License approval from the Lotteries Board of Namibia has paved the way for the country’s first state lottery, which is expected to launch within the next one to two years.
John Shimaneni, CEO of the Lotteries Board of Namibia, shared this update with The Brief. He stated, “At present, the plans to launch the state lottery are at an advanced preparatory stage.”
The Board is currently working on procuring Transactional Advisory Services to help appoint a licensed Lottery Operator, in line with the Lotteries Act. Finalizing legal, operational, and procurement processes is also in progress, with a phased rollout planned. Internal policies and regulatory systems are being developed to support the launch
Shimaneni emphasized that the lottery will fund key development areas, including youth empowerment, education, healthcare, and community development, with proceeds managed through the State Lottery Trust Fund.
“To ensure transparency and accountability, a grant funding framework is being developed, along with independent audits and strict reporting requirements,” he added.
The Board is also creating a Responsible Gaming Strategy, which will include public awareness campaigns, age restrictions, and support services for gambling-related harm. Licensed operators will be required to adhere to strict compliance and ethical standards.
“The proposed establishment of a state lottery represents a strategic opportunity for Namibia to mobilize domestic revenue for national development while promoting job creation, innovation, and inclusive growth,” Shimaneni stated.
This project is part of National Development Plan 6 and is projected to generate over N$100 million in revenue by 2030.
