Magazine E-PLAY Africa 3/2020

NR 3/2020

How betting companies

are dominating over Africa NIGERIA – MARKET REPORT

DAL NEGRO – TRADITION AND ITALIAN DESIGN

GHANA MOBILE MONEY PENETRATION

THE AFRICAN EDITION

OF THE WORLD’S

LARGEST ONLINE BETTING

AND GAMING EVENT 2,000

60

DELEGATES

SPEAKERS

25

EXHIBITORS

6-7 OCTOBER 2020 SPEAKER PREVIEW

YAKUBU AYEGBENI Former Nigeria International Footballer / Interwetten Ambassador

ILZE JANSONE Managing Director betBonanza

AKIN ALABI Founder Nairabet

ZENO OSSKO CEO BetWarrior

SAB JHOTI CEO Bonmoja

KIRSTEN OPENSHAW Head of Digital Media and Social William Hill

ROBIN BENNETT Head of Department: Regulatory Compliance Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board

TYRONE DOBBIN Managing Director Sportingbet South Africa

DOLAN BEUTHIN CEO BetMonsta

#SBCDSAFRICA

FLORIAN GUEDE Director Mybet Africa

ADEKUNLE ADENIJI MD betBonanza

JOHNSON ADEWALE FOYE Executive Director Westernlottobet

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT SBCEVENTS.COM/SBC-DIGITAL-SUMMIT-AFRICA

In the issue: 5/8 Growth and Effects of Mobile Technology in Africa 9/12

Covid-19 and what it means for the Gambling Industry

13/16 Starting gambling business in Cameroon 18/21 Gambling as a Career Opportunity 23/25 How betting Companies are Dominating Africa 26/28 DAL NEGRO – tradition and Italian design are synonymous with perfection 30/32 The gambling machine among other milestone inventions 34/36 GLI – history a global gaming machine certification company 37/43 Gambling in Nigeria 44/45 Gambling curiosity 46/49 Online sports betting market is the future and the future is here!!

52/55 East Africa Sees a Rise in E-Gaming 56/58 Ghana Mobile Money Penetration-Propel iGaming Betting 59/62 History of Blackjack, the most popular casino game

Growth and Effects

of Mobile Technology in Africa The fact that mobile technology is growing means that it depicts how the future of the world is going to be. The many advancements that have been made in digital technology have made the world better than ever before. Mobile technology in the continent has brought about a shift in the landscape of the continent where it has gone higher.

Peris Wambu "Hey, Peris here! I am enthusiastic about sports and gaming in general and a massive Liverpool fan. Every piece of writing you receive is brought to you by the power of countless cups of coffee!"

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ased on some of the latest statistics, the number of people who are using mobile phones is increasing on a daily basis in the continent. It is very clear that there are changes being brought about by mobile technology, including many aspects that are related directly to the lives of people. Just to mention but a few, countries like South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria are some of the leaders in this revolution. Another good example is the manner in which Betway Zambia is rapidly developing, as the company is gaining more popularity across Africa, considering that it has allowed many punters to place their wagers against many of the favorite matches. At the same time, the winnings that one can get are very attractive.

What is Pushing This Growth?

The number of mobile phones in Africa has exponentially increased to the extent that the market is saturated. The kinds of phones

that are found in the continent are numerous, including the more complex and sophisticated ones to those that are regarded as not being genuine. It is also safe to regard them as the African computers as they can be used to handle anything and everything.

Secondly, the development of mobile phone technology can also be

connected to the fact that the continent is experiencing robust internet connection. A few decades ago, the main way of creating links was through satellite. Nonetheless, fiber optic connectivity has opened up possibilities that have made individuals connect using internet that is highly reliable. For example, in a country that Kenya, the number of internal and exter5

eficiaries of the technology. The manner in which funds are transferred from one person to the other has developed with ease. May fintech startups have also sprang up as a result of the enhancement of mobile technology. The list of the areas that have benefitted is endless, but one other sector that has been positively impacted is the gambling industry.

nal main fiber optic cables is four.

Within the same country, between 2014 and 2019, revenue acquired from internet connectivity by Internet Service Providers grew by 20%. Based on data from PwC, internet service providers’ revenue is expected to reach a maximum high of US $1.228 billion by the end of the year 2020.

Thirdly, the fact that Africa has the largest population of young people in the world is also a key factor in the push towards the growth of mobile phone technology within the continent. Most of the youths are developing more and more curiosity towards the technology. It is from that that there are many students both at secondary and university level inventing various forms of software that can be used in mobile phones. This is mainly possible by the fact accessing information has become easier, now that mobile phones with internet connectivity are also highly affordable.

What is the Actual Impact?

Various sectors within the continent have benefited from the development of mobile technology.

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For example, within the health sector, there are many health companies that have started implemented the use of mobile technology as a way of getting information. One of the most perfect examples in this case is Uganda, where mobile technology use in the sector has been taken to a higher level. The country has come up with a Mobile Vital Record System (MVRS) that is used in the registration of child birth, mortality, and death rates.

Education is the other sector that has greatly benefited from the enhancement of mobile technology.

Many schools within the continent are implementing the technology to have both learners and teachers access information. For instance, homeschooling is becoming popular as people can teach themselves while at home, or can be taught by teachers remotely.

Mobile money transfer is another area that need to be mentioned as it may be regarded as one of the best discoveries of the millennium.

With Kenya as the pioneer nation, it is no wonder that the country is regarded as one of the leading ben-

How is the Betting Industry Enjoying From Mobile Technology?

According to a study by GeoPoll in Kenya, mobile phone usage is the leading contributor towards more people joining the betting industry. There are also specifics when looking at the types of phones that people own, with 40% of those that own basic phones engaging in the activity when compared to 64% of those that have smart phones, with the main difference being in the access of internet. Females who have basic phones are the least likely people to engage in betting, as only 27% of them engage in the activity.

Additionally, for those who have gambled, the use of mobile applications is the most common means of engagement, as 88% of punters use their mobile devices to wager, with 55% of them doing so at least once a week, as some may do so more than once. It is also based on these statistics that mobile technology based gambling is the most common and popular, as mobile phones are easy and reliable to use.

It is also a clear indication of the way the technology has introduced massive changes within an industry that is growing in popularity on a daily basis.

In Africa, casinos are very popular in South Africa considering that

the regulation of the same is done in an organized manner. However, in Kenya, only about 36% of punters engaged in casino betting, and only a third of those indicated that they did so at least once in a month. Cyber cafes and betting shops are less used for gambling when compared to mobile considering that they are not open all the time, and they are not located everywhere. This is as opposed to mobile phones that can be carried anywhere, and punters can place their wagers at any given time.

