Botswana’s National Assembly has approved the Gambling (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which aims to lower the legal gambling age from 21 to 18 and update the regulatory framework for the country's expanding gambling sector. The bill passed during its third reading on August 13, after thorough debate and clause-by-clause examination in committee. Although the bill has been approved, it is still pending confirmation of presidential assent before becoming law.
The amendment would modify the Gambling Authority Act (Cap. 19:03), with its provisions set to take effect on a date determined by the responsible minister through an official order published in the Government Gazette.
The proposal to lower the gambling age has sparked considerable debate among legislators. Opposition members expressed concerns during committee discussions, arguing that maintaining the legal age at 21 is essential. However, the bill proceeded with Clause 2 intact, which changes references in the Act from "the age of 21" to "the age of 18."
Currently, Botswana sets its legal gambling age at 21, but the amendment seeks to align this with the age of majority in the country, which is 18. Supporters of the change contend that individuals between 18 and 20 already participate as adults in various civic and economic activities. They claim that keeping a separate gambling age of 21 could inadvertently drive younger adults towards unauthorized betting sites.
Labour and Home Affairs Minister Major General Pius Mokgware cautioned against implementing unenforceable regulations, stating, "Do not have legislations which you cannot enforce, it is dangerous."
During the parliamentary discussions, Moshupa/Manyana MP Karabo Gare voiced his opposition to lowering the gambling age, arguing that individuals at 18 lack the capacity to make informed decisions, potentially leading to gambling addiction. Similarly, Botswana Congress Party MP Kenny Kapinga insisted that the current age restriction of 21 should remain, emphasizing the vulnerability of younger adults to gambling exposure.
In January, Acting Gambling Authority CEO Moruntshi Kemorwale noted a decrease in reported gambling problems, falling from 5% in 2020 to 3.4% in 2025, attributing this decline to the National Responsible Gambling Programme and outreach efforts. He reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to public protection while ensuring that gambling contributes positively to Botswana.
The conversation surrounding the legal gambling age comes amid warnings from the Gambling Authority about the risks associated with illegal online betting. Kemorwale pointed out that unregulated platforms were draining approximately P850 million ($63.2 million) from the economy every year and exposing minors to unchecked gambling.
The bill is also designed to strengthen anti-money laundering measures and align Botswana's gambling framework with international standards, specifically the Financial Intelligence Act and Financial Action Task Force guidelines. Key proposed changes include enhancing due diligence requirements, beneficial ownership disclosure, and mandatory monitoring system connections for gambling devices on licensed premises.
To deter violations, the bill raises penalties, establishing a maximum fine of P100,000 or imprisonment for up to five years for certain offenses. Additionally, licensees must now be afforded a hearing before their licenses can be suspended, revoked, or not renewed.
Discussions in Parliament emphasized the importance of responsible gambling, with Minister of Environment and Tourism Dr. Wynter Mmolotsi advocating for a rehabilitation center for individuals suffering from gambling-related harm. He proposed that the nation explore technological solutions capable of identifying harmful betting behavior, suggesting that systems monitoring gambling patterns could become essential tools in combating addiction.
Kgatleng Central MP Mpho Morolong underscored the notion that gambling should be viewed as entertainment rather than a means to achieve financial security.
As Botswana’s regulated betting market grows, a sharp increase in licensed operators has been noted since the Gambling Authority began its licensing process for bookmakers and totalisator operators in 2023. In January 2024, prior to the activation of licensed online operators, the Authority identified approximately 510,000 illegal online gambling instances monthly among Botswanans.
Sunbet Botswana launched its online sports-betting platform in February 2025, reportedly registering a 4,700% surge in sign-ups in its inaugural month, although the company did not disclose baseline figures for comparison. In March 2025, licensed operators accepted P150 million in wagers and paid out P135 million in winnings, generating P15 million in gross gambling revenue. Nonetheless, only an estimated 40% of around 550,000 active bettors were utilizing licensed local operators, leaving a considerable segment of demand unmet by regulated platforms.
By December 2025, Kemorwale indicated that gambling revenue had surpassed P700 million, with projections suggesting the industry will exceed P1 billion by the end of the 2026/27 financial year.
As the sector evolves, Kemorwale emphasized the need for upgraded regulatory oversight, including a central electronic monitoring system and enhanced enforcement capabilities. He remarked that the gambling market is quickly advancing, and failing to keep pace poses significant risks.
Illegal betting remains a critical focus for authorities, with reports from December 2025 indicating that the Gambling Authority and Financial Intelligence Agency were investigating multiple foreign-based betting websites allegedly using local proxies to operate in Botswana. Collaborative efforts between stakeholders, including communications and financial sectors, are ongoing to restrict access to illegal platforms and disrupt related payment channels.
With the National Assembly's approval achieved, the next steps involve obtaining presidential assent and moving forward with implementation. The Gambling Authority is tasked with transforming the proposed reforms into robust digital oversight and actionable measures against unlicensed operators, ensuring effective customer safeguards as Botswana's gambling market continues to expand.
