Exclusive – Leading the Charge: How Peter Emolemo is Leading the Gambling Authority Toward a Responsible Future

In this exclusive interview with iGaming AFRIKA Magazine, Emolemo Peter Kesitilwe, the newly appointed CEO of Botswana’s Gambling Authority, discusses his vision for the future of the gambling industry in Botswana. Drawing on his extensive experience in finance, local enterprise, and gambling regulation, Kesitilwe emphasises the importance of responsible gambling, innovation, and cultural understanding. He outlines strategic priorities and collaborative initiatives to create a balanced and thriving gambling ecosystem in Botswana and across Africa.

IGA: Congratulations on your appointment as CEO of Botswana’s Gambling Authority. Can you share some key experiences or milestones in your career that you believe have prepared you for this leadership role in the gaming industry?

Emolemo: Thank you. Throughout my career, I’ve gained valuable experience in various industries, including finance and local enterprise. My roles have often involved navigating complex regulatory environments and fostering innovation while ensuring compliance. These experiences have honed my strategic thinking, leadership skills, and understanding of regulatory frameworks, which I believe are crucial for guiding the Gambling Authority in the dynamic gaming industry landscape.

IGA: Your career spans various industries, from finance to local enterprise and gambling regulation. How has your cross-industry experience shaped your approach to leadership and problem-solving in your current role?

Emolemo: My cross-industry experience has instilled in me a versatile and agile leadership approach. I’ve learned to adapt quickly to new challenges, draw insights from diverse perspectives, and implement best practices from different sectors. This adaptability is invaluable in the fast-paced and evolving gambling industry, where safety, innovation and regulatory compliance are paramount. It enables me to approach problem-solving creatively, leveraging insights from multiple domains to drive effective solutions and foster safe and sustainable growth. Working under the direction of my Board, my adept problem-solving abilities played a pivotal role in pinpointing opportunities and motivating my team to swiftly execute the licensing plan approved by the Minister of Trade and Industry. This endeavour holds immense promise for generating employment opportunities and fostering economic empowerment among citizens.

IGA: As the new CEO, what is your overarching vision for the Gambling Authority, and how do you plan to steer the organisation in achieving its goals in the evolving gambling industry landscape?

Emolemo: My vision for the Gambling Authority is to establish it as a leading regulatory body renowned for its commitment to responsible gambling, innovation, and integrity. To achieve this, I plan to implement strategic initiatives to enhance the organisational capability, regulatory efficiency, and customer and operational excellence and safeguard consumer welfare through stakeholders’ communication and engagement. By fostering collaboration with stakeholders, leveraging technology, such as the Central Electronic Monitoring System, the Responsible Gambling Self Help Portal, and others for effective oversight, and staying abreast of industry trends, we will ensure that the Authority remains adaptive and responsive in guiding the industry toward safe and sustainable development and social responsibility to ensure a healthy, informed, responsible and autonomous player.

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IGA: What motivates you as CEO of the Gambling Authority, and how do you see your leadership positively impacting the gambling industry in Botswana?

Emolemo: As CEO, my motivation stems from the opportunity to effect positive change in the gambling industry by promoting responsible gaming practices, protecting consumers, and fostering a conducive regulatory environment for operators. I am committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and transparency, thereby enhancing trust in the industry and safeguarding its long-term sustainability. Through collaborative leadership and stakeholder engagement, I aim to cultivate a culture of innovation and accountability that drives continuous improvement and positive outcomes for all stakeholders.

IGA: During the recently concluded AGE Africa 2024 Summit, you stated that gaming operators must understand the factors shaping consumer preferences, such as culture, generational differences, locations, etc. when formulating their marketing strategies. Why is this so important, especially here in Africa?

Emolemo: Understanding the diverse socio-cultural landscape of Africa is paramount for gaming operators to tailor their marketing strategies effectively. Africa has rich cultural diversity and varying preferences and values across its regions and demographics. By recognising and respecting these nuances, operators can ensure that their offerings resonate with local communities, mitigate potential risks associated with cultural insensitivity, and build sustainable consumer relationships. Moreover, aligning marketing strategies with cultural sensitivities enhances social acceptance of the gambling industry. It fosters responsible gaming practices, ultimately contributing to its long-term success and positive societal impact.

IGA: Are there any innovative approaches or strategies operators in Africa should implement to enhance the regulatory environment for the gambling industry in Africa?

