pose consumer protection risks and deprive the nation of potential revenue.

Highlighting the scale of the opportunity, Kesitilwe revealed that in March 2025 alone, local players placed bets worth P150 million, generating P15 million in gross gambling revenue (GGR). “If this is what 40% of the market yields, we could see GGR exceeding P450 million annually if we bring the remaining market into the regulated fold,” he said.

To address these gaps, the Authority is spearheading significant regulatory reforms. These include proposed amendments to the Gambling Act of 2012 and a comprehensive review of the outdated 2002 Gambling Policy. The reforms aim to align Botswana's gambling framework with international standards, improve oversight of digital gambling, combat money laundering, and lower the legal gambling age from 21 to 18.

“We are not just regulating for the sake of control—we are building a future-ready, responsible gambling sector that can contribute meaningfully to our economy,” Kesitilwe emphasized.