The regulatory boards of Botswana and Lesotho have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote collaboration between the jurisdictions.
Signed by the Botswana Gambling Authority (GA) Board’s Chairman, Marvin Torto, and the Lesotho Casino Board Chairman, Pokello Mahlomola, the agreement seeks to focus on knowledge-sharing in relation to licensing and compliance, anti-money laundering efforts and responsible gambling.
“This partnership is a reflection of our shared values – good governance, fairness, and innovation,” said Torto. “We are excited to walk this journey with our Lesotho counterparts and build a stronger, more resilient regulatory environment.”
The MoU was sealed during a GA-hosted visit to Botswana by the Lesotho Casino Board.
During the trip, delegates shared best practices and took part in discussions regarding raising standards and ensuring player protection in the region. In addition, the Lesotho Casino Board also toured operators such as Sunbet Botswana and Betway Botswana.
As well as welcoming delegates to their country, members of the Botswana GA also travelled to solidify their long-standing relationship with the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
The pair signed an MoU in 2023, and during the GA’s latest visit, sessions were held on compliance and enforcement, how to conduct anti-money laundering assessments and the use of technology to tackle illegal gambling operations.
“We’re continuing to work closely together on key issues that transcend jurisdictions around the world, and help raise the standards for the global gambling industry,” stated the UKGC.
“We’re hopeful this insight into our ways of working have proved fruitful and will go a long way in assisting our colleagues from Botswana in further developing the regulation at home, and across Africa.”
Botswana issues ten new licences
Alongside securing international relationships, the Botswana GA has also issued ten bookmaker licences.
So far, according to the GA, six of the license holders have begun operations, one has withdrawn, and the remaining three are expected to commence operations in due course.
Among the brands to have begun operation is BetXplosion, a platform that is 100%-owned by Botswana citizens. As part of its licence obligations, the company has also committed to allocating 5% of its annual GGR to corporate social responsibility activities, focused on youth programmes, education and sports.
