Oshikoto governor Sacky Kathindi urges the Ministry of Environment and Tourism to adopt a collaborative approach to regulating gaming, entertainment and lotteries.
He emphasises their potential to drive economic growth, create jobs and generate revenue while safeguarding communities.
Speaking at stakeholder consultations at Omuthiya yesterday, Kathindi described the regulation of these sectors as far more than a technical exercise.
“The regulation of gaming, entertainment and lotteries is not merely a technical or administrative matter. It is a critical component of our socio-economic framework. These sectors have the potential to contribute meaningfully to economic growth, job creation and revenue generation,” he said.
Kathindi stressed that effective regulation must balance opportunity with protection.
At the same time, these activities must be carefully managed to safeguard communities from potential social risks, including addiction, exploitation and other unintended consequences, he added.
“As custodians of regional development and community welfare, we stand ready to support initiatives that promote transparency, accountability and sustainable economic activities within our region,” the governor said.
The consultations focused on proposed amendments to regulations under the Gaming and Entertainment Control Act of 2018.
The ministry’s deputy director of gaming, Simeon Iingwapha, says the engagements aim to strengthen public understanding, gather input on the amendments and improve compliance across the sector.
“Our objectives are to increase public understanding of our respective roles, engage stakeholders on the proposed amendments, improve operations and ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks,” Iingwapha says.
He highlights the need to curb illegal operators, promote responsible gambling and address emerging trends affecting regulators, operators, players and the public, particularly minors.
“The main goal is to ensure the law addresses all developmental issues in the sector while supervising gaming establishments and protecting members of the public from the adverse effects of gaming. Responsible gambling remains at the heart of our approach,” he says.
The amendments seek to modernise Namibia’s gaming regulations to create a stable, transparent and responsible industry that contributes to national development while minimising social harm. – Nampa
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