Voluntary
I want to exclude myself
Self-Exclusion
A voluntary request by an individual to restrict their own access to licensed gambling operators, digital accounts, and venues.
Start Self-ExclusionMotshameko O Phepa — Fair Play
National Exclusion Programme
Protective exclusion pathways are available where gambling is causing harm. An exclusion may be initiated by the individual, by an eligible third party, or by the Gambling Authority under the applicable framework.
Choose Your Pathway
Three Exclusion Pathways
Each pathway serves a different situation. Choose the one that applies to you.
Family Care
I am concerned about someone else
Third-Party Exclusion
A formal request initiated by an eligible third party (family, guardian, or dependant) where there are serious gambling-related harms.
Request Third-Party Exclusion
Regulatory
Exclusion initiated by the GA
Authority Exclusion
A protective framework applied directly by the Gambling Authority in circumstances provided for under Botswana legal provisions.
Learn About GA Exclusions
Exclusion Framework
How Exclusions Work
Each pathway follows its own process. Select a pathway to see the steps involved.
1 Step One
Register & Verify ID
Create a secure account on our portal and verify your national identification (Omang) to start the digital framework.
2 Step Two
Choose Your Option
Select full self-exclusion or a temporary cooling-off period and customize your specific operator preferences.
3 Step Three
Confirmation & Support
Receive legal confirmation of activation across all providers and gain immediate access to local counseling matches.
1 Step One
Submit Application
An eligible third party submits a formal request with supporting information about serious gambling-related harms.
2 Step Two
Independent Review
The Authority evaluates the evidence, notifies relevant parties, and runs a diagnostic safeguarding process.
3 Step Three
Decision & Protection
If approved, the exclusion is activated across licensed operators and counselling support pathways are offered.
1 Step One
Evidence Identified
Regulatory monitoring or reports indicate systematic exploitation, fraud, or extreme vulnerability linked to compliance risk.
2 Step Two
Authority Assessment
The Gambling Authority conducts an independent evaluation under Botswana legal provisions before protective action.
3 Step Three
Protective Action
Exclusion is applied across licensed operations and the individual is notified with support and counselling pathways.
Self-Exclusion Options
Self-Exclusion vs Cooling-Off Period
Two options are available under the self-exclusion pathway. Choose the level of restriction that suits your situation.
Self-Exclusion
Broader RestrictionFull restriction from all licensed gambling. The individual decides the duration and may request cancellation when they feel ready to return.
Start Self-ExclusionCooling-Off Period
Temporary BreakA temporary break to reassess your gambling activity. Duration is chosen by the individual and can be adjusted as needed.
Take a Break| Feature | Self-Exclusion | Cooling-Off |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Chosen by individual | Chosen by individual |
| Scope | All licensed operators nationwide | Selected operators only |
| Process | Formal application with ID verification | Simplified online request |
| Can it be cancelled? | Yes — when the individual feels ready | Yes — flexible and client-directed |
| Counselling Support | Mandatory counselling referral | Optional counselling available |
| Legal Basis | Responsible Gambling Act provisions | Operator-level voluntary implementation |
Not sure which is right for you? Learn More Talk to Support
Important Information
What You Should Know
Understanding these key legal and operational principles ensures the framework remains effective for your safety.
Confidentiality Guaranteed
All national exclusion records are strictly confidential and legally protected under Botswana data protection laws. No public records are created.
Comprehensive Coverage
Your activated exclusion covers all physical venues, registered online platforms, and mobile betting apps licensed by the Gambling Authority.
Duration & Effect
The duration of any exclusion is determined by the individual or the applicable process. All pathways restrict access to licensed gambling for the chosen period.
Review & Reinstatement
Once the exclusion term expires, your play access is not automatically returned. You must request a formal clinical review to verify ready-to-return status.
Counselling & Help
Free professional counselling, therapy circles, and legal budgeting advice are provided immediately upon your application for the programme.
Helpful Clarifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to help you navigate and understand the national exclusion framework.
General Program
What is the National Exclusion Programme?
The programme provides protective pathways for those experiencing gambling difficulties. It enforces legally binding access blocks across all Botswana licensed operations.
Does exclusion apply to online gambling?
Yes, our centralized system synchronizes directly with mobile sportsbooks, casinos, and virtual operators nationwide within 24 hours.
Self-Exclusion
Can I cancel my self-exclusion?
Yes. You may request cancellation of your self-exclusion when you feel that you are ready. The process involves a review to ensure you are making an informed decision.
What is self-exclusion?
Self-exclusion is a voluntary protective measure that lets you ask the Gambling Authority to block your access to licensed gambling venues and operators in Botswana for a chosen period.
How long does self-exclusion last?
You choose the duration when you apply. Options typically range from short-term cooling periods through longer protective terms, depending on the pathway and your circumstances.
Can I cancel my self-exclusion early?
Yes. Self-exclusion in Botswana is voluntary. You choose the duration when you apply, and you can cancel your exclusion at any time when you feel ready. To cancel, contact the Gambling Authority directly or visit your nearest office with valid identification.
What happens after I apply for self-exclusion?
Your application is reviewed and, once approved, your details are entered on the National Exclusion Register so licensed operators can refuse service and support your protective decision.
Will gambling operators know about my exclusion?
Licensed operators receive the information they need to enforce your exclusion at the door and at point of play. Your information is shared only for player-protection purposes.
Third-Party Exclusion
Who can apply for third-party exclusion?
Eligible third parties include immediate family members, registered guardians, or legal dependants whose livelihoods are severely compromised.
What is third-party exclusion?
Third-party exclusion allows an eligible family member or guardian to request protective exclusion for someone whose gambling is causing serious harm, subject to Gambling Authority review.
Does the person need to consent?
No, the Authority will launch an independent evaluation and diagnostic process to safeguard the individual, including mandatory notifications.
Can a third-party exclusion be overturned?
Third-party exclusions follow a formal review process. Changes or lifts require Gambling Authority assessment and cannot be reversed casually by the applicant alone.
GA-Initiated Exclusion
Under what circumstances does the GA act?
The Gambling Authority acts when direct evidence points to systematic exploitation, legal fraud, or extreme mental vulnerability linked to regulatory compliance failures.
More Questions
How does the National Exclusion Register work?
The National Exclusion Register is the authoritative list used by licensed operators to identify excluded persons and refuse gambling access in line with Motshameko O Phepa player-protection rules.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes. Exclusion records are treated as sensitive personal data and are shared only with authorised operators and officials for enforcement and support purposes under Botswana data-protection law.
Where can I get more help?
Call the national helpline, visit the Contact Us page, take the self-assessment, or browse the Support directory for free counselling options near you.
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