The Social Aspect of Mobile technology It is also worth noting that there is the social aspect that comes with mobile based betting, as there are those who indicated that they at times bet alone by themselves, while there are those who indicated that they may engage a few friends in analyzing matches and doing research. While some may not engage with each other physically, the presence of some instant messaging apps like Whatsapp and Telegram that are mobile based means that people from different geographical locations can work collaboratively in real time to do betting research. It is on this basis that mobile based applications have helped sports betting become a social sporting activity for many people across the continent.

ers from various parts of the continent bet on the game. To indicate the popularity, lotteries come in second place with only 11 percent of them engaging in that type of gambling. As mentioned earlier, the largest number of people engaging in sports betting is that of the youth, hence the higher popularity of sports. Most of those who engage in lottery gambling belong to an older age group, hence having less popularity. While local and international football leagues are very popular among many young punters, some tournaments have also attracted massive gambling activities using mobile phones, including the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), the world cup, and the Euros.

As such, it is clear how mobile phone technology has impacted the various sectors within different African countries, and it is true to indicate that most of the influences are positive. Besides the use of the technology in the education and healthcare sectors, its use in the gambling industry has greatly improved the betting ecosystem. The ease of use and the high affordability rate has greatly contributed towards the popular use of mobile phones in betting. The future looks brighter as technology is so dynamic. It is just about time for the world to realize bigger surprises in mobile phone advancement. n

As the technology is spreading all over the continent, it is also worth indicating that it has affected the level of popularity of the various sporting activities, as many people have become more familiar with various types of sports and any related information. With regards to the most popular sport that people bet on, football is the leading sport, as more than 80% of punt7

Covid-19 and what it means for the Gambling Industry The presence of Covid-19 has greatly impacted all industries in Africa, and the gambling industry is no exception, just as many of those have also been affected in the other continents. The fact that it was something that came unexpectedly implies that the industry was not prepared for the eventuality. For Africa, the situation is worse from the fact that that there are other underlying issues such as poverty, poor infrastructure, and poor healthcare measures.

Peter Situma is a lover of football and a staunch supporter of Chelsea Football Club. He has been working as a sports betting and casino gambling writer for over 5 years. He is also interested in technology and playing FIFA

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owever, the surprising bit about being prepared is that Africa appears to be better than most countries in the western world, though that does not reflect the real situation in the grass roots. The gambling industry may be one of the hardest hit 10

industries, especially since most of the physical sports were put on hold. As that happened, many punters lacked a way of betting on what they loved most, hence leaving a vacuum in an industry that was not prepared for the pandemic. Despite the fact that there

are some factions that have opted for virtual games, these may not have the attraction that live games bring in the competition. Most casinos have also shut their doors, with those engaging in the same online may not account to 25 percent of the players.

With gambling almost at a total shutdown, how would the process go on beyond Covid-19? It is worth noting that this is not something that will end any time soon as there may be several waves of new infections to a point when there will be a vaccine. In that case, one of the scenarios that may take place is that several African governments may move to amend online laws that affect online gambling as a way of instilling some hope in the industry. South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya may be at the forefront in achieving this, considering that the gambling sector is one of the industries that creates a lot of income for these countries.

What it actually means for the Industry in Africa At the start of the pandemic, most economic activities were shut down, including air travel that was totally out, only for the transportation of specific cargo between countries. Most first world countries were hard-hit to the extent that they revealed some flaws that were hidden. However, the gambling industry has received one major positive; the fact that online gambling may be on the rise as demand increases. Others that include Lottery have experienced some of its products being highly demanded, whereas some have seen a great change in the way customers purchase the products.

Effects of Covid-19 on Punters in Africa Using coronavirus data from various gambling supportive agencies from various countries in the continent, there is a clear picture regarding how gamblers have reacted to the presence of the pandemic, and there are various evaluations that can be detected

from the data regarding national averages.

able from the house, including online gambling.

One of the most essential findings is that there was an increase in the way gamblers are consuming media than what was happening before, with a surge in the activities taking place online. From the beginning of the pandemic: • 24 percent of punters are using most of their time on apps • 35 percent are seen staying on social media more • 48 percent are spending more time on watching online shows • 39 percent are spending more time watching video, especially on You Tube.

The Short-Term Effects In the short haul, betting companies will have to tread on a lighter note. The industry has suffered in most cases when there is uncertainty, including the imposition of governmental bans that have greatly affected the industry.

However, the fact that many physical bookmakers, casinos, and race tracks have shutdown implies that the demand for any online activity has increased in any sector. The fact that many of these physical sports were stopped meant there was an increase in e-sports betting, with some agencies reporting an increase in the number of hours spent watching virtual sports.

With regards to the usage of devices, 48 percent of the punters are using their smartphones more, while41 percent indicate that they rely more on their laptops.

With close to a quarter of all the usual spending being severely threatened by the presence of the lockdown, and 66 percent of the punters foreseeing that covid-19 will have a weak or no impact on their cash, there is a chance that many of them will spend more money on activities that are do-

In Casinos, especially in South Africa, searches related to the activities on online poker indicated that there was an increase since the start of the lockdown, with various online casino platforms issuing entertainment opportunities for many punters. There were similar results when searching conversations surrounding online bingo and online slots. The peak of these search interest optimized in the 11

first weeks of the lockdown.

For lottery, some products have seen an increase of interest from consumers, though the manner in which the people are getting the tickets has changed in a great manner, as most of them are preferring to get the same through online purchases.

Long-Term Implications for Gambling in Africa • Preparing for a recession – There are great indications for the presence of a recession, and the situation may worsen before bettering. However, for most betting brands, despite being an added unnecessary expenditure for punters, recent studies are indicative of the fact that gambling in most cases is affected in a small way during recession times.

• The disappearance of small physical locations – as social distancing rules may continue to become stronger in the coming period, most consumers will avoid visiting physical betting venues. Even at that point when they will resume operations, many small physical locations will suffer as they may struggle in ensuring business survival.

• E-sports betting may be the next big thing – e-sports is al-

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ready the fastest growing activity in the globe at the moment as the presence of the pandemic has worked for its development. The fact that it is suitable as a sport that promoted social distancing implies that there are many more ventures yet to be experienced in the sector.

• The rise of the silver surfer – the lockdown has seen many people experiment on various indoor activities, and for the elderly, most of whom were “analog” have had no choice other than learn on some new digital skills.

How Brands are expected to respond • Develop plans that would take advantage of the available cheap media – In recent times, the number of hours that people are spending online has increased, considering that costs of doing the same are historically at a low, including social and Google ecosystem channels.

While this is once in a lifetime chance to develop the brand and visibility in the market, it is also another chance of developing strategies that would take advantage of using cheap media in the future and capturing more consumers at the right moment.

