The Gaming Association of Botswana and Lifeline Botswana, part of a counselling service network in Southern Africa, last week launched the Responsible Gaming Botswana Programme at the Grand Palm Resort in Gaborone. All casinos in the country will be required to market and promote a toll-free support line to Lifeline Botswana. The initiative was driven by the licensed casino operators in a bid to create a responsible gaming environment.

Chairman of the Gaming Association Bruce Page-Wood said, "The Responsible Gaming Botswana Programme provides players who gamble beyond their means with appropriate channels to seek support. Professional, qualified counsellors from Lifeline Botswana are available to give advice and support. We fully support and are committed to ensuring that all our players have access to the support it provides."

Botswana’s Draft Gaming and Gambling Bill seeks to protect society and control legalised gambling in an era when the activity has become more socially acceptable and more easily accessible. Leta Mosienyane, Chairman of the Botswana Casino Control Board, admits that the percentage of adults with gambling problems is likely to increase as more people visit the casinos, play online or wager by other means.

The Lifeline Botswana organisation provides free counselling services to individuals and their families from all walks of life and for all types of problems at home or in the workplace. Lifeline also trains lay counsellors and has over 300 volunteers. Page-Wood commented, "Gaming is a fun pastime and a pleasurable social activity allowing players to relax. It is important to always stay in control and not to play beyond your means.” (E-06.19.09)

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