BetXplosion launches in Bontleng: New era in responsible betting
Staff Writer | Wednesday May 7, 2025 06:00
The event, held under clear skies and marked with a celebratory spirit, began with an enthusiastic welcome from Bontleng councillor, Olebogeng Kemelo, who praised the initiative as a milestone for both the community and the broader gambling industry.
“It is my pleasure and honour to welcome you all to the grand opening of BetXplosion. Your presence demonstrates the strong support of our community and partners as we embark on this exciting new journey together,” said Kemelo.
“We are committed to delivering a samba-inspired betting environment a safe, enjoyable, and fair space where every bet feels like a celebration.”
Kemelo also highlighted BetXplosion’s commitment to Corporate Social Investment (CSI), pledging meaningful contributions to the livelihoods of Bontleng residents through targeted community initiatives.
Taking the podium for the keynote address, Marvin Torto, the chairperson of the Gambling Authority Board, praised BetXplosion’s entry into the market as a reflection of Botswana’s progress in building a modern, inclusive, and regulated gambling industry.
“This launch isn't just about starting a business it’s about reinforcing our shared commitment to a transparent and socially responsible gaming sector that empowers citizens while protecting the public interest,” said Torto. He revealed that BetXplosion was granted a 10-year Independent Bookmaker Operator Licence in August 2024 following a transparent licensing process.
It becomes one of six active operators under the Gambling Authority’s revamped regime that aims to foster competition, citizen participation, and innovation in the industry.
Torto commended BetXplosion for its strong alignment with national development goals, noting its plans to employ at least 25 Batswana — prioritising women, youth, and persons with disabilities and to source 90% of its procurement from citizen-owned businesses.
“This is citizen economic empowerment in action,” Torto said. “BetXplosion is 100% citizen-owned, and its operations directly support government’s call for sustainable job creation and local procurement.”
He further acknowledged BetXplosion’s embrace of technological advancement, especially its use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for real-time monitoring, anti-money laundering (AML) compliance, and player protection.
The chairman emphasised the authority’s zero-tolerance policy on underage gambling and stressed the need for operators to enforce strict access controls and verification systems. He also shared ongoing national research into gambling behaviour in Botswana, which will guide future policies to protect vulnerable groups and promote responsible gambling.
In keeping with its licence obligations, BetXplosion has committed to investing five percent of its Gross Gambling Revenue (GGR) into CSR programmes including youth empowerment, educational support, and health awareness campaigns. These efforts will be monitored by the authority to ensure community impact.
The event concluded with Torto officially declaring BetXplosion launched, encouraging the operator to lead by example in compliance, innovation, and community development.
“We welcome BetXplosion to the industry and urge you to be a model of excellence in responsible gambling, customer protection, and citizen empowerment,” he stated.
Guests were then invited to tour the newly established facility and interact with the BetXplosion team, who promised a vibrant, customer-first betting experience.
The launch of BetXplosion marks a pivotal moment in Botswana’s gambling landscape an intersection of regulation, opportunity, and community benefit. As the betting industry expands, all eyes will be on how BetXplosion lives up to its bold promises and regulatory obligations.