Namibia Targets Unlicensed Gambling as Part of Nationwide Regulatory Overhaul

Over 280 Unlicensed Operators Brought Under Review Since 2021

The Namibian government is stepping up regulatory enforcement in the gambling and sports betting sector, aiming to strike a balance between economic benefit and social protection. Speaking in parliament, Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism Indileni Daniel underscored the country’s commitment to eliminating unauthorised gambling and strengthening safeguards for at-risk communities.

The government’s approach includes direct action against unlicensed operators and a renewed emphasis on responsible gambling. Since regulatory enforcement began in 2021, the Gambling Board of Namibia has already processed more than 280 applications from operators previously outside the legal framework.

Namibia’s regulatory push is anchored in the Gaming and Entertainment Control Act of 2018, which grants broad oversight powers to the Gambling Board. The law prohibits gambling by minors and establishes penalties for non-compliance. According to Minister Daniel, operators who allow underage gambling or otherwise break the law face fines of up to N$20,000 (€963) or prison sentences of up to two years.

“The Ministry has operationalised the law and appointed the Gambling Board of Namibia specifically for the purposes of regulating and addressing illegal gambling activities,” she said.

Government Plans Policy to Address Gambling Harm

Daniel also confirmed that a National Gaming Policy is currently in development. The strategy will focus on tackling problem gambling, supporting addiction treatment programmes, and promoting public awareness.

The Ministry and the Gambling Board are working together to roll out education campaigns aimed at informing the public about legal obligations and the risks associated with irresponsible gambling. Families and communities have also been asked to play a more active role in identifying and reporting harmful or illicit gambling practices.

During the parliamentary session, MP Diederik Vries of the Popular Democratic Movement voiced concerns over the disproportionate effect of gambling on low-income individuals. He warned that gambling is depleting the limited financial resources of the poor.

In response, Daniel acknowledged the need to mitigate the wider consequences of gambling, particularly its financial and psychological toll. Her remarks highlighted the government’s intent to align regulatory efforts with broader social welfare priorities.