Namibia targets state lottery launch within two years

The Lotteries Board of Namibia says the country’s first state lottery is expected to roll out within the next one to two years.

“At present, the plans to launch the state lottery are at an advanced preparatory stage,” Lotteries Board of Namibia chief executive John Shimaneni says.

“The board is currently engaged in the procurement of transactional advisory services to assist with the appointment of a licensed lottery operator, in accordance with the Lotteries Act.”

The board is finalising legal, operational and procurement processes, with a phased rollout planned. Internal policies and regulatory systems are currently being developed to support the launch.

Shimaneni says the lottery will be used to fund key development areas such as youth empowerment, education, healthcare and community development, with proceeds managed through the State Lottery Trust Fund.

“To ensure transparency and accountability, a grant funding framework is being developed, along with independent audits and strict reporting requirements,” he says.

The board is also developing a responsible gaming strategy, which will include public awareness campaigns, age restrictions and support services for gambling-related harm. Licensed operators will be held to strict compliance and ethical standards.

“The proposed establishment of a state lottery represents a strategic opportunity for Namibia to mobilise domestic revenue for national development, while promoting job creation, innovation and inclusive growth,” Shimaneni says.

The project forms part of the sixth National Development Plan and is projected to generate over N$100 million in revenue by 2030.

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