The President of the Republic of Botswana, H.E, Dr. Mokgweetsi Masisi this morning officially opened the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR 2023) conference at the Gaborone International Convention Centre (GICC) in Gaborone, Botswana.
Held under the theme,
“Bringing ideas together: The exchange of excellence and innovation in regulatory practice”,
IAGR Conference 2023 is a significant event in the world of gaming regulation, and has brought together, gaming regulators from around the world to the beautiful country of Botswana courtesy of the Gambling Authority.
In his address President Masisi outlined key points about the Gambling Licensing Plan and its expected impact on the country:
Job Creation
The Gambling Licensing Plan is expected to create around 2,797 direct jobs in Botswana.
Responsible Gambling Campaign
The government has emphasized the importance of responsible gambling by implementing a robust campaign alongside the licensing plan.
This highlights a commitment to ensuring that the industry is regulated in a way that protects consumers and promotes responsible behaviour.
Harnessing Industry Potential: The primary goal of the licensing plan is to harness the potential of the gambling industry.
This indicates that the government sees the industry as a source of economic growth and is looking to maximize its benefits.
Support for Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs): The licensing plan is designed to support SMMEs in the gambling sector.
This support may include various measures to help smaller businesses participate in the industry and thrive.
Investment and Diversification
The plan is expected to attract investments into the country, which will lead to job creation and diversification of economic and social value for the people of Botswana.
This would potentially lead to a more dynamic and diversified economy.
Digitisation and Compliance
President Masisi mentioned that SMMEs will be supported through digitisation, particularly the development of a National Central Electronic Monitoring System.
This system aims to make it easier for businesses to comply with the provisions of the Gambling Act of 2012 while also reducing their operating costs.
In summary, the government of Botswana, under the leadership of President Masisi, is taking measures to leverage the gambling industry to create jobs, encourage responsible gambling, support smaller enterprises, and stimulate investment and economic diversification.
The digitization of processes is also part of the strategy to facilitate compliance with gambling regulations
