Just one month after Sunbet launched its online sports and betting platform in Botswana, the company has seen a significant leap in interest, with a 4 700% increase in signups.
Sunbet said the company is honoured to be the first operator to receive regulatory approval from Gambling Authority (GA). “We are immensely proud to be Botswana’s first online betting and gambling operator, and we are committed to expanding our presence with our exciting and innovative range of ever increasing online games, all on a safe, secure space, and on a stable platform,” said Sunbet Botswana Director, Tshiamo James Motsumi.
In South Africa, Sunbet has sustained an impressive growth trajectory and is currently poised to exceed its growth targets. The company is part of the Sun International Group, the leading hospitality and gambling company from South Africa, with 40-plus years of experience in running casinos, and 11 years in online gaming. The brand earned the trust of Botswana residents as the founder and long-time owner of the Gaborone Sun.
Sun International’s CEO Anthony Leeming said, “The rise in active Sunbet players was a key driver of its performance, supported by marketing efforts, the launch of new games and ongoing improvements to the overall player experience.” He said the company will leverage its strong brand and market presence to expand its customer base, “Through strategic planning, efficient capital allocation, cost management, and a focus on operational excellence, Sun International will sustain its growth trajectory and grow stakeholder value.”
A further reason to trust Sunbet is its partnership with MyZaka by Mascom to offer convenient and seamless, fee-free deposits with MyZaka by Mascom. The partnership ensures that customers can make deposits quickly, securely, and without incurring additional fees.
Popular radio host and TV presenter Big Fish said, “Sunbet’s entry into Botswana is a significant milestone for the betting industry. They are the first to introduce sports specific betting through their support of the Motokwe Race, which is a major step forward. What stands out even more is their commitment to working with local site owners for their betting halls. This approach not only strengthens the industry but also plays a crucial role in economic diversification, wealth creation, and job opportunities — key factors in driving sustainable growth for Botswana.”
One of the conditions for licensing included setting up physical Sunbet stores across the country to complement the online offering. Site inspections of the stores and tests to measure the safety and consistency of the technology were conducted between November last year and February 2025. Once the GA was satisfied that all of the necessary conditions had been met, Sunbet received Botswana’s first online gaming and betting license and officially opened on the 13th February 2025.
“Coupled with our physical stores and our innovative online platform we intend to rapidly roll out exciting new games from slots and table games to sports betting, crash games, lucky numbers, virtuals and much more. Our innovative and constantly evolving tech platform is unmatched, and we can also offer assurance that Sunbet puts the safety and security of our customers first. Our trusted Sun International promise is our commitment to delivering a trustworthy, reliable and secure gaming service,” said Motsumi.
