Kenya marks Sh20 least betting amount in fight against gambling

AdminLeave a commentNews, , ,

The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has proposed the minimum stake for online gaming and those using gambling machines.
Currently, gamblers stake less than Sh5, which has made betting cheap and fuelled rapid growth among the young and vulnerable persons hoping to win millions in prize money.

The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has proposed the minimum stake for online gaming and those using gambling machines.
Currently, gamblers stake less than Sh5, which has made betting cheap and fuelled rapid growth among the young and vulnerable persons hoping to win millions in prize money.

“A player in an online gambling activity shall not bet an amount of less than twenty shillings in a competition,” BCLB says in the draft

Gambling Control Bill, 2023.

“The minimum amount set above shall be inclusive of such a saving component for the player as shall be determined by the Authority in consultation with the Cabinet Secretary.”
Betting firms and gambling machine operators who flout this requirement will be fined Sh5 million or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six years.
A few firms, including Betika and Milestone Gaming (trading as SportPesa), have fixed the minimum betting amount at Sh50 to make gambling relatively expensive for the unemployed and youth.
Gambling has grown over the years from a pastime to an activity for Kenyans seeking cash to pay daily bills.
A Central Bank of Kenya survey conducted in 2021 showed that 13.9 percent of respondents were actively betting, with those who perceive the activity as a source of income at 11.2 percent.
The survey also found that the average amount used for betting per week was Sh939 even as the government warned that more Kenyans apply for mobile loans to finance their gaming addiction.

Another research conducted across Africa in 2021 revealed that Kenyan youth topped their counterparts on the continent in betting, with over 80 percent of respondents saying they were taking part in the activity.
Experts reckon that the spike in betting addiction is being fuelled by the high rate of unemployment as youth turn to gambling in the hope of making quick cash.
Gambling in Kenya generally takes place online, allowing punters to stake and withdraw winnings on their phones without needing a bank account.
The craze has also led to the establishment of betting shops where scores of Kenyans go to bet on live sports events, mostly during the weekends.

BCLB’s push for minimum betting stakes is the latest weapon that the State has turned to as the betting craze grows unabated, defying heavy taxation on punters and gaming firms.
The State increased the excise tax on betting stakes to 12.5 percent from July 1 this year, adding to the 20 percent withholding tax that punters forfeit to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for every winning stake.

Punters placed a record Sh88.5 billion through online bets in the full year to June 2023, handing the KRA Sh6.64 billion in excise taxes in the period from the Sh5.1 billion raised a year earlier, highlighting the betting craze that has defied higher taxation.
Betting firms have also been on the increase, with 10 new firms joining the market from July this year, bringing the number of licensed operators to 71 despite the heavy taxes imposed on the firms.

The firms are currently taxed on the gross gaming revenue turnover minus winnings paid out – at a rate of 15 percent.

They also pay corporate tax on profits at a rate of 30 percent and income tax at the standard rate of 16 percent.
BCLB has also proposed a gambling tax to be charged at the rate of 15 percent of a betting firm’s gross gaming revenue and a further one percent monthly levy on the same revenue.

Source: Nation Africa (John Mutua)

A crowd at the SBC summit Barcelona 2021

SBC SUMMIT BARCELONA – The Global Betting and iGaming Show

AdminLeave a commentNews, , , ,
The SBC Summit Barcelona conference and exhibition is where global leaders in sports betting and iGaming assemble to discuss the future of the industry, exchange knowledge, and build powerful connections. The event already established itself as a must-attend event in the calendar of sports betting and iGaming industry professionals by offering delegates the unique opportunity to reach and network with thousands of attendees from all across the globe and covering all industry verticals.
In 2023, from the 19th to the 21st of September, SBC Summit Barcelona returns to Fira de Barcelona Montjuïc for its third edition in what promises to be the biggest-ever SBC event. Join the industry in Barcelona to explore the most-anticipated product releases across a 38,000 m² exhibition floor that features 350+ world-class operators, suppliers, affiliates, media, and start-ups.

