A Community-First Approach to Responsible Gambling and Health

As gambling continues to expand within Botswana’s social and economic landscape, the need for structured interventions that promote responsible participation, strengthen prevention mechanisms, and address gambling-related harm has become increasingly critical.

Recognising the importance of a proactive, multidisciplinary approach, Boitekanelo College and Gambling Authority Botswana have formalised a partnership aimed at strengthening community capacity through education, skills development, and targeted interventions.

The partnership, cemented through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at our Tlokweng Campus on 24th June 2026, introduces the Community Gambling Marshals Programme which combines health education, responsible gambling awareness, and community-based support systems to create meaningful social impact.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Boitekanelo College President and Founder, Dr Tiro Mampane, said the partnership reflects the importance of institutions working together to address complex social challenges through education, empowerment, and practical interventions.

He said responsible gambling requires a proactive approach, where communities are equipped with the information and support systems needed to make informed decisions and identify risks early.

As Dr Mampane, emphasised: "Healthcare is not only delivered in hospitals. It begins in communities. It begins with awareness. It begins with prevention. And it begins with people who are empowered to act."

The Community Gambling Marshals Programme will train 240 individuals across Botswana's four regions through a structured six-month online initiative. Drawing from public service, NGOs, parastatals, military, and media, these marshals will become community-based advocates-educating peers, supporting informed decision-making, and reducing gambling-related harm at the neighbourhood level.

Gambling Authority Botswana Acting CEO, Mr Moruntshi Kemorwale, said the partnership represents an important step in strengthening the country’s responsible gambling framework by shifting focus towards prevention, education, and community participation.

He said the Authority’s mandate extends beyond oversight of the gambling sector, requiring collaboration with institutions that can support public awareness, early identification of risks, and access to relevant community-based interventions.

“Addressing gambling-related harm requires proactive engagement beyond regulation, including partnerships that embed knowledge and support within communities,” Mr Kemorwale said.

He added that sustainable solutions require coordinated efforts between regulators, educators, and communities to ensure responsible gambling practices are understood and promoted at every level of society.

Through this collaboration, Boitekanelo College and Gambling Authority Botswana are combining education, professional expertise, and community engagement to strengthen prevention efforts and build healthier, more resilient communities across Botswana.