Legal Age Limit
Under the Botswana Gambling Act, participation in any form of gambling is strictly restricted to individuals aged 18 and older.
Youth Corner
Gambling is not just an adult issue — it affects people of all ages and walks of life. This dedicated space provides essential resources for young people navigating digital landscapes, parents striving to maintain safe boundaries, and educators building responsible curriculums.
Protecting the Next Generation
Know the Facts
Empowering young people with transparency, statistics, and objective realities of modern gaming and gambling.
The House Always Wins
All gambling platforms are designed with mathematical advantages. In the long run, operators are guaranteed to profit, not players.
It's Not an Income
Gambling should never be treated as a way to make money or resolve financial struggles. It is an expense, not an investment.
Warning Signs in Young People
Early detection is vital. If a friend or family member is experiencing harm, look out for these behavioural shifts.
- Unexplained mood swings, increased secrecy about online activities, or general irritability.
- Sudden drops in school grades, skipped classes, or lack of focus on extracurricular goals.
- Borrowing funds without clear reasons or missing valuables from home.
- Spending excessive hours isolated on gaming devices or betting sites, especially late at night.
- Losing interest in sports, hobbies, or socialising with friends.
For Parents & Guardians
For Parents & Guardians
Equipping guardians with practical methods to guide and safeguard children in a digital-first world.
Start the Conversation
Discuss the risks of gambling openly and without judgment. Ask your kids about their gaming habits, microtransactions, and loot boxes, explaining how these mechanics mimic real gambling. Lead by setting a healthy, responsible example.
Protect Your Children
Utilise built-in parental control software on consoles, phones, and PCs to block access to real-money wagering platforms. Monitor card statements regularly, limit microtransaction features, and report suspicious or underage gaming operators immediately.
For Educators
Resources, classroom materials, and curriculum support designed to foster responsible choices from an early age. We provide teachers, counsellors, and community workers with structured workshops, curriculum integrations, and visual materials designed to raise awareness of gambling risks in young people. Request physical resources for your school or register for a dynamic Gambling Authority youth outreach visit.
Request Educational Materials
Watch & Learn
Youth & Gambling — Know the Facts
Age-appropriate information for young people, parents, and educators about gambling risks and early intervention.
Watch the youth video →Gambling Age Limit in Botswana — 18+ Only
It is strictly illegal for individuals under the age of 18 to participate in any form of betting, lottery, or casino activity. Operators are legally mandated to execute strict identity and age verification checks. Failure to comply results in massive legal penalties.
Report a ConcernTalk to Someone
Whether you're worried about yourself or a friend, talking helps. Our support line is completely anonymous, confidential and free. You do not need to be in crisis.
Call 19777