KEY SPEAKERS

With 15,000 industry professionals expected to attend, 4500 of which are operators, 1500 Affiliates, over 350 exhibitors with 450 top-level speakers that include key C-level professionals in the global gambling industry e.g. Mathew Ball – Pioneering Tech Authority, Venture capitalist & Best-selling Author of the Metaverse, Daniel Taylor – CEO Flutter international, Jesper Svensson – CEO Operations Betsson Group, Karsen Fogh – CEO Danske Spil, Gustaf Hagman – CEO & Founder LeoVegas Group, Paris Smith – Advisor Pinnacle Sports, James Curwen – CEO Online OPAP, Fabio Schiavolin – CEO SNAITech, Fredrik Wastenson – CEO Svenska Spel Sports & Casino, Maarja Part – CEO YOLO Group,  Alexander Martin – CEO SKS365, Sam Sadi – CEO Livescore Group among others as the list is long and HOT!

ARRANGEMENT

The floor space has been split into 5 separate zones to make it easier for the delegates to navigate the exhibition and identify the companies that are relevant to their business. The Sports Betting, Casino & iGaming, Payments and Compliance, Affiliate, Marketing and Media and Emerging Tech, Blockchain, and Metaverse will each have their own conference stage, exhibition floor, and networking areas.

The busy conference schedule will boast an unrivaled speaker line-up of 450 industry professionals delivering 80 hours of content across the 8 conference rooms, covering sports betting, casino, iGaming, payments, emerging technologies, innovation, digital marketing, and safer gambling. Additionally, our Full Event Passes give you unrivaled networking opportunities at the hottest spots in Barcelona, where you can connect with influential decision-makers from some of the biggest names in the industry.

SPORTS BETTING ZONE

The Sports Betting Zone at SBC Summit Barcelona is the place to discover everything that is happening in the global sports betting industry. It represents the year’s best opportunity for you to meet influential senior executives and specialists from major international operators, exchange ideas about the latest industry developments, and view the next generation of sportsbook products from innovative suppliers.

Dive into key issues such as the evolving relationship between operators and media companies, the future of esports betting, sports integrity, exclusivity in data rights, and sportsbook product innovation during a series of panels on the Sports Betting Stage.

You can also visit the Sports Betting Zone’s exhibition, which is the place to learn about the new products and services that could give your business a competitive advantage.

The representatives from the hundreds of operators participating in the Sports Betting Zone include C-Level executives and other key decision-makers, such as Sportsbook Directors, Product Directors, and Trading Directors.

And we shall be wrapping it all up in style at “The Magnificent SBC Awards” which will be held at Caves Codorniu, Barcelona, Spain. See key highlights below and click on this link to get more info: https://sbcevents.com/sbc-awards/

Venue address:

Caves Codorniu

Avda. Jaume Codorniu, s/n, 08770, Barcelona, Spain

ON THE EVENING

The SBC Awards 2023 begins at 19:00 when coaches depart from the Fira towards Caves Codorniu, scheduled to arrive at 19:40.As well as the awards ceremony the evening also includes unlimited complimentary beer, wine, and spirits all night, as well as entertainment and DJ.

This year the awards are set to be an evening to remember for the Sports Betting Community so miss at your own risk, Be in Barcelona or be nowhere  “Salud”

Click this link to Register and attend: https://sbcevents.com/sbc-summit-barcelona/

The Betting Industry in Africa: Navigating Economic Recessions and Staying Profitable

AdminLeave a commentNews, , ,

Africa stands out as a key market in betting and gambling for the future, with its online and offline sectors expected to reach $2 bn by 2023.

The betting sector in Africa has consistently held a prominent role within the country’s financial landscape. Faced with worldwide economic changes and contemporary business hurdles, bookmakers have been compelled to evolve and introduce novel strategies to sustain their profitability. One of them, digitalization, found itself in the widespread use of mobile betting software from trusted companies, such as the Betway app. This article delves into how the betting industry in Africa has managed to navigate economic recessions and what strategies they’ve employed to stay profitable in the current state of business.

