Namibia Takes Steps to Regulate and Combat Rising Gambling and Sports Betting Issues
In recent days, Namibia has experienced a significant increase in sports betting and gambling platforms, raising concerns about their impact on society, particularly on lower-income populations. Addressing these concerns, the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Indileni, outlined the government’s efforts to regulate and mitigate the negative effects of gambling during a parliamentary session.
Speaking in parliament, Minister Indileni responded to questions posed by Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) MP Diederik Vries regarding the proliferation of gambling activities in the country. “Gambling and betting is highly affecting the lower income people further draining them of the little that they have and causing mental health issues,” she stated. Highlighting the measures already in place, the Minister explained, “The ministry has operationalized the law and appointed the Gambling Board of Namibia especially for the purpose of regulating and addressing illegal gambling activities like unlicensed gambling and sport betting operation in the country.”
She further noted that while enforcement is ongoing, the legal framework is firmly established. “Yes we’re not saying everything is running as it is but there is a law to that. The enforcement of this law took effect in 2021 and to date the board attended to over 280 applications from illegal operators. The board is on a continuous drive to create awareness and ensure compliance.”
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MP Indileni pointed out that sports betting and gambling fall under the regulation of the Gaming and Entertainment Control Act 2018, which aims to protect consumers and restrict minors from engaging in gambling activities. “The penalty for any person caught allowing an underage sport betting or contravening any provision of gaming and entertainment control act, there is a fine of 20,000 or imprisonment or imprisonment or for a period of not exceeding 2 years,” she emphasized.
Recognizing the need for comprehensive strategies, the government is also in the process of developing a national gaming policy. This policy aims to establish clear guidelines for addressing gambling-related issues, including addiction and rehabilitation. Minister Indileni stressed the importance of community involvement, stating, “An act fair that gives power for any person to report or register a family member, a friend or any person to whom the applicant is economically dependent as has already indicated and has duty of care and whose behavior manifest symptoms of addiction or compulsive gambling.”
She urged communities to actively participate in combating irresponsible gambling, encouraging the reporting of unethical activities by operators and businesses within the sector. “Communities are also encouraged to report any irresponsible gambling activities by operators and businesses in the sector,” he said.
