SBC SUMMIT Finds New Home in Lisbon starting September 2024

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Day one at SBC Summit Barcelona kicks off with big news of its move to Lisbon for its next edition in 2024, SBC’s flagship global event SBC Summit has a new home in Lisbon starting in 2024, in order to meet the demands of the industry’s fastest-growing gathering.

Previously known as SBC Summit Barcelona, the upcoming event will be named SBC Summit 2024, as the branding has evolved to better reflect the worldwide nature of the event.

Taking place over three days, the event is poised to occupy more than , square meters of exhibition and conference space, which is more than twice the size of the 2023 venue measuring , square meters. This capacity enables SBC to welcome 600 exhibitors, nearly doubling the number hosted at the 2023 edition.

With the expanded venue capacity, the SBC Summit will now accommodate , attendees at FIL. This diverse audience will include operators, affiliates, sportsbook and casino suppliers, regulators, payment providers, marketing agencies, associations, legal advisors, start-ups, and more.

SBC SUMMIT 2024 IN NUMBERS

 100,000 sqm Event Space

25,000 Delegates

600 Exhibitors

50 Meeting Rooms

8 Conference Stages

30 Food Trucks and Catering Stations

6 Coffee Bars

20 Networking & Business Lounges

20+ Hotels Next to Venue

Uganda Gaming Licence Requirements and Costs

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  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

The Evolution and Future of Africa’s gambling industry

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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

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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.

Massive blow out of online casino games in Africa

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While all football fans across the globe gear up for the crush of the Titans – Manchester City Vs Inter Milan on Saturday 10th for the UEFA Champions League finals in Istanbul’s Ataturk Olympic Stadium, we at GGC are taking you on a virtual tour into the rapid growth of online casino games in Africa.

Although Africa does not have a uniform set of gaming laws that govern the entire continent, online gambling is experiencing an incredible rise, and at the moment, the focus is on mobile. More and more gamblers are using their smartphones for wagering, and thanks to that, the online casino industry is expected to surpass traditional land-based gambling in revenue.

The Growth of Online Gambling In Africa

The growth of online gambling in Africa is mostly backed by the increased availability of smartphones on the continent and the increase in internet penetration which blew out during over 24 months of lockdown across most African countries that came as a result of covid-19 outbreak. By the end of 2020, there were close to 495 million smartphone owners, which is almost half of the population. Moreover, the rise continued during the pandemic, as the third quarter of 2021 faced the arrival of 26 million smartphones to the African continent.

The increased smartphone ownership boosted the growth of online casino gaming, especially in countries like South Africa where the mobile device penetration is expected to reach 67% by 2026, the region is also experiencing more stable internet connections than ever, especially in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Morocco, Ethiopia, and Egypt where the coverage is booming. For example, in 2020, there were 154 million internet users in Nigeria only, and the number continues to rise.

What’s making online casino games so Popular?

Online casino games are getting more attention from African players than ever, mainly because the majority were forced to bet online for over 24 months as all retail operations in most markets were shut down to reduce the spread of covid-19 paving the way for online casino games and also tremendously increased both internet and mobile phone penetration.

Convenience Using a mobile app for online gambling allows the players to enjoy their favorite time on the go, any time they want, which is totally different from retail/land-based gaming where a player would have to dedicate time to go and visit a physical venue. Moreover, going to a land-based establishment sometimes also means waiting in lines to get a seat at a particular table or a slot machine, which is not the case with gaming on mobile phones. Digital gambling has no limits when it comes to the number of seats and the availability of games. As long as players have a proper mobile device and a stable internet connection, they can have fun whenever they wish. Also, internet gambling adds more privacy and a greater feeling of security to the whole experience, since players don’t have to be surrounded by fellow punters as they play.

Attractive Bonuses

Mobile gamers enjoy the incredible offerings of bonus rewards and promotions. From the moment a punter opens up an account, they continuously receive different prizes, and some of them do not even require real money deposits. All the top casino sites continue racing to attract new users and keep the existing ones with promotions like deposit bonuses, free spins, cash rewards, and many others. Some platforms also developed VIP programs where the members are treated with premium rewards that cannot be claimed by regular users. However, each operator has its own set of rules that control the use of bonuses, and before punters claim any of the rewards, they must follow all key terms and conditions.

Variety of Games

Players who stick to land-based establishments are always limited to the selection of games available on the floor, which may not be an issue for gamblers who can access a large list of online casino games from various providers, from classics like pokers, roulettes, slots, and blackjack, to more advanced options like video poker and live dealer sessions, everything at fingertips.