STATE OF THE BETTING INDUSTRY IN AFRICA IN 2023

THE CURRENT LANDSCAPE

The online gambling sector has seen substantial growth globally, and Africa is no exception. In 2023, Africa’s online sports betting sector is anticipated to hit a valuation of US$350.50m, according to Statista. Meanwhile, by the end of 2022, the online portion of the broader African gambling market had an estimated value of approximately $2.2bn. Projections indicate a notable increase in this value as we approach the end of 2023.

KEY DRIVERS OF GROWTH

Several factors are driving the growth of the betting industry in Africa:

  • Rising Middle Class: Poverty levels are gradually declining, leading to an increase in the middle class with disposable income for betting and gambling.
  • Digital Transition: The surge in smartphone usage and internet access has made online gambling more accessible. By 2022, about 64% of the African population owns smartphones, and this figure is predicted to climb to 70% by 2025, according to the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSMA). Additionally, nearly half of these smartphone users consistently access the internet.
  • Online Payment Solutions: The development of online payment solutions that bypass traditional banking systems has facilitated quick and low-cost online payments, further boosting the industry.

MAJOR PLAYERS IN THE AFRICAN MARKET

Africa stands out as a key market in betting and gambling for the future, with its online and offline sectors expected to reach $2 bn by 2023. This is attributed to its high GDP, which enhances people’s purchasing power. Remarkably, South Africa contributes 50% of the entire gambling revenue in Africa, with a significant portion coming from the sports betting industry, making up approximately 24%. Research shows that nearly half of South Africans engage in sports betting, a figure that is anticipated to grow twofold within the coming five years.

NAVIGATING ECONOMIC RECESSIONS

DIVERSIFICATION IN THE BETTING INDUSTRY

Diversification is a strategy that broadens the array of offerings to mitigate risks and capture a diverse audience. For bookmakers, this means venturing beyond conventional betting methods to ensure stability and growth.

BENEFITS OF DIVERSIFICATION

  • Risk Reduction: By not relying on a single revenue stream, bookmakers can cushion themselves against unforeseen market downturns in any particular segment.
  • Access to New Markets: Diversifying offerings can open doors to new customer segments that were previously untapped.
  • Increased Revenue: Multiple betting avenues mean multiple revenue streams, leading to overall business growth.

EXAMPLES OF DIVERSIFICATION IN BETTING

  • On-the-Go Betting Platforms: Dedicated apps offer the convenience of placing bets, tracking results, and managing accounts anytime, anywhere.
  • Immersive Experiences with AR and VR: These technologies offer a lifelike betting ambiance, enriching user experience.
  • Online Casinos: Incorporating casino games like slots, poker, and roulette provides an alternative entertainment source for bettors.

EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY IN THE BETTING INDUSTRY

THE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

The integration of technology in betting is not just a trend but a necessity. Modern bettors demand seamless experiences, instant results, and interactive betting options.

BENEFITS OF EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY

  • Enhanced User Experience: Technology allows for live streaming, instant updates, and interactive betting, enhancing the overall user experience.
  • Operational Efficiency: Automated systems reduce operational costs and human errors.
  • Data Analytics: Technology provides valuable insights into user behavior, preferences, and betting patterns, enabling bookmakers to tailor their offerings.

EXAMPLES OF TECHNOLOGICAL INTEGRATION

  •  Mobile Betting Apps: These apps allow users to place bets, check results, and withdraw winnings on the go.
  • Augmented and Virtual Reality: AR and VR can provide immersive betting experiences, making users feel like they’re in a real casino or sports event.
  • Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies: These technologies ensure secure, transparent, and fast transactions.