• Be keen on long-term strategic plans – This is the best moment for companies to concentrate on developing long-term strategies for marketing and recruiting new customers. From the perspective of digital marketing, it is time to spend more time on some activities that include SEO, as they may guarantee better returns in the coming years as online presence and demand continues to increase.

• Create joy-instilling content for consumers – most betting companies have been forced to come up with new content that can excite customers for a long time, considering that there is uncertainty with regards to the extent at which the pandemic will last.

Recent research has indicated that while punters may be happy to see some of their favorite betting companies at the forefront in marketing their brands, they would be more excited in seeing some newer interesting content developed for their consumption.

With a clear media strategy accompanied with robust foundations of the SEO, most companies may see a rise in the number of people who would be interested in partaking in sporting activities.

This could be mainly achieved through sports betting.

• Conserve spending on adverts during the recession period as a way of developing market presence and share – most of the companies will minimize on the way they spend in the coming weeks or months. As such, companies that take advantage of the time and spend more may see an increase in market voice that may directly translate to an increase in the market share, with more consumers recognizing the brand. n

Starting gambling business in

Cameroon

Adeleye Awakan Author E-play Africa, sports betting reviews, thoughtful leardership articles in Africa gambling industry, marketing gaming platforms in Africa with strong networking relationship with gaming operators in Africa, Expertise in PR, marketing communication, and consultant on gaming in Africa.

Gambling and game of chance are legal in Cameroon. Besides, online gambling is not explicitly regulated; there is a series online gambling platform that offers gambling services. Though you find minimal regulations in place, this has paved the way for a website dedicated to gambling to install themselves comfortably with no restrictions in the country with no laws or regulations for or against any online gaming.

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nlike online gambling, land-based gambling in Cameroon is licensed and legal to operate in the country.

However, the current gambling laws were written in 1989 and modified in 2004 under the Min14

istry of finance law, which is used to regulate Cameroon’s gambling business. However, it does enable most forms of gambling in the country, including land-based casinos, horse racing betting, football betting, and lotteries.

Cameroon, the Central Africa country, boarded by Nigeria to the west and the north, Chad to the northeast, the Central African Republic to the east; Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Republic of Congo to the south, with an es-

timated population of over 24 million people, while the capital city Yaounde 2.8 million resident. Consequently, the government made a consistent effort to update the outdated gambling law by proposing a new gambling law. If it became legal, it would see all forms of online gambling legal. There are currently 21 licensed gaming operators in Cameroon, with the majority in the city of Douala and Yaounde. Such as 1xbet, and Meridianbet, among others, have established there operations in the country. According to the statistics, there are seven casinos, five gaming machine halls, and nine lottery and betting shops in Cameroon.

Investing in Cameroon Cameroon is a lower-middle-income country located in sub-Saharan Africa with a strategic location that makes the country gateway into the landlocked region of Central Africa. In contrast Cameroon undoubtedly an influential nation in the economy and monetary of Central Africa countries. According to the IMF, 2019, Cameroon growth fell to 3.7% from 4.1 percent year earlier. This decline was partially offset by the rebound in the oil and gas sector. According to the forecasts on April 14th, 2020, due to the outbreak of COVID-19, GDP growth expected to fall -1.2% in 2020. Pick up to 4,1 percent in 2021, subject to the post-pandemic global economy recovery. Although Cameroon’s diverse economy remains the most resilient in Central Africa, the weakness of its growing base and its significant exposure to fluctuations in global commodity prices are sources of vulnerability.

Despite the country’s rather sat-

isfying economic performance, poverty affects nearly 40% of the population, around 8 million people. While the Gross National Index (GNI) per capita income is 1,440 US dollars, Cameroon offers many investment opportunities for foreigners and nationals to invest in the natural prosperous Central Africa. The country is bilingual, using both French and English as official languages. It has a highly educated human resource, which is always available in abundance. As mentioned earlier, Cameroon has a strategic position in the region, serving as a port to landlocked countries Chad and the Central African Republic. Its natural resources and economic potential have made it one of the most prominent havens for foreign investors looking to invest in Africa. However, Cameroon is no different from other African countries. The popularization of Sports betting and casino gambling is evident and is quite popular in Cameroon, especially football betting, which is the most followed sports among youth betting in the shop is still the preferred choice for players in Cameroon.

How to Start Gambling Business in Cameroon Bill N0 2015/012 of July 16, 2015, spells out the modalities of running games of chance business in Cameroon. It puts in place conditions, rules, and regulations and a procedure for obtaining a concession agreement and authorization for games of chance. To run a Casino, betting, and lottery company in Cameroon, you need to have your business registered in the country. So the basic is to incorporate a company in Cameroon and obtain a business license.

All documents involved in incorporating a company are needed to get a concession license to start a casino, betting, and lottery business. The concession agreement for Casino Betting and Lottery Companies to carry out gaming activities in Cameroon, you must have attained the age of maturity, have never been imprisoned for violence, and be of good morality.

Though, Games of Chance in Cameroon have been put under three regimes, “Concession Agreement,” “Issuing an Authorization,” “Declaration Agreement,” while 15

Tax on Gaming & Entertainment: Direct 16.5% turnover to be paid before 15th monthly.

the Sports betting segment, Casino, and lotteries fall under the Concession agreement regime.

That will be signed by the Ministry in charge of games of chance. The promoter, after getting the confirmation from the Games Regulation Agency. The duration of the concession agreement is ten years and renewable under specific conditions.

Cost and Tax Starting gambling Business in Cameroon Tax regulations for land-based gambling business, just like every other business, games of chance and entertainment pay taxes to the state and councils. The fee shall be paid by either a person

or corporate body that operates a gambling business in Cameroon as a primary or a secondary activity. It can be for winnings in cash or fee meant purely for entertainment gambling.

Tax required for casino, betting and lottery Gaming Operators will have to pay for Corporate Tax Direct 33% minimum of 5.5% or 2.2% of the turnover profits to be paid on before the 15th of every month. For the previous month, the balance is before March 15 yearly.

Excise Duties on Gaming: Indirect 0.03 for 0.68 Ticket price+ VAT to be paid before the 15th monthly.

Special Tax on Revenue: The interested gaming company will pay Direct tax 15% revenue management fees paid to a foreign consultant to be paid before the 15th of every month/once annually. The interested party must have submitted a bank guarantee certificate of at least XAF 20,000,000 for category A and XAF 10,000,000 for type B. It usually takes 90 days from the date of reception to issue a concession agreement interested company or reject. The cost of a license is 700,000FCFA. However, there are other fees required to pay during the license procedures. However, Cameroon’s tax administration has put in place specific tax legislation for those operating casinos in Cameroon.

