By Memory Chatonda, MANA
Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Environment, Symon Vuwa Kaunda has urged Premier Bet company to maintain its staff as gaming and lottery operators in the country are grappling with effects of Coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19).
He made the remarks Wednesday in Blantyre during a familiarization tour to Premier Bet Offices in Limbe.
Kaunda said he was aware that most gaming and lottery places are currently patronized by few people because of the ban that has been instituted in the wake of Covid-19 to among others observe social distance.
He said the development has affected revenue collection which the gaming operators collect on a monthly basis.
“Due to this, some gaming companies have sent their staff on leave while others are contemplating on retrenchment of their staff. I, therefore, urge Premier Bet, which is one of the biggest companies in the country employing hundreds of locals to maintain its staff during this period.
“Let me applaud Premier Bet for adding value to the economy of the country through fees and levies which the company remits to government through Malawi Gaming and Lottery Board,” the Minister said.
Premier Bet Chief Executive Officer, Milos Jovanovich assured government that no-one would be retrenched or dismissed despite the company decreasing number of services offered to its customers.
“We appreciate the mass drop in terms of sales. For instance, right now the only product we can offer is Lotto and some few games. But let me assure our staff that there will be no dismissals as long as the company is operating,” he said.
Premier Bet has over 2,000 employees both permanent and agents across the country.