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE IN THE BETTING INDUSTRY

IMPORTANCE OF REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

Regulatory frameworks are designed to ensure ethical practices, safeguard consumers, and uphold the betting industry’s reputation. Adherence is crucial for credibility and trust.

BENEFITS OF REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

  • Trust Building: Customers are more likely to bet with bookmakers they perceive as trustworthy and compliant with local laws.
  • Avoidance of Legal Repercussions: Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, license revocations, and legal actions.
  • Sustainable Business Growth: A compliant business is a sustainable one, ensuring long-term growth and profitability.

KEY ASPECTS OF REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

  • Licensing: Obtaining and renewing licenses from relevant authorities is fundamental.
  • Fair Play and Transparency: Ensuring games and betting options are not rigged and providing transparent terms and conditions.
  • Responsible Gambling: Implementing measures to prevent underage gambling, setting betting limits, and promoting safe gambling practices.

STAYING PROFITABLE IN THE MODERN LEGAL BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT

CUSTOMER-CENTRIC APPROACHES

Modern bookmakers prioritize customer experience by offering personalized betting options, loyalty programs, and efficient customer service.

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING INITIATIVES

Promoting responsible gambling not only builds trust but also ensures long-term customer engagement. Bookmakers have set betting limits, self-exclusion options, and awareness campaigns to promote safe gambling practices.

MARKET RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS

Understanding market trends, customer preferences, and emerging technologies is crucial. Bookmakers invest in research and analysis to stay ahead of the curve and offer relevant betting options.

CONCLUSION

The betting industry in Africa, like many sectors, faces its share of challenges. However, by adapting to the changing economic landscape, embracing technology, and prioritizing customer experience, bookmakers have managed to navigate economic recessions and remain profitable. As the industry continues to evolve, those who stay agile and responsive to market needs will undoubtedly thrive.

Source: The SouthAfrican.com

iTHUBA Awarded Uganda National Lottery

AdminLeave a commentNews, ,

The Ugandan government has issued a 10-year licence to Ithuba Uganda, a subsidiary of South African firm Ithuba, to run a national lottery in what Finance Minister Matia Kasaija said was a move to raise public funds and support social causes. Kasaija said the signing of the partnership was a sign of ‘Ubuntu’ and would go a long way in strengthening relations between Uganda and South Africa. The duration of the National Lottery agreed is for a period of 10 years.

The National Lottery’s mission is to boost government revenue through a portion of gross sales, including gaming tax (approx. Shs 87 billion), and non-tax revenue (approx. Shs 60 billion) for good causes annually.

The generated revenue holds a noble purpose—it will empower initiatives in vital sectors: public infrastructure, education, health, and sports development. Together, we’re making a positive impact.

The National Lottery is also an agent of change. There is an anticipated creation of 1700 direct jobs for Ugandan Nationals, with the ripple effect extending to numerous indirect employment opportunities.

The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board is mandated and will be responsible for the supervision of the activities and operations of the National Lottery and its operator.

5G network Launch in Senegal and other African countries a great boost for the igaming industry

AdminLeave a commentNews, , ,

Senegal’s telecommunications regulator (L’Autorite de Regulation des Telecommunications et des Postes, or ARTP) issued a call for applications for 5G licenses earlier this month. The call came as the regulator was keeping its promise to launch commercial ultra-broadband in the country in 2023, furthermore, requesting that interested investors must submit their applications by July 14, 2023.

In May 2023, the regulator announced that it would allocate 5G licenses to telecom operators by the end of July.

“Only companies incorporated under local law can apply and they should also have a valid license authorizing them to establish and operate a network open to the public and to provide electronic communications services as of the application submission date,” the regulator said in a statement.

The country’s 5G launch is in line with the country’s drive to strengthen high-speed connectivity and digital use in the country. This is also linked to the Digital Economy Acceleration Project (PAEN), which the World Bank is funding for US$150 million.

