Botswana is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s gambling and gaming industry, as the country hosts the BiG Africa Summit for the first time. Officially opening the event at the Gaborone International Convention Centre (GICC), Minister of Trade Tiroeaone Ntsima emphasized Botswana’s commitment to fostering a well-regulated, transparent, and investor-friendly gambling sector.

“This gathering of industry experts, policymakers, and investors is a testament to the ever-growing importance of the gambling and gaming industry in Botswana, Africa, and beyond,” Ntsima stated. “Botswana is open for business, and we welcome strategic partners to walk with us as we build a better future for all.”

Ntsima highlighted that Botswana’s selection as the host country is no coincidence but a reflection of its growing gaming industry. The issuance of multiple new gambling licenses in 2024 has set the stage for industry expansion. The government is currently reviewing gambling legislation to eliminate trade barriers, streamline investment processes, and create job opportunities.

“Our stable economic environment, good governance, and robust regulatory framework make Botswana an ideal jurisdiction for industry growth,” Ntsima said. “Under President Duma Gideon Boko’s leadership, we are repositioning Botswana as a hub for investment, innovation, and responsible gambling.”

As a member of the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) and the Gaming Regulators Africa Forum (GRAF), Botswana is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity in the gambling industry. Ntsima pointed to the country’s Responsible Gambling Programme, which was recognized as the Best Responsible Gambling Initiative in Africa at the Gaming Tech Summit Africa in Kenya.

“Some of our key responsible gambling initiatives include the Self-Help Portal, which allows individuals to access self-exclusion tools and support services online, as well as a 24-hour toll-free helpline for those facing gambling-related harm,” Ntsima noted.

The Minister also announced plans to develop a comprehensive Horse Racing Strategy aimed at boosting the horse racing and betting industries. “This initiative will create employment and further position Botswana as a key player in the African gaming landscape,” Ntsima said, urging stakeholders to align with the project.