According to Gambling Authority interim CEO, Peter Emolemo Kesitilwe, during the visit, they learnt how the Gambling Commission regulates the industry in the UK. Equally, he said they have also learnt how the industry has changed over the years.
“What we learnt there can assist the Botswana Gambling Authority as we enter a new era of growth and expansion with the desire to implement industry best practices for the future. “Our meeting also provided a timely opportunity to catch up on preparations for the upcoming International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) event, which will be hosted by us here in Gaborone,” he said.
Kesitilwe added they are ready to host the conference, reiterating that they are looking forward to meeting other gambling regulators from across the world to share best practice, discuss common challenges and tackle illegal gambling in ways that make regulation work for all. Cabinet approved a request by the Gambling Authority of Botswana to host the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) conference, which will be held in Gaborone in October 2023. This was announced by Assistant Minister of Trade and Industry Beauty Manake on the sidelines of the IAGR conference in Melbourne, Australia.
Accepting the bid on behalf of government, Manake said hosting the conference will boost Botswana’s tourism sector and position the country as a global meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) centre. The IAGR is made up of gambling regulatory organisations from across the world; with a common mission of advancing the effectiveness and efficiency of gambling regulation. According to Kesitilwe, the IAGR provides opportunities for gambling regulators to network with industry peers through events, workshops, research and information sharing. “Members benefit from key advocacy committees, support, and exclusive access and discounts. The members of IAGR have established a working relationship, whose key objectives are to protect communities and citizens through adherence to gaming regulatory laws applicable to each member state,” he said.