Emolemo: African operators can adopt innovative approaches to enhance the regulatory environment by embracing technology-driven solutions for compliance and consumer protection. Implementing robust age verification systems, self-exclusion tools, and real-time monitoring of gambling behaviour can help mitigate risks associated with problem gambling and ensure regulatory compliance. Furthermore, operators can leverage data analytics and artificial intelligence to detect problematic behavioural patterns and intervene proactively to provide support and assistance to affected individuals. The Gambling Authority’s Research function is re-focusing its energies on these fronts. Collaborating with regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders to develop industry-wide standards and best practices can also foster a culture of accountability and transparency, thereby enhancing the overall integrity of the African gambling industry. Gambling Authority Emolemo Peter

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IGA: Do you think most countries are doing enough to ensure that gamblers are protected, their habits are monitored, and those who need help are supported?

Emolemo: While progress has been made in promoting responsible gambling practices across Africa, there is still room for improvement in ensuring comprehensive protection for gamblers and effective monitoring of their habits. Many countries have established regulatory frameworks and support services to address problem gambling, but enforcement and accessibility to these resources vary widely. Greater collaboration among governments, regulatory authorities, operators, and non-profit organisations is needed to strengthen regulatory oversight, expand access to support services, and raise awareness about responsible gambling practices. By working together under regulatory bodies such as the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR), we can create a safer and more sustainable gambling environment that prioritises consumer welfare while balancing industry profitability.

IGA: What measures have you implemented in Botswana to ensure proper responsible gambling habits among players and that operators have the gamers’ interest at heart?

Emolemo: In Botswana, we have implemented various measures to promote responsible gambling and protect consumer welfare. These include 

• Collaboration with industry stakeholders, community leaders, and organisations to raise awareness about responsible gambling practices and provide education on the risks associated with excessive gambling.
• mandatory responsible gambling training for operators, 
• the establishment of self and third-party exclusion programs and 
• the provision of counselling and support services for individuals affected by problem gambling. 
• We also conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and monitor operator conduct to safeguard gamers’ interests. 

By prioritising consumer welfare and fostering a culture of responsible gaming, we aim to create a sustainable and socially responsible gambling industry in Botswana. Gambling Authority Emolemo Peter

IGA: Is the Gambling Authority collaborating with other regulators across Africa to foster an integrated approach to gaming regulation in Africa?

Emolemo: Yes, the Gambling Authority actively collaborates with other African regulators, mainly under the auspices of the Gaming Regulators Africa Forum (GRAF), to foster an integrated approach to gaming regulation. Through partnerships, information sharing, and collaborative initiatives, we work together to harmonise regulatory standards, share best practices, and address common challenges facing the gambling industry in Africa. By fostering cooperation and collaboration among regulatory bodies, such as the National Lotteries Commission and the National Gambling Board of South Africa, the National Lottery Regulatory Commission in Nigerian, the Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) and others, we can enhance regulatory efficiency, promote industry transparency, and ensure a level playing field for operators across the continent. Gambling Authority Emolemo Peter

IGA: Engaging with the community is vital. Can you share any upcoming initiatives or strategies to enhance community engagement, raise awareness, and address any concerns or misconceptions related to gambling in Botswana?

Emolemo: Certainly, we recognise the importance of community engagement in promoting responsible gambling and addressing concerns or misconceptions surrounding  gambling. To enhance community engagement, we have launched outreach programs, public awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives aimed at empowering individuals, such as the youth and others, with information about responsible gambling practices, the risks associated with excessive gambling, and available support services. Additionally, we collaborate with community organisations, local leaders, and stakeholders to address concerns, gather feedback, and foster dialogue about gambling-related issues. By working together with the community, we  create a safer, more informed gambling environment that prioritises consumer welfare and promotes responsible gaming habits.

IGA: The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR), in collaboration with the National Gambling Board of South Africa, is hosting an exclusive webinar for IAGR members titled “Magnifying responsible gambling: Betting on advertising to change the game.” Can you tell us why the two boards have come up with this member’s webinar and the goal for the session?

Emolemo: The webinar titled “Magnifying responsible gambling: Betting on advertising to change the game” reflects the shared commitment of the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) and the National Gambling Board of South Africa to address the critical issue of responsible gambling within the gaming industry. The goal of the session is to explore the impact of advertising on gambling behavior and to identify strategies for promoting responsible gambling practices through advertising initiatives. By convening regulatory authorities and industry stakeholders to discuss best practices, challenges, and opportunities in responsible gambling advertising, the webinar aims to drive meaningful change and raise awareness about the importance of responsible gambling promotion within the gaming industry.