The future of mobile gaming in Africa definitely looks bright, and the continent is likely to continue pursuing its passion for gambling through smartphones and other devices. As technological advancements continue to boost mobile penetration on the continent, even more Africans will be able to enjoy the convenience and all the amazing benefits of internet gambling.

Conclusion: Africa is the future hub of online casinos

Tanzania igaming licensing requirements and costs

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Who is the regulator of the gaming business in Tanzania?

The gaming industry in Tanzania is regulated by the Gaming Board of Tanzania (the “Gaming Board”) established by section 4 of the Gaming Act CAP 41 Revised Edition 2019. The Gaming Board is responsible for overseeing, monitoring, and regulating gaming activities in Tanzania. It has the duty and powers to carry out operations and management of the gaming activities which includes issuing different types of gaming licenses and certificates in accordance with section 26 of the Gaming Act and Regulation 12 of the Gaming Regulations GN. No 385 of 2003.

Types of gaming in Tanzania that are regulated and licensed by the Gaming Board?

Sports betting (Retail and Online) is the major type of gaming in Tanzania followed by online and land-based casinos, virtual games, retail & SMS lottery, and street slot machine operations.

Types of legal online gaming accepted in Tanzania?

  • Sports betting
  • Online casino games
  • Virtual games
  • Scratch cards

Types of gaming licenses provided in Tanzania?

  • Casino license for conducting table games and slot machines;
  • Slot machines license for promotion of slot machines business in a shop;
  • Manufacturer’s certificate for manufacturing of gaming equipment including its spare part;
  • Seller’s or distributor’s license for supplying, selling, or servicing gaming equipment;
  • Accreditation license for a person engaged in non-gaming activity within gaming premises;
  • Support license, required for a person employed in the gaming activities or a gaming employee;
  • Online casino license for conducting casino games through remote devices with an internet connection;
  • SMS lottery license for conducting SMS Lotteries
  • Principal license for sports betting and slot machines operations;
  • Online sports betting license;
  • Retail sports betting license;
  • National lottery license to conduct national lottery;
  • Lottery licence issued pursuant to section 41(3) to conduct business lotteries;
  • Service provider license to provide services on gaming operations;
  • Gaming consultancy license;
  • Virtual games license

  Application and gaming license fees

Type of license Application fee per year License fee per year
Online casinoTZS 1,000,000USD 40,000
Landbased casinoTZS 1,000,000USD 40,000
Online sports bettingTZS 500,000USD 30,000
Retail sports bettingTZS 500,000TZS 1,000,000
Route operations
(Slot machines in shop premises)		TZS 50,000TZS 500,000
Slot machines (clubs and bars)TZS 10,000TZS 30,000
Forty machines siteTZS 100,000TZS 4,000,000
SMS lotteryTZS 500,000USD 30,000
National lotteryTZS 1,000,000USD 50,000
Service providerTZS 500,000TZS 1,000,000
Key employeeTZS 10,000TZS 50,000
Support employeeTZS 10,000
Manufacturer certificateTZS 500,000TZS 1,000,000
Sellers/distributors/suppliersTZS 500,000TZS 1,000,000
Retailers on gaming premisesTZS 100,000 Casino

TZS 20,000 Forty machines

TZS 10,000 Slot shops & bars

AccreditationTZS 10,000

Key Notes

  1. Amount only applicable to casinos in Dar es Salaam (At the moment casino licenses aren’t issued for Dar es Salaam). In other regions of the country, the amount is USD 15,000
  2. Amount only applicable to casinos in Dar es Salaam. In other regions of the country, the amount is TZS 2,000,000
  • A company that already has a license to promote lottery for business purposes (not national lottery) and decides to apply for the national lottery as well the amount is USD 40,000

Eligibility criteria for obtaining a gaming license

An applicant for a gaming license has to meet the following criteria under Regulation 3 of the Gaming Regulations:

  • Has never been previously denied a gaming license in Mainland Tanzania or any other country
  • Has never had a gaming license revoked or suspended nor have they withdrawn an application for any gaming license in Mainland Tanzania or any other country;
  • The applicant must have a clean criminal record;
  • The applicant must provide evidence of adequate funding available to pay all obligations and gaming operations;
  • Must possess gaming premises that are deemed suitable by the Gaming Board. Unsuitable locations for gaming activities are places in the immediate vicinity of any school, place of worship, hospital, national security, residential areas, places allowing minor clientele, and places difficult to police;
  • Must comply with all the provisions of the Gaming Act and the Gaming Regulations.

