The Gambling Board of Namibia (GBN), tasked with implementing new gambling reforms, is currently not fully operational, as noted by Indileni Daniel, the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. In October, the Ministry hosted workshops across the country, and the feedback from these sessions will be compiled in Windhoek to advance the gazetting process.
One of the proposed reforms introduces new operator fees to enhance oversight through a central electronic monitoring system (CEMS), according to a report from NBC regarding the Keetmanshoop workshop. The GBN has already sought vendors for a remote, real-time CEMS under section 90 of the Gaming and Entertainment Control Act 2018. This system aims to track and report gambling transactions at licensed establishments and includes the development of an automated licensing platform. The deadline for submitting tenders for both initiatives has been extended to November 5.
Additionally, the GBN has announced a public consultation workshop scheduled for October 15, 2026, which will cover licensing requirements and technical compliance for bookmaker and totalisator licence applicants. These proposals also involve changes to licensing and registration processes, including a new electronic software lottery licence aimed at regulating digital and online gaming platforms.
GBN's Acting Chief Executive, Johannes Erastus, indicated that the proposed framework is based on extensive research and benchmarking. "Our laws, specifically the Act, require the boards to align with international best practices and to engage with regional and international colleagues and jurisdictions to inform and assist us in shaping the Namibian gambling space," said Erastus. Ben Shikongo, the GBN chairperson, emphasized the need for formal licensing in order to establish legitimate businesses during the Keetmanshoop workshop, and he urged the government to expedite the process of gazetting the fees, particularly those previously set high.
Under the existing 2021 regulations, holders of casino, gambling house, bar gambling, and shebeen (small drinking establishment) licences pay a 10% levy on net monthly income, defined as gambling income minus winnings paid out, excluding revenue from food and beverages. Totalisator licence holders face a separate 10% levy on gross monthly takings.
Despite these proposed reforms, Daniel pointed out that the GBN has staffing challenges that hinder its ability to fulfill its mandate. The board is not fully operational, with personnel still needed. This staffing shortfall affects not only licensing but also consumer education and rehabilitation programs. Daniel stated that the lack of qualified staff has limited regulation capabilities for gambling houses and online platforms, as well as the collection of fees and levies. "Effective regulation, especially for online gambling, is currently a challenge, not just in Namibia but globally," she remarked.
In her previous comments from February, Daniel cited inadequate oversight as a factor costing Namibia revenue and exposing its citizens to potential gambling-related social harm. Seimy Shidute, deputy executive director of MEFT, highlighted the necessity of the amendments to adapt to global developments and advancing technological trends.
Regarding public revenue from the gambling sector, figures reveal the extent of government collections without indicating the overall market size. The Ministry of Finance's 2023/24 accountability report set a target of NAD5 million for annual gambling income levies, yet zero has been collected for that item. Separately, Daniel informed parliament that NAD17 million had been collected thus far for the Gambling Trust Fund.
The push for reforms coincides with increased tax enforcement. As previously reported in March, the Namibia Revenue Agency has entered into an agreement with the GBN to share data on gambling operators and winnings. Revenue commissioner Sam Shivute remarked on the agency’s intention to compare industry data against tax records to ensure compliance and proper tax collection.
Looking ahead, Shikongo confirmed that submissions from regional workshops would be consolidated in Windhoek before moving to the next stage of the reform process. Any legal adjustments will hinge on whether regulations need to be gazetted or if primary legislation amendments are required, which would involve parliamentary review. The successful implementation of these reforms depends on the GBN overcoming its staffing issues and building the capacity to enforce the new regulatory framework. As of now, these changes remain proposals awaiting operational status, aiming to enhance oversight in the gambling sector amidst ongoing regulatory challenges.
