Botswana’s gambling sector poised to surpass $33.2 Million in annual revenue
Botswana’s gambling industry is on track to exceed P450 million ($33.2 million) in annual Gross Gambling Revenue (GGR), driven by robust betting activity, an untapped pool of players, and planned regulatory reforms. Emolemo Peter Kesitilwe, CEO of the Botswana Gambling Authority, outlined the current performance and growth potential during the recent launch of Bet267 in Mogoditshane.
Strong March performance
In March 2025 alone, Botswana’s gamblers wagered P150 million ($11.1 million), of which $9.9 million was paid out in winnings. That month generated P15 million in Gross Gambling Revenue. “In March 2025 alone, the total value of wagers and bets by Botswana players was P150 million ($11.1 million), with payouts totalling P135 million ($9.9 million), resulting in P15 million ($1.1 million) in Gross Gambling Revenue (GGR) that month,” Kesitilwe stated, underlining the swift revenue cycle in licensed operations.
Untapped market potential
Despite these figures, only 40% of the country’s estimated 550,000 gamblers participate through licensed channels. The other 60% engage via unregulated platforms, representing significant revenue left on the table. By converting these players to regulated operators, Kesitilwe believes the industry can surpass $33.2 million in annual revenue, creating jobs and supporting economic growth.
Legislative reforms underway
To capture this opportunity, the Gambling Authority is amending the . Key proposed changes include lowering the legal gambling age from 21 to 18 and strengthening Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Financing of Terrorism compliance. Kesitilwe explained how these reforms will broaden market access:
“This change will allow companies like Bet267 to legally enrol more customers who would otherwise migrate to unregulated platforms.”
Anti-money laundering and security measures
Rising digital and cross-border gambling demand stricter oversight. Kesitilwe urged operators to embed robust AML controls within their platforms to guard against anonymous digital payments and international player access. Enhanced reporting standards and regular compliance audits are expected to deter illicit activity and bolster consumer confidence in licensed providers.
Regional comparison highlights opportunity
Botswana’s market may be smaller than some neighbours, but per-capita betting activity ranks among the highest in the region. For context, Kesitilwe pointed to South Africa’s mature market:
“For context, South Africa’s regulated gambling industry, particularly in the betting sector, is significantly more mature and expansive. South Africa’s betting population is estimated at over 6 million, with an annual GGR exceeding ($2.9 billion) R40 billion (approximately P30 billion) ($2.2 billion). This highlights the vast economic potential of a well-regulated and adequately enforced gambling sector.” He added, “With the right policy framework, compliance culture, and public education, we can grow our sector responsibly.”
Job creation and economic impact
Licensed operators are already demonstrating the sector’s socioeconomic benefits. Bet267 currently employs eight licensed staff and has laid out plans to employ 109 people across Letlhakane, Palapye, and Gaborone. Kesitilwe noted that formalising additional operators will generate thousands more jobs in retail outlets, call centres, technology services and compliance roles. Ancillary businesses—hospitality, transport, and marketing—stand to gain as retail foot traffic and digital engagement increase.
Look out for the P450 million ($33.2 million) milestone
With the dual forces of regulatory reform and market conversion underway, Botswana’s gambling sector is on a trajectory to break the P450 million ($ 33.2 million) barrier in annual gross gambling revenue, equivalent to roughly $33.2 million. Authorities expect that improved access, tighter controls, and targeted public awareness campaigns will drive licensed turnover upward. As more players transition from unlicensed sites, the industry will not only boost public revenues but also advance consumer protection and corporate governance.
In the coming months, will publish draft regulations, solicit stakeholder feedback, and roll out compliance training for operators. These measures will aim to ensure that when the national GGR surpasses P450 million ($33.2 million), it does so through transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth.