Senegal’s telecommunications regulator said interested parties have until July 14, 2023, to apply for a 5G license. That financing agreement was signed by Senegal’s Minister of Finance and Budget, Mamadou Moustapha Ba, and the Keiko Miwa World Bank’s Country Director for Cabo Verde, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, and Senegal.

Senegal’s 5G plans

Senegalese telecom operators have been planning for 5G since 2020 with local operator Sonatel testing the service in November 2020 and running a second 5G trial in December 2021.

Free Senegal also launched an experimental phase of the fifth-generation technology in June 2022.

Furthermore, in July 2022, Sonatel, along with its parent company Orange, opened a 5G Lab in the capital, Dakar. However, ARTP instructed Sonatel and Free to halt their network trials and submit a progress report to the regulator in March 2023.

Africa’s 5G progression

The announcement by the Senegalese regulator comes at a time when many other countries have also been announcing their 5G plans.

A few weeks ago, the Uganda Communication Commission (UCC) invited applicants for its planned sale of the 5G spectrum, and the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) also announced it will auction the 5G spectrum in October 2023.

Malawi also joined a growing list of 5G-enabled African countries after Telekom Networks Malawi (TNM) became the first mobile operator to make 5G services available in the country, on a pilot basis.

The recent 5G African progression is in line with GSMA’s predictions that many African countries will launch 5G services by 2025.

Source: Connecting Africa

She Cranes “Uganda netball national team” secures Shs68 Million Sponsorship from Gals Sports Betting

AdminLeave a commentNews, ,

The Uganda Netball National Team, the She Cranes, has secured a Shs68 million sponsorship deal from Gals Sports Betting. The sponsorship will run for one year and will cover the She Cranes’ participation in the 2023 Netball World Cup and the Africa Netball Championship.

The sponsorship was announced by Daniel Ntale, the Federation head of Marketing, who expressed his excitement at the new partnership.

“We are really excited to have another family member on board in the name of Gals Sports Betting Uganda,” said Ntale.

“They have come at a time when we need them the most. We have been lacking funding, and we have expressed a drought due to negativity that has been running around in media and other channels.” “But to put that aside, we are grateful that even amidst all this, there are still people who have trust in us,” he added.

The sponsorship is a major boost for the She Cranes, who are looking to build on their seventh-place finish at the 2019 Netball World Cup. The 2023 Netball World Cup will be held in Cape Town, South Africa, from July 28 to August 6.

Ntale on how She Cranes will use the sponsorship

“As marketing, we bring in money, then the federation decides what to use it for,” said Ntale.

“But of course, the players are the main objective, so they have to take their portion. Money comes into the game because of them, money comes because of the people working the federation, money comes because of good leadership, so all those have to share the cake.”

Gals Sports Betting joins Uganda Airlines and Plascon Uganda as official partners of the Uganda Netball Federation.

The sponsorship is a significant vote of confidence in the She Cranes and their potential to achieve success on the world stage. With the right support, the She Cranes could be a force to be reckoned with at the 2023 Netball World Cup.

Source: Nnalubaale Sports

Uganda Gaming Licence Requirements and Costs

AdminLeave a commentNews, , , , ,

  1. Proof of payment of Application fees as stated under Lotteries and Gaming (fees) regulations 2017 schedule as attached here under.
  2. Duly filled Licence application form
  3. A cover letter
  4. Certified copy of Certificate of Incorporation/or Registration where the applicant is a company
  1. Certified copy of the Memorandum and Articles of Association where the applicant is a company
  1. Certified copies of Company forms 18 and 20 where the applicant is a company
  2. Where the applicant is an individual, police clearances from Interpol, proof of citizenship, work permits if foreigner and resident here.
  3. Tax Identification number for the applicant
  4. Tax clearance Certificate from Uganda Revenue Authority
  5. Proof of capital adequacy as required by Section 39 of the Act and Regulation 3 of the Lotteries and Gaming (Minimum Capital Requirements) Regulations. See the minimum capital requirement below;
ItemType of LicenceAmount of minimum capital required (UGX)
1.Sports Betting250,000,000
2.Slot Machines250,000,000
3.Manufacture, supply or installation of gaming or betting machines250,000,000
4.Casino operating Licence1,000,000,000
5.National Lottery5,000,000,000
6.Public Lottery250,000,000
7.Pool betting250,000,000
8.Bingo250,000,000
9.Betting intermediary operating licence250,000,000