According to the provisions, the game proceeds include counterpart games and club games for casino operators, which the tax base comprises of all gross proceeds from the games and the tax on winnings. The operator is obliged to keep accounting records for each type of casino game. The terms defined by regulation. The tax rate that is applied is 15% on turnover made during the tax period. As said above, the tax base comprises all gross proceeds and tax on winnings. This rate applied to all forms of gambling in the country.

The fee shall be deducted to obtain the taxable income. It won’t be exclusive of other taxes but specific to this sector’s operators but paid to the Council area where they carry out their activities. n

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Gambling

as a Career Opportunity Most people would quickly dismiss the fact that gambling can be a career where one engages full-time. That notwithstanding, there are many people who have successfully made gambling a full-time career, including one person that is a high profiler known as Dan Bilzerian, who has greatly taken to gambling as a career, although he still has some other ventures that generate income for him. Another high profile name is that of Mathew Benham, the owner of two football clubs called Brentford and Midtjylland.

Peter Situma

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owever, before you start thinking of the fancies that are associated with being successful in a gambling career, it is of essence that you consider and seriously weigh the benefits and the constraints that are related to it. In that case, what are the negative issues associated with gambling?

The Cons of Gambling as a Career • As a result of the nature of the activities that are involved in gambling as a career, one may find that they are exposed to various forms of vices. If one is not good at maintaining their discipline, it is likely that they may find themselves engaging in habits that are immoral.

• In some circles, one would need to live with some form of social stigma, as many people would like to be close with people who have successfully engaged in gambling as a career. However, very few would feel comfortable to introduce themselves as “professional gamblers” to other 18

people. It does not matter the nature of gathering, as in most cases one would be forced to seek other ways of describing themselves in such instances.

• Success in gambling as a career is heavily geared towards the caprices of the institution offering a gambling platform. If one is a gambler who engages offline, chances are they may be moving all the time as a way of seeking conditions that would be the most suitable for gambling.

Extremes would involve moving all the time within a very limited period. Success can be seriously hampered by one change of rule to the game. For example, a ban on online gambling may imply that one cannot easily get a heads up poker game to be part of very early in the morning if they are gambling offline.

• One may get themselves into a personal conflict depending

on their structure of beliefs.

This is always the case where the religious beliefs of a person do not allow them to gamble.

Such an internal conflict may be unfulfilling and may make one sad, and in the end they may also be unsuccessful in life.

• Finally, when compared to many other economic engagements, the chances of a person failing are higher. A glance around at gamblers, one would see that they are not successful, and in most cases they may not get a chance of being happy later in life.

The Positives of gambling as a career • Gambling allows you to have more time for many other activities that may be of great essence. If you wish to have more time with family members or spend more doing gardening

work, then a career in gambling would be the best platform for having all that time for those things.

• Being a professional gambler can make you as a celebrity within a short time. Though it may not be compared to stars in the A-list, but with social media word can move around very fast. What all that takes is simply one winning that is very huge, and one may become very famous.

• As a professional gambler, you may develop resilience mentally considering that it is a venture where you have to do critical evaluations and analyses regarding the best situations to place wagers on. That can also be helpful in other life ventures and spheres, including when engaging in business.

• Gambling can help you make connections that you may have 19

never had. Gambling tables are platforms where one can meet the high profilers in the world. It is then up to you as an individual to decide how they will affect your life from then.

• Gambling can make you be a global traveler. For instance, when dealing with poker, most of the competitions take place all over the world. In that case, you may get a chance of being a globe trotter while making lots of money, a combination that many people would die for.

• Gambling can make you secure a robust financial future for family and dependents. For instance, big winnings in the form of Jackpots can give you enough money to last a life time, meaning that you can also help the people that are around you.

From the pros and cons, it is clear that pro-gambling is a venture where you may have to come up with a balance between getting 20

rewarded and the associated risks.

It is of great essence that you have an understanding of the odds available as a way of making informed and wise decisions. If you still have the belief that what you possess is enough to venture in pro-gambling as a career, it is still crucial to know a few more things Gambling is not all about being lucky As opposed to the common opinion around, you may need something more than being lucky to be a successful pro gambler. The best gamblers are also the best strategists as that increases their opportunities of being the best in the business. It is based on this that many people who engage in gambling are always calm when they find themselves in a streak of losses as they know that they may recover all that they have lost, for as long as they stay true to their strategy. They always strongly believe in what they are doing, as they groove in such a way as to

indicate that they are in control of the situation.

You need to venture in more skillful games Some online mobile games that are free like bingo and simple casinos are nice for getting your feet wet, it is crucial to engage in games that are more skillful and demanding. Some of the best arenas for this include sports betting and pokers. For instance, you may ask yourself the reason as to why so many pro-gamblers place their focus on poker. The probability of being successful for a long time is high considering that it is dependent on your skills in comparison with those of your opponent to get the results. Being in a competition where you engage players directly as opposed to being in a casino makes you have a better chance at success when venturing in pro-gambling. You also have the option of choosing the people to play against as opponents. If there is a table with players who are

strong, you can still decide to have one where the players are weaker. All you need is having an edge over the opponents.

Making money as a Pro-gambler is not as easy as you think Money-making as a gambler is a feasible project but one of the hardest things to do. It is a venture where you need to be better than the opponents, where you maximize on the winnings and minimize on the losses. It is also crucial that you get enough practice when dealing with skills development before starting a serious gambling career. It is advisable that you do not simply jump in after quitting a job that you may have, as consistent success should be the only indicator for you to start a fulltime career in gambling.

Do not gamble without a “Plan B” It is essential to know what your overall aim is before embarking in any gambling session. As a gambler, you ought to know at what stage you are supposed to give up, or the stage that you may have to take your winnings and leave instead of re-investing. These are some of the issues that you need to be versed in as you engage in gambling as a career.

Do not go on a “revenge gambling mission” Such a case of revenge gambling is where you angrily chase after what you have lost. Doing this implies that one abandons a strategy while also throwing caution to the wind. In most cases, the sessions may end a disaster for you. If you dream of becoming a millionaire by accident, it is essential that that you make a serious re-evaluation of your position as a pro-gambler. n 21

How betting Companies are

Dominating Africa

It is no secret that betting on sports has developed an unprecedented form of popularity in Kenya and many other countries in Africa, making the gambling industry an area worth investing within the job market of the continent. The increase in the number of betting sites can be attributed to the fact that the level of internet penetration in the continent has increased, while the introduction of mobile-based money services have given the sector an added advantage.

Peter Situma

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ome specific countries in Africa, like Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya have in the latest times experienced a surge in the number of betting companies.

When looking at Nigeria alone for instance, there is an estimated revenue generation of about $30 million from betting, while in Kenya the amount may get well over $25 million.

Wagering on sporting activities is in many ways taking over Africa.

