As a new player in the African gaming landscape, Botswana demonstrated its growing influence by hosting the prestigious 11th Annual BiG Africa Summit, held from February 17 to 20, 2025, at The Grand Palm Hotel Casino Convention Resort in Gaborone. The four-day event brought together senior decision-makers, industry leaders, regulators, and stakeholders to discuss the latest developments and future prospects in the iGaming sector.
A Major Leap for Botswana’s Gambling AuthorityThe Botswana Gambling Authority (GA), which served as both host and regulator, showcased its commitment to expanding the sector by issuing 16 new gaming licences in 2024. This significant regulatory move is expected to stimulate growth in the industry, attracting both local and international investors. The summit also provided a crucial platform for industry leaders, including the GA, to refine regulatory frameworks that address present challenges while anticipating future trends.
Panel Discussions and Research ContributionsOne of the key highlights of the summit was the panel discussions, which were enriched by the participation of eager research students. Their insightful questions underscored a growing academic interest in the industry and demonstrated the potential for research to shape Botswana’s gambling sector. This enthusiasm aligns with the GA’s vision of positioning the industry as a major economic benefactor through data-driven strategies. As part of this initiative, the GA awarded 11 scholarships to students, not only to enhance their performance but also as a way of giving back to the community. A report from Business Weekly emphasised that research conducted by GA scholarship recipients will play a crucial role in enhancing the gambling sector’s contribution to Botswana’s economy, aligning with national diversification efforts. The engagement of scholars in these discussions showcased the importance of academia in fostering responsible industry growth.
Addressing the Global
Concern of Responsible GamblingWhile the gambling industry presents a lucrative economic opportunity, the summit also tackled the global issue of problem gambling, which poses serious public health risks. With the rapid expansion of mobile and online gambling, the number of affected individuals worldwide has reached an alarming 450 million, with at least 80 million suffering severe gambling-related consequences.
In Botswana, gambling addiction is notably prevalent amongst the youth and working-age population, necessitating urgent prevention and intervention strategies. Panelists debated ways to curb irresponsible gambling while ensuring industry sustainability, emphasising that consumer protection is crucial for long-term growth. The industry must strike a balance—if it seeks to thrive, it must safeguard players from harm to retain customer trust and industry stability.
Forging Strategic
Partnerships and Future ActionsThe event provided extensive networking opportunities, enabling C-level executives, regulators, and industry experts to collaborate on shaping Africa’s iGaming future. One participant stressed the need for action-oriented discussions, suggesting that by the next summit, responsible authorities should present concrete plans and progress updates on agreed strategies.
Looking AheadThe BiG Africa Summit 2025 proved to be a pivotal gathering for the gambling industry, setting the stage for strategic growth, responsible regulation, and international collaboration. As Botswana solidifies its place in the African gambling market, stakeholders remain optimistic about the sector’s ability to drive economic diversification and elevate Botswana’s position as a leader in the iGaming industry. With insightful discussions and forward-thinking strategies, the summit reaffirmed the potential of gambling as a key economic driver—one that, if managed responsibly, could propel Botswana and Africa toward greater economic heights.
