Gambling Board Declares N$15 Million in Dividends To Government

The Gambling Board of Namibia has declared N$15 million in dividends to the government for the 2025/2026 financial year, with its Chairperson, Ben Shikongo, urging other parastatals to contribute to government finances where they are able.

Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Indileni Daniel and Minister of Finance, Ericah Shafudah witnessed the handover in Windhoek on Wednesday.

Speaking to Business Pulse 360°, Shikongo called on government-linked institutions to share their profits with the State, arguing that the contributions could help the government address public needs.

“Whatever we are generating, whatever we are profiting, definitely we should share with the government,” he said.

Shikongo urged parastatals to meet the government halfway through annual contributions, where their financial positions allow.

He noted that the government has to prioritise different needs, including healthcare and projects aimed at supporting the public, and argued that additional revenue could help it respond to those demands.

He acknowledged that some institutions might not be able to pay dividends if they had operated at a loss. In such cases, he said, they should be transparent about their financial position rather than leave the public expecting a contribution they could not make.

Shikongo also raised concerns about unemployment and pressure on government resources, saying institutions that generate profits should consider how they can contribute towards supporting the country.

The N$15 million dividend was paid to the government in its capacity as a shareholder.

The Board’s total profit for the 2025/2026 financial year and its previous dividend payment were not disclosed.

The Gambling Board of Namibia carries out the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism’s delegated responsibility to regulate, license and monitor the gambling industry in Namibia.