There is no more enjoying sports the old way, as currently the trend is on enjoying it by making money out of it, or lose the same. In the respective countries that include Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria, the size of the market that offers wagering opportunities was estimated to be worth about $37 billion as of the end of the year 2018, according to a report on the 2014 Gambling Expectation that was conducted and revealed by Price Water House Coopers.

Most Appealing Despite the fact that the continent is still regarded and viewed as one

with a lot of inadequacies, including having 24% of her population living in abject poverty, the continent has transpired into one of the most attractive and appealing gambling markets in the world, especially when considering sports betting activities. Betting companies operate in such a way that they provide betting platforms online. Punters can then easily get sporting related information on a daily basis from the websites for as long as they have an internet connection. After that, they proceed by publishing funds that they can use of wagering against their most preferred activities in sports.

The same also helps the company to determine the best sporting activity that it can rely on for the generation of revenue.

Those who are supportive of sports betting claim that this is a business that takes advantage of thousands of African youngsters. Similarly, they also indicate that the sector supplies them with easy and quick money for many people, especially those who do not make much with regards to earning a living, the government generates revenue through the collection of tax from the punters and the betting companies, besides being an addition 23

to the development and growth of the economy of the continent in general. While they could be stating some truths with these claims, those who are against the idea do not believe that it is that helpful.

It is also clear that many Kenyans and other Africans are investing a lot of their money in betting on the various websites. For example, if one uses the public means of transport within Nairobi Kenya, there are high chances that the young persons seated on the next seat is busy placing a wager in one of the websites. It is a trend that may not likely come to an end any time sooner. It is also the main explanation as to why most betting businesses from all over the world are converging and concentrating their businesses in Africa.

800,000 Youths First and foremost, as a continent, Africa has the largest number of people who are below the age of 35. For example, for those who are between the ages of 15 and 24 are 24

more than 200 million. In Kenya, those who are less than 35 years constitute 80% of the total population. Within the same country, 800,000 young adults get into the job market, all of who are always enthusiastic that they will get a job opportunity. However, the rate of unemployment is also high among this age group, as it stands at 35% compared to 10% that is the overall percentage for the country.

These are the people that many betting companies target for their money as their sites provide with them numerous opportunities of making quick money.

Something else that needs to be considered is the fact that there is a large fan-base of football in Africa, as most people are followers of football from Europe, including the English, Spanish, German, Italian, and French leagues. From that fact, betting companies see numerous opportunities with regards to introducing betting platforms for the Africans, as they would virtually bet on any of these

games that take place within these leagues.

By 2050, it is expected that the population in Africa will increase immensely, which will also translate into having the largest population of people that are below the age of 35 years. If the rate of unemployment continues as it is, most of them at that time will still be underemployed or unemployed, and as such, they may still turn to easier means of making money. In such a case, they may turn to sports betting as it is an area that one can easily make a lot of money after staking as little as $1.

A high chance of addiction Cigarettes and alcohol are products that are consumed on a daily basis as they have huge sales.

Both of them have something in common with betting on sports, and it is that they are all addictive.

The biggest way that sports betting is attractive is the fact that it has a high proposition value,

where one can use almost nothing in wagering and in the end win a lot of cash. Given its value proposition and the potential exponential benefits, there is no surprise with how it is an addictive venture for many people in Africa, despite that most of them are also poor.

It is addictive to the extent that when they do not have money to use for staking, they go to an extent of borrowing.

Weak laws on sports betting In the United States and in most European countries, online betting laws are very strict to an extent that betting companies are always under pressure. It is as such that most of them venture into Africa where many countries have laws that are somehow lax.

Except for South Africa and probably Kenya in recent times, betting laws in many other countries in Africa are not as strict as in US and Europe, as regulation is still relatively poor. This lax ecosystem with regards to regulation is harmful to the customers, but it also acts as an attractive incentive for many companies both locally and internationally to penetrate the African market. However, it is also worth mentioning that many Muslim countries and the Gambia in Africa have completely banned or placed very stringent rules on betting, thereby stopping the vice completely or ensuring that it is on the very minimal.

It is also crucial to mention the fact that internet penetration is a contributing factor as many areas in the continent are slowly getting internet coverage. This is also possible as mobile phones are increasing the penetration, and as such many betting companies are

partnering with operators of mobile phones to have their products linked mainly with mobile money service, including Airtel Money, M-Pesa, and Orange Money. The most interesting bit about this is the fact that it is not a must that one has internet to bet, as one can also bet using USSD codes or SMS, hence making it easier to pay and participate.

How Sports betting Business makes money The business of sports betting is more on the basis of probabilities and odds. In most instances, people place their wagers depending on common opinion, feeling of the gut, research, or by simply relying on luck. After every bet, there are two kinds of people that exist; the winners and the losers. Handling those who have lost is easy, as they simply get nothing. However, handling the winners means that the business has to make a lot of money from those who lose to the extent that they can pay the winners, while also getting some commission in the form of profit. Accomplishing this is through using a mixture of numbers and strategy in such a way that they come up

with odds that will ensure there is enough income from losers to make profits and pay the winners, something that is quite interesting.

Betting can either make or break an individual. That is why every gamer must be cautious of this industry. In case luck knocks at your door, you could walk away richer.

On the contrary, you could drain your fortunes in a single click of the button. The choice is all with you because you can choose to make wagers carefully and practice safe betting practices. n

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E W KE A G M AYIN L P RDS A C

– tradition and Italian design are synonymous with perfection Dal Negro is an Italian company that produces playing cards, tarot cards, divination cards, chess, backgammon, roulette wheels, and toys for children.

The company has its registered office, from 2002, in Carbonera in the Treviso area.

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OVER A CENTURY OF HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT

TEODOMIRO DAL NEGRO Fabbrica carte da gioco SRL P.zza Cavarzerani 9, Carbonera (TV) www.dalnegro.com

The History of Dal Negro The origins of Dal Negro are in a small Austrian-owned company that started to produce playing cards in 1756. Located in Treviso, Italy they produced their cards for more than 170 years until in 1928. The Austrian Empire has

been defeated in World War I and had owned the old playing cards factory. It was given to the current Dal Negro family to repay a business debt owed to them by the Austrians since before the war.

Dal Negro grasped the opportu-

nity and using new technological techniques and improvements in manufacturing process and efficiencies gradually became the renowned world leader in the production of quality and regional playing cards. They also started to produce gaming boxes, Backgam27

mon sets and other items with the same high quality and attention to detail.

The improved technical processes and swift business grown soon caused Dal Negro to look for larger premises, and the company moved from its original factory in Piazza Tommasini to a location in Viale F.lli Bandiera, Treviso in the North East of Italy. Shortly afterwards the main plant was moved to Via Brigata Marche.

