The Casino Control Board of Botswana has published its annual report with gross gambling revenue (GGR) from the country’s nine casinos to 31 March 2006. Overall results show a decrease from the previous year, with lower disposable incomes for many players because of inflation caused by higher oil prices. Gross gaming revenue was P89 million (US$14.8 million) compared to over P92 million (over US$15 million) for the year to 31 March 2005.

The Grand Palm Casino in the Botswana capital Gabarone saw a slight fall in GGR (2%) from the corresponding period last year but took over as the leading revenue maker after the Gabarone Sun GGR decreased by 7%. The Grand Palm slot machine revenue was down 10% but table revenue rose 26%. MarangCasino in Francistown, Menateng Casino in Selebi Phikwe, and Teemane Casino in Jwaneng reported a decrease in gaming revenue. The Admiral Casinos in Francistown and Selebi-Phikwe and Kings Casino in Lobatse all increased their gaming revenue.

The new Letsatsi Casino in Palapye was granted a licence last year against previous government policy because a high proportion of the investment was from local investors, unlike most casinos that were opened with foreign investment. The new casino generated gaming revenue of P100,000 (US$16,626) to 31 March 2006 and paid P14,000 (US$2,327) to the government. The casinos pay levies and share casino entrance fees with the government. Last year the government made over P9 million (US$1.5 million) from gamblers at Botswana’s casinos.

The Attorney General is finalising the first draft of a comprehensive new gambling law – the Gaming and Gambling Bill – which will establish a Gaming and Gambling Authority. The Botswana gambling industry will then be controlled by the new body and a national lottery is expected to be initiated. The present Casino Control Board will focus on pushing forward the new legislation to bring about its rapid implementation. (E-09.14.06)

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