  1. List of Games rules and equipment that the applicant intends to operate.
  2. Details of premises both principal location and operational premises.
  3. Business plan for the year of business with a Corporate Social Responsibility component.
  4. Details of key employees; CVs, police clearances, proof of citizenship and work permits if foreigners and residents here.
  5. Bank account details
  6. Corporate Social Responsibility plan.
  7. Bank Guarantee of 500,000,000/- in favour of the Board.
  8. Proof of payment of Licence fees upon approval of the application

                                                      SCHEDULE FEES

ItemType of Licence, registration or other matters under the ACT or RegulationsFees Payable (UGX)
1.Application fee to conduct a national or public lottery: (a) foreigners

(b) nationals

 

50,000,000

20,000,000

2.Licence fee to conduct a national lottery100,000,000
3.Application fee to conduct a public lottery

(a) foreigners

(b) nationals

 

20,000,000

10,000,000

4.Licence fee to conduct a public lottery10,000,000
5.Application fee to operate a casino or a casino operating licence;

(a) foreigners

(b) nationals

 

 

50,000,000

20,000,000

6.Licence fee to operate a casino or a casino operating licence15,000,000
7.Application fee for a licence to provide facilities for pool betting or a pool betting operating licence;

(a) foreigners

(b) nationals

 

 

 

20,000,000

10,000,000

8.A pool betting or a pool betting operating licence.10,000,000
9.Application fee for a licence to provide facilities for playing bingo, or a bingo operating licence;

(a) foreigners

(b) nationals

 

 

20,000,000

10,000,000

10.Licence to provide facilities for playing bingo, or a bingo operating licence;10,000,000
11.Application fee for a licence to provide facilities for betting or a general betting operating licence;

(a) foreigners

(b) nationals

 

 

20,000,000

10,000,000

12.Licence fee to provide facilities for betting or a general betting operating licence;10,000,000
13.Application for a licence to act as a betting intermediary or a betting intermediary operating licence; (a) foreigners

(b) nationals

 

 

20,000,000

10,000,000

14.Licence to act as a betting intermediary or a betting intermediary operating licence.10,000,000
15.Licence fee to supply gaming machines available for use in a gaming centre or gambling software operating licence. (a) foreigners

(b) nationals

 

 

20,000,000

10,000,000

15.Application for renewal of licence where the previous licence has not expired in accordance with section 47 of the ActNil
16.An application for a special employee licence50,000
17.Registration of gaming or betting machine or device50,000 per machine
18.Transfer of registered ownership of gaming or betting machine or device50,000
19.Approval to lease or transfer possession of a gaming or betting machine50,000
20.Inspection and approval fee for establishing a branch of a casino or any other gaming or betting facility1,000,000

M-pesa a key mobile money payment provider in Africa acquired licence to operate in Ethiopia.  

AdminLeave a commentNews, , , , ,

Safaricom Ethiopia through its newly established and wholly owned subsidiary; Safaricom M-PESA Mobile Financial Services PLC (Private Limited Company) received the Payment Instrument Issuer License from the National Bank of Ethiopia that enables it to avail mobile financial services to its customers under the trademark M-PESA.

Prior to issuing the license, The National Bank of Ethiopia amended the National Payment Systems Proclamation to provide the necessary regulatory framework for foreign-owned telecom operators to provide Mobile Financial Services (MFS) in Ethiopia, done in consultation with the industry players in the country.