As part of its growth strategy, Dal Negro moved into its new headquarters located in Piazza Cavarzerani at Carbonera di Treviso in June 2002. Dal Negro purchased rights to the NTP brand in 2004 and in 2003 they bought Masenghini, a historical playing card company born in 1878. Dal Negro is still a genuine family-run company - the current owner and CEO is Franco Dal Negro.

Dal Negro Today Dal Negro is located in a region called The Veneto, a plain that stretches from the Venice coast towards the mountains. Treviso is a small pleasant medieval city with the city walls still in existence. The Dal Negro factory is at an industrial park a few miles north of Treviso.

At their main Dal Negro production plant, manufacturing is carried out with high-tech machinery in an environment that conforms to stringent energy saving regulations and better than standard health and safety protection.

While being an extremely modern, environmentally friendly and wellrun factory, there is still an aura of history and of artisanship and craft ever-present in the background.

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Dal Negro operates with over 60 employees in premises that cover 15,000 square meters. It also makes use of some ten external workshops, and has over forty sales agents operating in Italy and abroad. Company sales are currently around 15 million Euro.

Playing cards are still the main business of the Dal Negro for traditional markets and casinos. Chess, chess boards, backgammon sets, roulettes, mats and toys for boys are also now a major business and Dal Negro also license Walt Disney games and act as a distributor.

Facts and figures and the company today With 16,000 square meters of production area and offices, 57 employees, 32 agents worldwide, Dal Negro is currently a world leader in the industry with a range of over 1,500 articles available to buy online and in all the best stores. A vast catalogue representing the production of playing cards and traditional products in wood, a full range of games for babies, boys and girls, including travel games, educational games, games of skill and strategy, outdoor games and games for families and groups. n

The gambling machine

among other milestone inventions At the turn of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries many projects, more or less significant for civilization’s development, were implemented. As an example – the cinematograph constructed by the Lumière brothers, the radio, created in controversial circumstances or the Orville and Wilbur Wright plane, powered by an internal combustion engine.

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H

owever, many of those meaningful innovations seem to be omitted, left in the shadows of other discoveries from the period which contributed more visibly to socio-economic changes around the world.

Along with dynamic development of technology, new possibilities rose up in almost every aspect of life; possibilities that not only allowed the improvements of already existing inventions, but also helped to implement the projects from scratch. Most of the time they were the result of many years of observation and analysis and allowed to take another important step in the process of raising all the standards.

For instance, this was the case with compression-ignition engine, patented by Rudolf Diesel, which contributed to the improvement of transport or the cinematographic camera, created by William K. Dickson, which is a crucial invention for the entire entertainment industry.

Those are the inventions that opened the door to a completely different, better dimension for 30

the local industry and economy.

They also accelerated the progress of various sectors, like aforementioned entertainment sector, pushing aside other important projects that emerged later on. And even though the world from the beginning of the 20th century underestimated many remarkable concepts, today many of them due to changes over the last hundred years have grown to the rank of breakthrough discoveries of the period.

Ideal example of the aforementioned process is the gambling machine, whos history of origin is quite blurry. Underrated at first, the invention, along with the growing technological possibilities, was dynamically changing in order to adapt to the needs and expectations of its recipients. It completely remodelled gambling, known to the mankind for millennia, and after several decades from the emergence of its first copies it begun to

influence the global economy and society. Evolution of the gambling machine continues for centuries.

The end of the 19th century- the beginning of a new gambling era.

In 1891 in New York, Sittman and Pitt introduced the first ever gambling machine, call the Poker Machine, in which the game play was based mostly on the rules of the well-known game of poker. Four years later, on the West Coast of the United States, a Bavarian immigrant Charles Fey finalized his original design of a gambling device called Liberty Bell. It took him a little less than a decade. Over time, the invention morphed into different, more advanced forms and oficially became prototype of a gambling machine as we know today.

For the next years the idea started

by Fey gained popularity and the machines could be seen around almost every corner. Gambling machine hype kept growing because of more and more interesting solutions that attracted crowds of players. It wasn’t until the mid-twentieth century that mechanical gambling machines reached a critical point; their potential seemed to be drained out, and new designs didn’t meet the needs of the market. This dead-end was omitted thanks to a technology that allowed to design and produce electromechanical machines - Money Honey by Bally.

Because of this stage of its unusual evolution, the slot machine has become a synonym of gambling and a showcase of the world’s largest casinos.

The machines started appearing on all the continents and when they reached the status of fully electron-

ic devices and took a form of video lotteries, it seemed that nothing could stop their global expansion.

Unfortunately, unprofitable payout percentage, toxic environment linked with a growing number of addictions to gambling and expansion of gray areas in many countries resulted in firm responses from the governments. They answered with restrictive regulations; they required certain levels of financial solvency of the machines, their technological compliance with legal regulations and complete transparency of casino operations.

Chance, previously considered an essential element of the entertainment, has become a source of many problems.

Law versus technology.

Initially, machines were simple devices. For example design of Operators Bell was based on mechanical structures of cylinders decorated with few symbols; a player was setting them in motion by pulling a lever on the machines side. Every version of gambling machines that followed was improved with some new elements or attributes. After the introduction of a fully electronic gambling machine onto the market, opportunity to create various combinations and bonuses, along with an option to raise the stakes and to introduce progressive Jackpot made the slots incredibly popular.

The profits generated by global gambling machine business were approaching the level previously known only in the largest sectors of the global industry.

From the very beginning of their existence, electronic gambling machines based on deterministic algorithms (algorithms which, given a particular input, will always produce the same output). In order

to remain randomized they had to depend on a special Pseudo-Random Number Generator (or PRNG) that allows the machine to create unpredictable sequence... in theory. Of course in reality generated combinations only seem random.

The solutions currently available on the market are using computers, which are by definition predictable as they operate on pre-determined sequences.

The entire industry can probably agree that the Pseudo-Random Number Generator played a crucial role in its development- it was a fundamental element that introduced randomness into the computations.

Over the course of several decades, since the introduction of Pseudo-Random Number Generators, there have been many changes in legal regulations concerning machines and their operating parameters. Technological changes were often dependent on those new regulations. Both huge amount of the gambling machines worldwide and (mostly) manipulations of software performed by their producers resulted in numerous government interventions in many countries.

Some reforms, for example in Poland or Ukraine, did not bring the expected results. On the contrary, they led to expansion of the gray areas and only increased the scale of the issue. Only amendments or complete transformations of legal regulations resulted in desired outcome, but their side effect was often a drastic limitation of number or complete elimination of smaller arcades.

New direction in development of the gambling machines The legal changes dramatically reduced demand for new gaming ma31

chines. In Poland, after monopolization of the industry and liquidation of hundreds of gaming machine points, many operators abandoned their activities and the market has shrunk to a minimum due to delays on the part of the State. The complete elimination of the gambling machine market development was, and is, not possible because of the activity of the big fish, but the regulations increasingly restricting the freedom of the markets have already contributed to the slowdown of the whole thing.

