The Gambling Authority of Botswana says it has achieved some success in its interventions against stigmatization in gambling and gaming; which if left unchecked could result in perpetuation of problem gambling in Botswana.
When making a presentation at the International Gaming Conference in Lagos, Nigeria this week, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Peter Kesitilwe said the Gambling Authority of Botswana combats stigmatisation through education and responsible gambling programs, mental health support, regulation and oversight as well as continued evaluation and adaptation.
“The Authority also funds research into the prevalence of gambling, its impact and risk factors. This research provides evidence-based insights that help shape impactful policies that help us fight misinformation and stereotypes by presenting facts and data,” said Kesitilwe.
By actively promoting diversity and inclusion, the Authority promotes mindset change and encourages people from all backgrounds, genders and age groups to participate in the industry value chains. Kesitilwe explained that stigmatisation is often a result of trauma occasioned by previous access to problem gambling and lack of knowledge regarding the difference between problem gambling and responsible gambling.
“Stigmatization can either be self-inflicted, public inflicted or structural. It often revolves around negative stereotypes, including notions of social isolation, addiction and unproductivity. Left unchecked, this problem can result in stagnation in the gambling Industry and progression of problem gambling,” said Kesitilwe.
In its interventions, Botswana has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign that aims to emphasise the differences and similarities between gaming and gambling; as well as educate the public about the benefits and potential risks of both activities. The Gambling Act of 2012 compels the Authority to set up a committee responsible for Excessive Gambling Prevention and Rehabilitation; which collaborates with industry stakeholders to develop responsible gaming and gambling programs.
“These initiatives provide information on advising players to set limits, recognise signs of addiction, and to seek help when needed. Such programs emphasize that responsible participation in either activity is a valid choice,” explained Kesitilwe.
The Gambling Authority provides full cover for problem gamblers and their family members to access mental health and counselling services. All gambling operations are subjected to strict regulations and oversight to ensure that they adhere to fair play, responsible gambling practices, and consumer protection laws. According to Kesitilwe, this also helps reduce the negative perception associated with gambling by fostering trust in the industry.
He further reiterated Botswana’s commitment to destigmatising gaming and gambling; saying government and relevant stakeholders continuously assess the effectiveness of their strategies and make adjustments as needed to address emerging challenges. The Conference was held under the theme: “Innovation and Disruptions: Core Strategies for Success” and hosted by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission of Nigeria. Across Africa, gaming and gambling are viewed as key sources of revenue that can rejuvenate the economy and act as potent tools for combating youth unemployment. With advance in technology, Africa is continuously exploring innovative solutions that will empower the gaming industry to flourish in an ever-evolving landscape.
When making a presentation at the International Gaming Conference in Lagos, Nigeria this week, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Peter Kesitilwe said the Gambling Authority of Botswana combats stigmatisation through education and responsible gambling programs, mental health support, regulation and oversight as well as continued evaluation and adaptation.
“The Authority also funds research into the prevalence of gambling, its impact and risk factors. This research provides evidence-based insights that help shape impactful policies that help us fight misinformation and stereotypes by presenting facts and data,” said Kesitilwe.
By actively promoting diversity and inclusion, the Authority promotes mindset change and encourages people from all backgrounds, genders and age groups to participate in the industry value chains. Kesitilwe explained that stigmatisation is often a result of trauma occasioned by previous access to problem gambling and lack of knowledge regarding the difference between problem gambling and responsible gambling.
“Stigmatization can either be self-inflicted, public inflicted or structural. It often revolves around negative stereotypes, including notions of social isolation, addiction and unproductivity. Left unchecked, this problem can result in stagnation in the gambling Industry and progression of problem gambling,” said Kesitilwe.
In its interventions, Botswana has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign that aims to emphasise the differences and similarities between gaming and gambling; as well as educate the public about the benefits and potential risks of both activities. The Gambling Act of 2012 compels the Authority to set up a committee responsible for Excessive Gambling Prevention and Rehabilitation; which collaborates with industry stakeholders to develop responsible gaming and gambling programs.
“These initiatives provide information on advising players to set limits, recognise signs of addiction, and to seek help when needed. Such programs emphasize that responsible participation in either activity is a valid choice,” explained Kesitilwe.
The Gambling Authority provides full cover for problem gamblers and their family members to access mental health and counselling services. All gambling operations are subjected to strict regulations and oversight to ensure that they adhere to fair play, responsible gambling practices, and consumer protection laws. According to Kesitilwe, this also helps reduce the negative perception associated with gambling by fostering trust in the industry.
He further reiterated Botswana’s commitment to destigmatising gaming and gambling; saying government and relevant stakeholders continuously assess the effectiveness of their strategies and make adjustments as needed to address emerging challenges. The Conference was held under the theme: “Innovation and Disruptions: Core Strategies for Success” and hosted by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission of Nigeria. Across Africa, gaming and gambling are viewed as key sources of revenue that can rejuvenate the economy and act as potent tools for combating youth unemployment. With advance in technology, Africa is continuously exploring innovative solutions that will empower the gaming industry to flourish in an ever-evolving landscape.