“We are delighted to receive the license to establish M-Pesa and start providing Mobile Financial Services to our customers. M-Pesa comes with a tested and proven track record of enabling financial inclusion in Africa, provides services to more than 51 million customers across seven countries in Africa with a safe, secure, and affordable way to send and receive money, top-up airtime, make bill payments, get short-term loans and much more. We would like to extend our gratitude to the Government of Ethiopia, the Ministry of Finance, and the National Bank of Ethiopia for the support and guidance which will allow us to contribute our share to the efforts of the Government of Ethiopia fast tracking Digital Inclusion and promote innovation outlined in the Digital payments Strategy 2025.” says Anwar Soussa, CEO of Safaricom Ethiopia.

M-Pesa is Africa’s most successful mobile money service and the region’s largest fintech platform both for the banked and unbanked due to its safety and convenience.  It also provides financial services to millions of people who have mobile phones, but do not have bank accounts, or only have limited access to banking services.

In compliance with the applicable legislation in Ethiopia, the subsidiary of Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia was set up with a 50 million Birr initial capital and will offer mobile financial services under the brand M-PESA by the second half of 2023.

This is great for the Ethiopian igaming industry accessing the most known mobile money provider across sub-Saharan Africa to its sports betting facet.

Source: Safaricom Ethiopia

The Evolution and Future of Africa’s gambling industry

AdminLeave a commentNews, ,

Africa has always been an epicenter for innovation and resilience, and one industry exemplifying its dynamism in recent years is gambling. Amid rapid economic development and technological expansion, Africans have enthusiastically taken up this form of entertainment as it thrives amid their regulatory environment—something the US market may offer guidance on.

The African gambling market is soaring with growth potential.

Gambling’s presence in Africa is far from new, yet recent years have witnessed an exponential surge in its popularity. Traditional forms like bingo and slot gaming remain popular, but what has truly revolutionized gambling on this continent has been sports betting.

Football, the beloved game of Africans, lies at the core of this expansion. Replicating the excitement of Premier League or African Cup of Nations games, high-profile individuals like Emmanuel Makandiwa of Zimbabwe and Oluwaseun “Shizzle” Ajayi from Nigeria serve as inspiring examples proving gambling can bring positive changes within communities.

Regulatory Landscape in Continental Settings

African nations’ rich cultural, political, and economic fabric has led to a varied regulatory environment for gambling industries. While some nations offer open gambling environments with established legal frameworks in place, others hold more conservative viewpoints with more stringent views and restrictions in place.

South Africa, known for its progressive nature, has regulated gambling since 1996 with the National Gambling Act. This comprehensive legislation offers a well-structured system for licensing, monitoring, and ensuring responsible gambling practices.

Kenya, known as one of Africa’s thriving betting markets, has experienced an ongoing tussle between government officials and betting operators over taxation and regulation issues. However, Kenya’s Betting, Lotteries, and Gaming Act provides the basis for sector operations, with efforts underway to amend legislation accordingly.

Nigeria’s National Lottery Regulatory Commission oversees its gambling industry under the National Lottery Act 2005 and is moving toward adopting more liberal approaches to regulation that take advantage of its potential.

Uganda presents a more conservative landscape, wherein its government issued an overall ban on sports gambling in 2019, citing negative social impacts as justification. 

Understanding the American Model for Success

An examination of the US gambling industry provides Africa with valuable lessons. This developed market boasts advanced regulations, strong consumer protections, and advanced technological infrastructure.

One lesson Africa could glean from this experience is the value of clear and comprehensive legislation. Every state has comprehensive regulations for online casinos and online and in-person betting. Similar approaches could help Africa balance economic growth, consumer protection, and social responsibility more efficiently.

Markets like the US also make the most of the integration of technology and digital infrastructure. where, cutting-edge technologies like blockchain and AI are used to provide secure, user-friendly platforms. As Africa continues its digital revolution, adopting these advanced technologies could propel its industry even further forward.