IGA: Responsible gambling is a focal point for regulatory bodies. What initiatives or educational programs does the Gambling Authority have to promote responsible gambling habits among players?

Emolemo: The Gambling Authority is committed to promoting responsible gambling habits among players through various initiatives and educational programs. These include mandatory responsible gambling training for gaming operators and staff, the development of public awareness campaigns to educate players about the risks of gambling and how to gamble responsibly, and the establishment of support services such as a 24-hour helpline and counselling programs for individuals affected by problem gambling. Additionally, we collaborate with community organisations, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders to raise awareness about responsible gambling and provide resources for those in need of assistance. By prioritising responsible gambling promotion, we aim to promote a culture of responsible and safe gambling through a comprehensive, evidence-based programme that creates a secure and sustainable gambling environment that protects consumer welfare and minimises the negative impacts of gambling-related harm. Gambling Authority Emolemo Peter

IGA: Gaming trends evolve rapidly. How does the Gambling Authority plan to stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies, and what proactive measures are in place to address potential challenges?

Emolemo: To stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies in the gaming industry, the Gambling Authority employs a proactive approach to regulatory oversight and innovation. This includes monitoring global gaming trends, conducting regular assessments of regulatory frameworks, and engaging with industry stakeholders to identify emerging issues and potential challenges. Additionally, we invest in ongoing training and professional development for staff to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to changes in the regulatory landscape. By maintaining a flexible and forward-thinking approach to regulation, we can effectively address emerging trends and technologies while upholding the integrity of the gambling industry and protecting consumer welfare.

IGA: Does the Gambling Authority collaborate with gaming operators, industry stakeholders, and the public to ensure a balanced and thriving gambling ecosystem, and why is this important for the well-being of the gambling sector in an economy?

Emolemo: Yes, the Gambling Authority collaborates with gaming operators, industry stakeholders, and the public to ensure a balanced and thriving gambling ecosystem. Collaboration is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it fosters transparency and trust between regulators and industry participants, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the gambling sector. Secondly, it allows for the exchange of information and best practices, enabling regulators to make informed decisions and adapt to evolving challenges. Thirdly, it facilitates the development of policies and initiatives that prioritise consumer welfare while promoting a competitive and innovative marketplace. Ultimately, a balanced and thriving gambling ecosystem benefits the economy by generating revenue, creating jobs, and supporting community development initiatives, all while ensuring the responsible provision of gambling services.

IGA: During the IAGR 2023 Conference in Botswana, which brought together several industry stakeholders, there was a call for African regulators to work together to protect the gambling industry in Africa. Are there any measures in place to ensure this is achieved?

Emolemo: Following the call for collaboration at the IAGR 2023 Conference, the Gambling Authority has taken proactive steps to facilitate cooperation among African regulators to protect the African gambling industry. This includes hosting regional bi-lateral engagements with regulators from South Africa, Malawi, Zimbabwe, etc. We attended responsible gambling forums and other workshops on the sidelines of international meetings to promote dialogue and information sharing among regulatory bodies. Additionally, we continue to actively participate in the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) to leverage global expertise and resources in addressing everyday challenges facing the African gambling industry. By fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support, we can enhance regulatory effectiveness, promote responsible gambling practices, and safeguard the integrity of the gambling sector across Africa.

IGA: Based on your observations during your time in the industry, what lessons can Africa learn from developed gambling markets in the world, and what can we do to grow the industry in Africa?

Emolemo: Africa can learn several lessons from developed gambling markets to grow its industry sustainably. 

• Firstly, there’s a need for robust regulatory frameworks that prioritise consumer protection and responsible gambling practices while fostering innovation and competition. 
• Secondly, investing in infrastructure and technology is crucial to ensure the integrity and efficiency of gambling operations. 
• Thirdly, promoting tourism and entertainment alongside gambling can attract a diverse range of visitors and boost economic growth. 
• Additionally, providing support services for individuals affected by problem gambling is essential to mitigate social harms. 

By implementing these strategies and adapting them to the unique cultural and economic context of Africa, we can foster a thriving gambling industry that contributes positively to economic development while prioritizing consumer welfare and social responsibility. Gambling Authority Emolemo Peter