Key Highlights
- Operating revenue projection stands at P108 million (approximately $7.9M) for the 2025/26 fiscal period
- Plans underway to slash state subvention in half, dropping from $2.2M to $1.1M
- Income has surged from $215,000 in 2021/22 to reach $1.8M in 2024/25
- More than 400 employment opportunities generated through casinos and betting operators by early 2026
- Total gambling turnover expected to surpass $73M threshold by March 2026
The Gambling Authority of Botswana has announced an ambitious operating revenue target of P108 million—equivalent to roughly $7.9 million—for the upcoming 2025/26 financial cycle. These figures were shared during presentations before the Parliamentary Standing Committee overseeing Statutory Bodies and State Enterprises.
According to regulatory officials, this anticipated growth demonstrates how a well-regulated gaming marketplace is progressively diminishing dependence on taxpayer-funded support mechanisms.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Moruntshi Kemorwale informed parliamentary members that the organization has successfully developed diverse revenue channels including licensing fees, supervisory charges, oversight of promotional activities, and various regulatory income sources since its operational launch.
Financial data reveals remarkable expansion. The Authority’s earnings jumped from P2.94 million ($215,000) during the 2021/22 period to P24 million ($1.8 million) in 2024/25. The P108 million forecast represents a substantial leap compared to these earlier benchmarks.
Drive Toward Fiscal Autonomy
A primary objective for the regulatory body involves diminishing its dependence on government subsidization. Kemorwale indicated the organization is collaborating with its governing Board to reduce state funding by 50 percent—from P30 million ($2.2 million) down to P15 million ($1.1 million)—within the shortest feasible timeframe.
Chief Financial Officer Tshepang Magang explained that recently introduced licensing classifications and enhanced supervisory fee structures are bolstering the transition toward complete financial independence. The Authority has set 2028 as its target date for achieving total self-sufficiency.
Employment Impact and Sector Expansion
The gaming industry is demonstrating tangible effects on workforce development. Data from early 2026 shows that casino establishments and recently authorized bookmaking operations have collectively generated over 400 employment positions.
Regulatory representatives anticipate this employment figure will continue climbing as wagering and gaming enterprises expand their footprint throughout the nation.
Regarding sector performance, aggregate gambling turnover was projected to exceed P1 billion ($73 million) before the close of March 2026. This follows the industry already surpassing the P700 million ($51 million) milestone at the conclusion of 2025.
The Authority has maintained its commitment to responsible gaming practices alongside tracking expansion metrics. Kemorwale outlined a comprehensive approach to preventing problem gambling, supported through public awareness initiatives and collaborative partnerships.
Unauthorized gaming activities continue to present regulatory challenges. Officials highlighted coin-operated games, card-based gambling, and unofficial horse racing wagering as segments requiring intensified monitoring and enforcement measures.
The regulator’s trajectory toward budget independence, coupled with expanding employment opportunities and climbing gross revenues, signals a transformative period for Botswana’s gaming sector.
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