Mobile Revolution

Thanks to rising smartphone penetration and better internet access, mobile betting is poised to take off across Africa, mirroring trends seen in the US, where mobile sports betting and casino gaming have seen significant growth. African operators can capitalize on this trend by developing comprehensive mobile platforms with seamless user experiences that meet customers’ expectations.

The Future of Gambling in Africa

Drawing inspiration from its US counterpart, Africa’s gambling industry shows signs of great promise. As digital developments expand and mature markets mature, many trends and developments will likely shape this sector over the coming years.

Source: Business Insider Africa

Key must haves before starting a sports betting operation in Africa

AdminLeave a commentNews, , ,

Products

Sports, no doubt sports betting is the key leader across most key markets in Africa however it’s important to keep in mind that online casino games are taking rocket sky growth too. Just like it is in the most advanced markets like the UK and the rest of Europe football is the most popular sport that bettors place bets on even though operators should look out for other sports coverage as these vary per market. E.g., in South Africa Horse racing, Tennis, and Cricket follow football whereas for most of the rest of the markets in Africa Tennis, Basketball and cricket take a secondary lead after football so these will definitely define turnover if coverage of sports offered in balance per market preference.

Virtual sports are very popular in markets that are mainly retail based whereas this is different in highly online faceted markets as online casino games have become secondary favorites after football even though for some markets virtual sports have proved to be a must-have product not to mention the tremendous boost they acquired during over 24 months of lockdown that came about as a result of the unprecedented outbreak of covid-19.

Crash Games have also made their stand especially Aviator and Rocketman among others, there is a need to develop a full retail version that we believe will hypersonically blow the retail facet of the industry in Africa.

Online casino games are becoming very popular as mentioned earlier even though it’s important to note which providers one must have as their top inclusions on their platforms. The majority of sportsbooks have online casino games but their turnovers are still lagging behind because they haven’t taken into account which providers are favorites per specific markets. As experts in the region we are at your service to assist you make the best offering based on the market one may plan to establish their operations or are based.

Localization

Localization is key to commercial growth therefore is one of the key aspects operators must focus on as copy and paste will definitely cripple chances of succeeding in the region. When it comes to localization this entails product offering, services, operations, and modes of marketing & advertisement. Extensive research which would include all aspects of operations setup is very necessary I.e., from development strategies, marketing & advertisement, CRM systems and other tools that will best serve specific markets and then implement them is the best approach prior to investing heavily in marketing and advertisement that will yield very minimal results. Of course, constant analysis, development, and improvement are an essential part of the game too.

Lastly, localization player experience is also among the top priorities, which would allow the operator to create the most user-friendly journeys for each market.

Staff

The human factor is a very key factor of the equation too, operators should focus most on local professionals – employees/consultants who have experience and understand the best skills, and technical know-how when it comes to the implementation of most aspects of day-to-day operations.

Automation

In order to be fast and agile and to move with the pulse of the business, operators must invest heavily in the automation of processes. Every big idea should be automated immediately, and every human decision documented in a way that makes operating easy even for people who have never run a betting site together with local experience and know-how this combination will definitely be a great factor in driving success.

Payment methods

Mobile money is the most popular payment method across most key markets in Africa so this is a must-have and then other payment methods can be availed to as some advanced markets like South Africa have already advanced to top-level methods like those in the UK and the rest of Europe. While Mobile money is the most popular method of payment these differ based on specific markets e.g. Safaricom (Mpesa), Airtel & MTN are the leaders in most markets followed by other telecom providers like Vodafone, Glo, etc.

Compliance Expertise

Legal issues can greatly jeopardize the growth of the gambling business in some parts of Africa. The continent doesn’t have a long history in online gambling and while local authorities are figuring out the best frameworks to legalize betting, operators should be extremely adaptive as the legal frameworks are vastly different per market.

With very extensive experience across different markets in Africa having carried out marketing & advertisement campaigns for many tier-one African-based sportsbooks we are at your service to assist your operations get the desired market shares.