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the area of the Old Continent. And again it was the technology that turned out to be a key element for all recipients of the machines offered by Yumicra Games.

In case of Futura or Futura Eclipse we can even talk about a revolution in the sector, since those inventions completely changed the approach to the subject and the idea of gambling itself and ended a tough period the entire industry had to face.

Even though companies, more or less specialized in creating products for the gambling industry, conducted numerous estimates and delivered models with different characteristics to the markets, the main goal of the projects was far beyond the reach of the producers. Machines containing a chance element, mainly a Pseudo-Random Number Generator, despite their transparence, are still illegal and do not meet proper legal requirements. For example, according to the jurisdiction of the Polish courts all the machines being particularly challenging to the player are classified as games of chance. Thus, the initial attempts to modify the concept of the gambling machine came to naught.

Non-gambling slot machines are the only machines in the world without a Pseudo-Random Number Generator in their software.

This modification emerged as a response to the need of removal of a chance factor from the games.

The system used in the machine is based on a finite deterministic sequence, looped in the form of a ready-made cluster of results and repeats itself endlessly. Thus the machine using previously prepared combinations saved in a definite order doesn’t need a generator and the results of the game are not really random. With the ability to calculate any stage of the game, including the first, before the start of the competition, each participant has full control over the game. Machines with such characteristics fit perfectly into any legal regulations on all continents.

When it seemed that numerous changes in regulations would slow down the evolution of the gambling machine, uninterrupted for over hundred years, a frail light appeared in the tunnel- light that later turned out to be a clear signal to act. At the end of 2017 Futura, the first non-gambling slot machine, created with a view to global gambling, was released. The invention hit European markets first and then, step-by-step, went beyond

What comes next?

Over the course a century since the creation of the first machine, the gambling world has experienced a multitude of dynamic developments. For example, the slot machine itself has come a long way from a minor invention to the most important symbol of modern gambling. Changes in design or transformation into a different, completely electronic device did not overshadow and will probably

never cover the idea of its creation.

No matter how it is perceived, the slot machine was always supposed to color the gray reality and its purpose was only to entertain.

Even though the formal struggle between the owners of the gambling machines and governments in many countries of the world has intensified, it turns out that it is impossible to stop the development of something so important to industry and civilization.

There is one latest, most reasonable and most effective trend- production of slot machines universal for all the markets. That will allow operators from all over the world to continue their activities and will give players a real chance to gain actual winnings. It seems that non-gambling slot machines, player-friendly and lacking the chance element like PRNG, are the next step of the gambling machine development.

Until now, solutions that met the needs of markets around the world have remained popular for many, many years. Non-gambling machines, such as Futura or Futura Eclipse, are on the right track to achieve such timeless status. n

GLI – history a global gaming

machine certification company If you are a new supplier of equipment for the gambling industry looking to create a product and do not know where to start, do not leave your actions to chance.

Are you looking for information on where to start and how to start the assessment and certification process? Need help with the approval process?

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G

aming Laboratories International® (GLI) can help just that. This research laboratory has specialized in the highest quality tests and certifications around the world for 30 years, the team of employees is focused on providing its customers with the highest quality services that can help them achieve future success. As for the quality of workmanship and testing of the entrusted devices, nothing should be left to chance. GLI was founded in 1989 in the USA and since then the company has approved over 1,775,470 gaming items and consulted or tested the hardware in over 475 jurisdictions.

Below we present a brief history of this most famous laboratory eval34

uating gaming devices worldwide creation: • June 23rd, 1989 – James Maida joined forces with Paul Magno to form Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) with its global headquarters in Toms River, NJ. • 1989 – GLI obtained a machine testing agreement with the state of South Dakota to help oversee and implement the first structured video lottery system in the United States.

• 1990 – GLI expanded its test role to include Indian casinos and river boat gaming devices in the United States.

• 1994 – With the development of games in the South Pacific, GLI founded Gaming Laborato-

ries Australia in Adelaide, South Australia. To allow additional capacity in Australia, GLI established a second Australian office in Sydney, NSW in 1998. The establishment of these overseas laboratories allowed GLI to benefit from a 24-hour working day and allowed data exchange between the American continent and the Asia / Pacific region.

• 1996 – GLI established a third international laboratory located in Pretoria, South Africa, in collaboration with its then joint venture partner, the South African Standards Bureau (SABS).

This international location was primarily responsible for testing machines for use in South Africa.

• 1998 – GLI established the

fourth international laboratory for the opening of GLI Europe BV in the Netherlands. The laboratory has almost doubled and has been accredited in accordance with EN 45004 and the international quality standards ISO 17020 and ISO 17025.

• 1998 – GLI established the Special Projects Department to meet the needs of its non-gaming customers. The special projects department tests and reviews devices such as vending machines, redemption games, keno and bingo systems as well as table entertainment games • 2001 – GLI opens the Las Vegas Service Center, an 18,000 square foot laboratory equipped with protocol and systems testing. Since opening the Las Vegas Service Center GLI has received a very positive response from the gaming industry, offering system and game testing from virtually every manufacturer in the world.

• 2003 – The Las Vegas Service Center successfully completed its second year of ticket testing for the Nevada Gaming Control Board.

• 2004 – GLI opens its eighth laboratory in Bologna, Italy. The main purpose of this establishment was to meet the needs of the newly emerging Italian jurisdiction. GLI Italia has obtained ISO 17025 accreditation by the Dutch accreditation agency RVA. The GSA Board of Directors has once again approved the GLI as the official operations center for self-testing of devices by GSA members.

• 2006 – A2LA, the largest multidisciplinary accreditation body in the United States and the second largest in the world, conducted GLI test facility assessments in North America. Upon

completion of their assessment, GLI was accredited to ISO 17025 to demonstrate technical competence in laboratory testing and to ISO 17020 to demonstrate technical competence to conduct field inspections. This achievement made GLI the first and only gaming organization in the United States to receive both accreditations.

• 2007 – The company opened two new global laboratories.

GLI Asia, based in Macau, China, serves the booming markets of Macau and Asia. GLI Austria was founded when GLI entered into a partnership with SMI. The new company has significantly expanded its service capabilities.

• 2008 – GLI Europe BV received full approval from the UK Gambling Commission to test all categories of equipment. GLI Europe BV previously held interim approval pending full assessment and accreditation against ISO 17025, which included the newly established standards.

GLI established the “Totalizator System” division to provide testing and auditing services for animal racing regulators. In 2008 and 2009, the GLI Totalizator System department tested the totalizer systems in ten locations in Texas

and Iowa. This effort provided GLI with experience in testing the top three suppliers of totalizer systems.

