The Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Indileni Daniel, says government is taking steps to better regulate gambling and sports betting in Namibia, acknowledging both the revenue potential and the risks associated with the growing industry.
Responding to questions in parliament from PDM MP Diederik Vries, Daniel highlighted the ministry’s efforts to tackle the rise in gambling platforms. Vries raised concern about the negative effects of gambling on low-income communities, saying it is "highly affecting the lower income people, further draining them of the little that they have and causing mental health issues."
Daniel explained that the government has begun enforcing the Gaming and Entertainment Control Act of 2018, which regulates sports betting and gambling while also protecting minors from participating.
“The Ministry has operationalized the law and appointed the Gambling Board of Namibia specifically for purposes of regulating and addressing illegal gambling activities (unlicensed gambling and sport betting operators) in the country,” Daniel said.
“The enforcement of this law took effect from 2021 and to date the Board has attended to over 280 applications from illegal operators. The Board is on a continuous drive to create awareness and ensure compliance.”
She warned that violations of the Act carry serious consequences.
“The penalty for any person allowing underage sport betting or contravening any provision of the Gaming and Entertainment Control Act is a fine of N$20,000 or imprisonment for a period not exceeding two years.”
Daniel further revealed that the ministry is developing a National Gaming Policy to guide the country in addressing gambling-related problems, including addiction and rehabilitation.
She also called on families and communities to play a role.
“The Act gives power for any person to report or register a family member or any person to whom the applicant is economically dependent or has a duty of care and whose behaviour shows signs of addictive or compulsive gambling,” she said.
“Communities are also encouraged to report any irresponsible gambling activities by operators and businesses in this sector.”