Experienced regulator takes permanent leadership role as the Authority focuses on responsible gaming, financial sustainability, and stronger industry oversight
The Botswana Gambling Authority has officially appointed Moruntshi Kemorwale as its new substantive Chief Executive Officer, bringing an experienced industry leader into the top position after nearly a year of serving in an acting capacity. His appointment marks a new phase for the country’s gambling regulator as it continues efforts to strengthen oversight, promote responsible gaming, and modernize Botswana’s regulated gambling sector.
The appointment was confirmed by the Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Hon. Tiroeaone Ntsima, following Kemorwale’s successful period as acting CEO. Having been part of the Gambling Authority since its establishment in 2016, Kemorwale brings extensive institutional knowledge and a deep understanding of Botswana’s gaming regulatory environment.
His promotion reflects confidence in his leadership abilities and his ability to guide the organization through the opportunities and challenges facing the country’s gambling industry.
Long Experience Within the Gambling Authority
Kemorwale has built a strong career within the Gambling Authority, holding several senior positions before assuming the CEO role. During his time with the organization, he has contributed to regulatory development, corporate governance, stakeholder engagement, and responsible gambling initiatives.
Before becoming CEO, he served as Chief of Staff, where he played a key role in coordinating strategic planning, monitoring organizational performance, and supporting leadership decision-making.
He also previously served as Director of Responsible Gambling and Corporate Affairs, overseeing initiatives focused on consumer protection, public awareness, and promoting safer gambling practices among players and operators.
His years of experience within the institution provide him with a strong foundation to lead the Authority’s future development.
Focus on Responsible Gambling and Regulatory Excellence
One of Kemorwale’s key priorities as CEO will be strengthening Botswana’s gambling regulatory framework while ensuring that operators comply with established standards.
The Gambling Authority plays a critical role in licensing, monitoring, and supervising gambling activities across Botswana. As the industry continues to evolve through technological innovation and digital gaming growth, effective regulation has become increasingly important.
Under Kemorwale’s leadership, the Authority is expected to continue enhancing responsible gambling programmes, improving consumer protection measures, and strengthening compliance systems.
The organization has also been working to improve oversight related to anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) requirements, ensuring that Botswana’s gambling sector aligns with international regulatory expectations.
Driving Financial Sustainability
Another important area of focus for Kemorwale will be improving the Gambling Authority’s financial sustainability.
During his tenure as acting CEO, he highlighted the importance of reducing reliance on government funding by increasing internally generated revenue through licensing activities, monitoring services, and regulatory fees.
Creating a financially sustainable regulator is considered essential for ensuring that the Authority has the resources needed to effectively supervise the gambling sector and implement strategic initiatives.
Kemorwale’s leadership approach is expected to prioritize operational efficiency, responsible financial management, and long-term institutional growth.
Preparing for Future Industry Development
Botswana’s gambling industry continues to experience transformation, with regulators and operators adapting to new technologies, changing consumer behaviour, and emerging market opportunities.
The Gambling Authority has been preparing for major developments, including the rollout of Botswana’s National Lottery, which is expected to expand the country’s regulated gaming landscape.
Kemorwale’s background in governance, leadership, and regulatory affairs positions him to oversee these developments while ensuring that growth occurs in a controlled and responsible manner.
Leadership Experience Beyond Gaming
Before joining the Gambling Authority, Kemorwale gained professional experience across several sectors, including mining, media, public administration, and law enforcement.
His previous roles involved stakeholder management, corporate communication, sustainability initiatives, and institutional development. He also worked with Botswana’s Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC) and gained public recognition as a presenter on Botswana Television’s Matlho-A-Phage programme.
Academically, Kemorwale holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a Postgraduate Diploma in Management, and additional professional qualifications related to leadership and responsible gambling. He is also pursuing further academic studies in business leadership.
Strengthening Botswana’s Gambling Future
The Chairperson of the Gambling Authority Board, Plato Gaoboi, welcomed Kemorwale’s appointment, expressing confidence in his experience and ability to advance the organization’s strategic goals.
As the new CEO, Kemorwale will be responsible for guiding the Authority through a period of continued growth and transformation. His leadership will focus on maintaining strong regulatory standards, supporting responsible gambling practices, and building greater confidence among industry stakeholders.
With his extensive experience within the organization and broader leadership background, Moruntshi Kemorwale’s appointment represents continuity while providing new direction for Botswana’s gambling regulatory future.