The process of obtaining a gaming license

                                         The process to obtain a gaming license
 Steps Activities Timeframe
1.Submit documents to the Gaming Board to process the application1.     Two copies of the Business Plan/Feasibility
Study. Should contain a clear statement of project objectives, applicants’ profiles, details
of investment costs and how the proposed investment will be financed (name the specific sources of funds and their contacts, terms
and conditions of the loans if applicable), sources of technology if applicable and gaming equipment, market study, expected employment generation,

projected financial and economic analysis including projected annual balance sheets and income statements for the first four years, proposed implementation schedule, and

any other information that will useful for the determination of the application.

2.     Duly filled application forms and application fees paid

 

3.     Duly filled Personal Declaration Form for each Director

 

4.     A copy of the company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association

 

5.     A certified copy of the Certificate of Company Incorporation.

6.     Evidence of sufficient financial capital5 available for the implementation of the project.

7.     Proof of citizenship of every incorporator/ subscriber, and every director and senior officer. This includes a detailed Curriculum Vitae, a photocopy of the first five pages of a passport, a passport-size photograph, and historical background.

8.     Audited Balance Sheets and Income Statements of every incorporator/subscriber and every director and senior officer.

Within 30 days from the date of receipt of an application, Gaming Board will approve/ disapprove the application

Key Notes

  • All application fees are non-refundable
  • There should be a minimum investment capital for a foreign company of USD 500,000 proven to exist for the investment in Tanzania. Minimum investment capital for a local company of USD 300,000 has proven to exist for investment in Tanzania.

 

9. Tax Clearance from the Income Tax office of the country of origin of the applicant and every director and senior officer.

10. Statement from two persons (not relatives) vouching for the good moral character and financial responsibility of the incorporators/ subscribers and the proposed directors and senior officers.

11. Company Board of Directors’ resolution to invest in Tanzania.

For an internet gaming license, the addition of the following documents;
12. Anti-bribe pledge form.
13. Responsible gaming guidelines.

14. Application forms prescribed in the Internet Gaming Regulation for each director or shareholder with 5% of ownership or controlling interest in the applicant company.

15. Detailed information about the service provider, structure and equipment, and services to be offered.

16. Description of the technology and its source.

2.On receipt of the application, the Gaming Board will undertake an investigation to determine the applicant’s suitability1.     A vetting process of the shareholders, directors, and business

2.     Applicants (except support employee’s licenses) are to pay for the investigation costs6 as determined by the Gaming Board

3.     In addition, applicants shall pay to the Gaming Board for transportation and its related costs together with significant office expenses and other related expenses until the conclusion of the investigation.

The investigation shall be concluded upon the issuance of an initial order of grant or denial of the license by the Gaming Board.
3.Gaming Board to grant Gaming License1. On condition applicant has met all requirements including payment of fees and costsThe Gaming license shall be valid for one year subject to renewal.
  • The applicant shall deposit to the Gaming Board such amount as may be sufficient for that purpose.

Gaming Taxes for all types of gaming in TZ

The Gaming tax is charged on these types of gaming namely; Casinos, Sports Betting, SMS Lottery, National Lottery, Street slot Machines, Forty Machines Sites, Virtual games, and other gaming products.

  1. Sports Betting, online and retail is taxed at the rate of 25% of Gross Gaming Revenue with 15% on net winnings of players. The 5% of the tax remitted shall be allocated to the Sports Development Fund.
  2. SMS Lotteries, Forty Machines Sites, and Internet Casino operations are taxed at the rate of 25% of Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) with 15% on net winnings;
  • Street slot machines are taxed TZS 100,000 per machine per month with 15% on net winnings;
  1. National Lotteries is taxed 20% of Gross Gaming Revenue with 15% on net winnings;
  2. Casino operations are taxed at the rate of 18% of the weekly Gross Gaming Revenue and all land-based casinos are taxed at the rate of 12% on net winnings.
  3. Virtual games are taxed at the rate of 10% of the Gross Gaming Revenue and a 15% rate on net winnings.
  • Other gaming products under section 51 are taxed at the rate of 10% of the Gross Gaming Revenue and 15% on net winnings.

