An accelerated upward revenue trajectory, tax volatility in other African markets and a positive outlook from Super Group all indicate a thriving future for Botswana as the next key emerging market in Africa.
According to the latest report by the Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship in Botswana, the gaming and gambling industry is set to produce growth beyond P1bn (€78m).
The Ngami Times reported that Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship Tiroeaone Ntsima stated: “Globally gambling generates US$500bn yearly, while in Botswana an average of P250m (€19.5m) is generated annually. Projections indicate this could surpass P1bn (€78m) in the next financial year.”
However, he cautioned that the country’s Gambling Authority must ensure that it works to safeguard families and young people, as well as strengthen communities.
“Gambling must never compromise the wellbeing of our people,” he warned.
Africa continues to be a key driver for Super Group, with CEO Neal Menashe describing it as ‘a standout’ since its opening.
At a time when other markets in Africa are tightening their tax frameworks and implementing more stringent measures around advertising, the strategy of Botswana to embrace the sector is paying off in terms of economic uplift.
Zambia is one of the markets that has tightened its framework for gambling, with Menashe assuring investors that it continues to navigate headwinds in the country and makes good progress amidst a challenging environment.
Fuelling the focus on the regulated market in Botswana was concerning data linked to players’ significant engagement with the unlicensed market..
Data released in May detailed that during 2024, roughly 40% of the country’s gamblers participated in the licensed market. A figure that the government has taken significant steps to grow, much to the benefit of player safety and the regulated space.
Following this, the country’s regulator expanded its regulated market through the issuing of ten new licenses, including welcoming Betway as a bookmaker.
At the time, Betway Botswana Country Manager Mitchelle France-Mabiletsa laid out a strong focus on Botswana that has evidently proven fruitful.
She said: “We are not stopping there. In the months ahead, we will continue to build our presence, expand the team and play a more meaningful role in the communities.”
Peter Emolemo Kesitilwe, CEO of the Botswana Gambling Authority (BGA), also highlighted the key role that Betway should play in shaping the market.
“Our licensing regime is grounded in integrity and competitive transparency. We do not license loosely. We license for national value,” Kesitilwe said.
“Let this industry grow, but grow with accountability. Let it create jobs but protect players. Let it generate revenue but uphold fairness. To all stakeholders, let us lead this industry with integrity,” the CEO concluded.
Betway recently departed the Zambian market, following continued rallying against the touted introduction of a 10% excise duty tax on all betting stakes.
It prompted an application from BetPawa and Betway to stop the tax,however, these efforts were futile and were ultimately dismissed by the country’s Constitutional Court.