Additional features can be found in our complete feasibility market reports which we can arrange at a request that includes but are not limited to;

  • Estimated Market overview
  • Main players, their products, and models of operations
  • Taxation frameworks
  • Repatriation of funds policy
  • Double Taxation agreements (DTAs)
  • Regulatory frameworks (Existing, new, and upcoming)
  • Business plan based on the type of gaming

Source: Shikana Law Group

 

Summary highlights of the Nigerian Sports betting industry

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Yesterday was a weekend mixed with emotions for all Arsenal fans across the world as they lost to Brighton their only ticket to the English Premier League title realm, it’s such football matches that have always made sports very unpredictable, entertaining, exciting, and very profitable on the other hand.

“As the saying goes signed, sealed, and delivered.…… that we did yesterday to the title” As usual let’s take you on another tour in Africa this time we are in Nigeria.

 Nigeria is a West African country bordered to the north by Niger, to the east by Chad and Cameroun, to the south by the Gulf of Guinea of the Atlantic Ocean, and to the west by Benin.  Nigeria is not only large in area, larger than the U.S. state of Texas—but also Africa’s most populous country with a population of over 200 million people so sports in Nigeria is big business.

The Draft 2020 National Sports Industry Policy estimated that the industry could generate 2 trillion Naira ($4.7 Billion) in average annual revenue, provide 5 to 10 million direct and indirect jobs and contribute about 1.5% to 3% of GDP over 10 years. The sports betting industry in Nigeria has enormously contributed to the growth of Nigerian sports, especially football that even some of the betting companies offer odds on matches played in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL). But the majority aren’t because they are still skeptical or cautious about the competitive nature of the NPFL.

With over 52 licensed sports betting companies – Bet9ja, NairaBet, BetKing, Betway, Betpawa, Sporty Bet, Winners, and 1xBet are some of the key players fighting to have the biggest shares of the market where over 60 million Nigerians aged between 18 and 40 years spend about $5.5m on sports betting daily, or $2 Billion annually which explains the potential of the market even with over 47 licensed sports-books.

Key Highlights

The increasing adoption of technology by betting companies supported by progress in digital penetration across the country is stimulating sports betting among the educated and the middle class with widespread unemployment in has been and continues to be the main reason for increased sports betting.

  • Over 33% of working-age Nigerians have no jobs. Among young people, 63.5%, or over 19 million, are either unemployed or under-employed according to the country’s statistics office.
  • Many people made sports betting a source of their livelihood.
  • Poverty in Nigeria cuts across the young and old, rural and urban dwellers, and men and women. Nigeria has 70 million poor people, over 30% of the population so many have found relief in sports betting and the hope of a big win.

The percentage of those who bet with N500 ($1) to N1000 as against bettors who spend far higher tells you that sports betting is largely fueled by poverty, the state of the economy, and the need for people to make ends meet.

Botswana gaming industry

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Botswana is a landlocked country in southern Africa with a landscape defined by the Kalahari Desert and Okavango Delta with a small population of 2.3 million, the country was annexed by Great Britain in 1885 and remained a colony until 1966. On the 30th of September of that year, the first general elections took place and marked the establishment of the Republic of Botswana. The country’s gaming industry is famously known for its brick-and-mortar casinos. Most of them are housed by hotels or resorts making them a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Casinos

Most casinos open for 24 hours while others open for limited hours. Common casino games just like in most casinos worldwide are blackjack, bingo, Baccarat, Roulette, poker, and slot machines. Plus, almost every casino in Botswana offers live poker games. Casinos in Botswana are majorly clustered in two popular towns–Gaborone and Francistown. Gaborone Sun Hotel and Casino is the largest casino found in Botswana. It is located within the Grand Palm Hotel Casino Convection resort with its doors open 24/7.

The Sediment and CrestaThapama Hotel is a renowned casino located in Francistown. The casino is open for a limited time—11 am to 2 am. Other licensed physical-based casinos include Syringa Casino, King’s CasinoMarang Hotel and Casino, Moonlite Casino, Menateng Casino, Sedibeng Casino, and Letsatsi Casino. Sun International Group ran most of these casinos.

Regulation

The industry is regulated by the Gambling Authority which exists as an entity under the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI). According to the Gambling Authority of Botswana, the industry will have a strong external focus with a market that is largely outside Botswana’s borders by the year 2036. The authority affirms that this will be realized through an economy that is diversified, competitive, and private-sector-led, with sustainable business opportunities. This intent is further supported by the National Development Plan 11 which aligns with the national vision and commits to developing diversified sources of economic growth as one of the priority areas in the long term. Vision 2036 aims to transform Botswana from an upper-middle-income country to a high-income country within the next 15 years. This Vision identifies the following four key Pillars as the foundation of the principles it espouses: Sustainable Economic Development, Human and Social Development, Sustainable Environment, and Governance, Peace, and Security.

The Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry contributes to the Vision 2036 pillar ‘Prosperity for All’ and the NDP 11 ‘Economy and Employment’ thematic area. Therefore the Ministry drives policy formulation and strategies that seek to diversify the national economy through the creation of a conducive business environment, and diversified industries in addition to creating sustainable employment for Batswana by facilitating domestic and foreign direct investments. The Ministry also promotes the development of an entrepreneurial culture. These priority areas seek to address key national challenges such as poverty, unemployment, income inequality, and slow economic growth. Given the fact that the Authority is a regulator, its role in this transformation agenda is effectively facilitating the growth of the gaming industry. A position that was endorsed by both the NSO and the MITI.

Sports betting opportunity

As mentioned earlier the industry is occupied mainly by brick-and-mortar casinos with a few betting companies and the majority of international online sportsbooks that avail their offerings to this country meaning regardless of their population being small it’s a sweet heaven for small sportsbooks that would like to expand into Africa as a starting nest. Less investment reasonable business opportunity

By Najib Balinda attributed to the Gambling Authority of Botswana

 

 

The Rise of Virtual Sports in Africa

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The African gambling industry has changed substantially over the last two years which notably arose due to the unprecedented outbreak of covid-19 that led to the growth of virtual sports far beyond what we all imagined since there was a time when all sports leagues were shutdown leaving sportsbook providers with no sports games playing to generate odds feeds from for their clients thus forcing punters to resort to only virtual sports and Esports.

The events in virtual sports are usually shorter than live sports events, lasting 3 – 5 minutes, and are depicted with extremely realistic graphics of the games made/created from real major sports leagues or races. Aside from realistic graphics and probabilities, realistic outcomes are possible in virtual sports events same as most betting markets in real Prematch and live sports betting.

 Thanks to technological advancements, an increase in both internet and mobile phone penetration, and a burgeoning population with a passion for sports, notably football. African bettors are growing aficionados of virtual sports in addition to regular sports betting across all popular betting sites and also in retail networks.

Why are virtual Sports Popular among African punters?

Virtual sports are appealing to football fans who wish to place larger numbers of modest wagers. This occurs to almost precisely coincides with modern African bettors. When you consider the age of the players and their fondness for technology, it’s easy to see why virtuals are so popular.

African demographics are characterized by youth. According to UN-Habitat figures, roughly 420 million people, or 35% of the continent’s population, are between the ages of 15 and 35. Sports bettors are typically younger over the world, and much more so in Africa. As many as 54% of sub-Saharan Africans aged 17 to 35 had at least tried betting Mobile betting is popular among African gamblers. According to GeoPoll, 75% of bettors use their mobile phones to place their wagers. As mobile adoption rises across the continent, sports bettors in some nations are more likely to have a mobile phone than a laptop

Virtual sports may be the first sports betting encounter for younger generations who have grown up in a world of high-definition graphics and video games. Betting on virtual sports can be utilized as a learning tool for people who are unfamiliar with the puzzling odds concept. Virtuals offer a larger frequency of betting possibilities, allowing punters to become familiar with the odds systems.

Virtuals provide skilled gamblers with the endless betting alternatives they’ve always wanted. Virtual sports bettors usually stop watching the event after a few weeks; the long-term attraction is the excitement of staking and winning money instantly after a few minutes. Playing the odds and putting their gut sense to the test is something many punters enjoy almost as much as the sport itself

In Africa, the great majority of sports bettors wager frequently but in small amounts. In Kenya/Uganda, for example, the majority of gamblers wager at least thrice a week, if not every day. According to a three-year-old IPSOS survey, the typical Kenyan resident aged between 18 and 29 spends $14 every month on betting. Virtual sports betting is well-suited to the low-volume, high-frequency betting habit. There’s also the issue of legal standing to consider. Games of skill, for example, are legal in Nigeria, but games of chance are banned. Because evaluating the odds before placing a wager requires ability, Nigerian punters can legally bet on virtual sports at any time

Finally, virtual sports appeal to the lifestyle and mindset of young, punters, which is why they are gaining popularity in Africa and worldwide. There’s never a shortage of events to wager on with 24/7 availability, thousands of events every day, plus the fact that virtual sports have no off-season

What are the forecasts for the future?

Any recipe for success must regard each country as an individual. Providers can also adapt their products to the market using virtuals. Football is a no-brainer, but the mix of other products, such as greyhound, horse racing, and Spin & Win (Virtual Roulette) will be determined by regional preferences

Virtual betting’s high-frequency, short-duration choice corresponds to most punters’ fast-paced lifestyles. It’s no surprise that operators consider Africa a strong market for virtual sports betting, given technology advancements, increased sports betting revenues, and a young and growing population In fact, gambling experts believe that virtual sports will outperform regular sports betting in terms of income. The moderating effects of virtual sports on the sports wagering business on the internet can be compared to the impact of streaming technology on the entertainment sector. With so much entertainment available at their fingertips, going to the movies for a new film has become more of a chore than an experience. Similarly, with virtual sports events available at all times, young African bettors may consider waiting for a live match to be a waste of time

When assessing the possibilities for virtual sports betting (or any other product) in Africa, it’s critical to avoid making assumptions about how development will proceed in other parts of the world. Understanding the future of the African betting market will rely on a thorough examination of its existing situation, rather than attempting to duplicate the growth of markets in Europe or Asia

African markets are expected to develop at their own speed, according to investors. The first thing that comes to mind is communication. Mobile adoption is surging across the continent, with Kenya surpassing 100% and other countries approaching comparable levels. While the Western world adapted to traditional telephones before moving on to the next stage of the technological revolution, the landline was rendered obsolete for many Africans even before it was deployed

The rising popularity of Online casinos in Africa

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Although Africa does not have a uniform set of gaming laws that govern the entire continent, online gambling is experiencing an incredible rise, and at the moment, the focus is on mobile. More and more gamblers are using their smartphones for wagering, and thanks to that, the online casino industry is expected to surpass traditional land-based gambling in revenue.

The Growth of Online Gambling In Africa

The growth of online gambling in Africa is mostly backed by the increased availability of smartphones on the continent and the increase in internet penetration which blew out during over 24 months of lockdown across most African countries that came as a result of covid-19 outbreak. By the end of 2020, there were close to 495 million smartphone owners, which is almost half of the population. Moreover, the rise continued during the pandemic, as the third quarter of 2021 faced the arrival of 26 million smartphones to the African continent.

The increased smartphone ownership boosted the growth of online casino gaming, especially in countries like South Africa where the mobile device penetration is expected to reach 67% by 2026, the region is also experiencing more stable internet connections than ever, especially in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Morocco, Ethiopia, and Egypt where the coverage is booming. For example, in 2020, there were 154 million internet users in Nigeria only, and the number continues to rise.

 

What’s making online casino games so Popular?

Online casino games are getting more attention from African players than ever, mainly because the majority were forced to bet online for over 24 months as all retail operations in most markets were shut down to reduce the spread of covid-19 paving the way for online casino games and also tremendously increased both internet and mobile phone penetration.

Convenience Using a mobile app for online gambling allows the players to enjoy their favorite time on the go, any time they want, which is totally different from retail/land-based gaming where a player would have to dedicate time to go and visit a physical venue. Moreover, going to a land-based establishment sometimes also means waiting in lines to get a seat at a particular table or a slot machine, which is not the case with gaming on mobile phones. Digital gambling has no limits when it comes to the number of seats and the availability of games. As long as players have a proper mobile device and a stable internet connection, they can have fun whenever they wish. Also, internet gambling adds more privacy and a greater feeling of security to the whole experience, since players don’t have to be surrounded by fellow punters as they play.

Attractive Bonuses

Mobile gamers enjoy the incredible offerings of bonus rewards and promotions. From the moment a punter opens up an account, they continuously receive different prizes, and some of them do not even require real money deposits. All the top casino sites continue racing to attract new users and keep the existing ones with promotions like deposit bonuses, free spins, cash rewards, and many others. Some platforms also developed VIP programs where the members are treated with premium rewards that cannot be claimed by regular users. However, each operator has its own set of rules that control the use of bonuses, and before punters claim any of the rewards, they must follow all key terms and conditions.

Variety of Games

Players who stick to land-based establishments are always limited to the selection of games available on the floor, which may not be an issue for gamblers who can access a large list of online casino games from various providers, from classics like pokers, roulettes, slots, and blackjack, to more advanced options like video poker and live dealer sessions, everything at fingertips.

The future of mobile gaming in Africa definitely looks bright, and the continent is likely to continue pursuing its passion for gambling through smartphones and other devices. As technological advancements continue to boost mobile penetration on the continent, even more Africans will be able to enjoy the convenience and all the amazing benefits of internet gambling.

Conclusion: Africa is the future hub of online casinos