• 2010 – GLI Australia has integrated into GLI’s global filing process, establishing a complete strategy with a new common database to help suppliers rapidly enter the global marketplace.

• 2011 – GLI Australia and GLI Europe become the acclaimed testing lab of the Casino Regulatory Authority of Singapore, expanding the company’s relationship with the authority that began in 2009. GLI Asia has expanded its testing services to include lotteries. In 2011, GLI Asia carried out many high-profile lottery projects in China, South Korea and Taiwan, and GLI staff specialized in lottery dispute resolution across the region.

The company has released the latest in its extensive range of exclusive tools, GLI Mobile®. The mobile app gives access to GLIAccess®, a powerful GLI database 24/7, where the regulator and supplier can track and revoke data transfers and receive instant updates. The industry recognizes the technology immediately, and GLI Mobile is one of the most in35

novative technologies of the year.

GLI Europe and GLI Austria became the first laboratories of this kind authorized to test casino and street gaming equipment and conduct field inspections for the same equipment in Poland.

• 2012 – GLI hired an additional 100 employees, increasing its global workforce from 650 to 750, increasing its service capacity in response to increased service demands.

The company opened a GLI Espana near Barcelona to serve the rapidly growing land and gaming markets in Spain.

GLI was appointed an associate member of Cibelae and the European Lottery, and at the same time received a Nevada certification from Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval for GLI’s innovation and entrepreneurship that helped drive Nevada’s economy and job creation.

• 2013 – GLI has released a key update to the “GLI-19 Interactive Gaming Systems” technical standard. The new GLI-19 2.0 release introduces key updates that address the unique technical aspects of North America’s gambling markets. The standard was immediately adopted by the Delaware State Lottery.

Colorado Division of Gaming renews GLI Colorado’s research laboratory certification and certified supplier status.

• 2014 – GLI accounts 25 years of service for regulators, suppliers and operators in the gaming industry. From one office with two employees, the company 36

has grown to 21 offices on six continents and has over 850 employees.

The GLI has appointed an authority issuing game device test reports for the jurisdiction of Slovenia by the Slovenian Ministry of Finance.

• 2015 – GLI extends the scope of audit services to include the World Lottery Association (WLASCS) and ISO 27001 security control standards for information security management in Europe and Africa.

All members of the GLI quality management system (including the United States, Canada, Italy, South Africa and Australia) have successfully completed the ISO 17025 Lead Auditor Certification Examination.

With this acquisition, SLI Global Solutions and GLI form one of the largest software testing and quality assurance organizations worldwide.

• 2016 – GLI is accredited in the Czech Republic, becoming the first international gaming laboratory to achieve this honor. This achievement further increases the company’s activity throughout Europe and allows the company to provide assistance to the Czech Ministry of Finance and the Games Council.

GLI Europe B.V. moved from its original office in Hillegom to Haarlem in the Netherlands, expanding the infrastructure and enabling the office to pursue a strategy of excellent customer service and regional commitment. In 2016, GLI achieved an amazing milestone – the company tested and certified

2.5 million slot machines, devices and gaming systems.

GLI becomes the first international computer games laboratory to obtain licenses for class II systems in Romania, which further increased GLI’s activity across Europe and enabled the company to assist the Romanian ONJN (Oficiul National pentru Jocuri de Noroc).

GLI issues an iGaming white papers highlighting security threats and the importance of internal and external controls.

• 2017 – GLI Group acquired NMi Metrology & Gaming Ltd. and related gaming assets (“NMi Gaming”) from NMi Certin, B.V. and related entities.

GLI has been authorized by the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) as the designated testing lab for the state of Michigan.

This development story represents a period of more than 25 years of work and confidence-building in their valuations and opinions issued to game developers and regulators around the world. GLI is the largest and most recognizable appraiser in this field, approvals and certificates issued by GLI are recognized all over the world and are not subject to discussion. Using the experience and history of people employed at GLI means that the machines and devices subject to the valuation have the highest degree of correctness, and the final GLI certificate proves this clearly and unambiguously.

GLI has branches all over the world, and also has a representative office in Uganda. n

Gambling in Nigeria Nigeria is one of the biggest country in Africa with a huge gambling industry.

Although various gambling authorities, laws and policies were already in place (including the Casino Taxation Act of 1965, the Lagos State Lotto Authority, a Lotteries and Pools Betting Law), gambling across the nation was largely unregulated. The Gaming Machines (Prohibition) Act of 1977 even made the import and owning of gaming machines (slots) illegal in Nigeria, with the sole exception of licensed casinos.

Fahad Luizburg „A sports betting specialist with extensive knowledge of the gambling industry in Uganda, privately the father of a large family.”

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here are 3 forms of gambling legal in Nigeria, lottery, sports betting, and casino gambling (as long as it involves some skill, not just luck).

These 3 forms of gambling can be played in land-based casinos in Nigeria.

The first law issued about gambling was the Gaming Machines Act of 1977, which outlawed importing or owning any gaming machines without a gambling license.

Possibly the most important law about gambling in Nigeria is issued in 1990 as part of the Criminal Code Act. In this act, the Nigerian government defines what counts as illegal or legal in gambling. They outlawed roulette, dice games (except backgammon), non-skill based card games, chacha and cowries and any other games of chance which are purely based on luck. However, these games exist in many offshore online casinos, where Nigerian players are still welcome.

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However, the country’s gambling landscape began to change in the late 1990s, with the passing of new policies and laws to better govern and regulate gambling in Nigeria. These included the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999), Taxes and Levies Act (1998), Casino and Gaming Law of Lagos State (2004), the National Lottery Regulatory Commis-

sion (2007). These new laws and polices also paved the way for the privatization of certain gambling sectors in the nation. In addition, as internet and mobile technology has become more widely available in Nigeria, so has online and mobile gaming. The result is that post 2000, gambling in the nation is split into 5 categories which are (from biggest to smallest) bet-

ting, lottery, promotions, slots and pools.

THE GAMBLING LEGISLATION AND REGULATIONS IN NIGERIA Citing chapter 22 of the Criminal Code Act (1990), the Nigerian government has defined legal and illegal forms of gambling. Legal forms include betting, lotteries, racing, pools and selected casino games (including slots, Blackjack and Roulette). Illegal forms include non-skill based card games and other “games of chance” considered unfavourable to players.

Nigeria’s various gambling laws are applicable to gambling operators and players, although the penalties and punishments for operators are far more serious. In addition to the Criminal Code Act, there are various other gambling laws that govern the operation of gaming machines in Nigeria. Currently none of Nigeria’s gambling laws are pro-online casinos (online betting, yes). This means it is illegal to own or operate online casinos within the country. That said, there is little the government can do to stop citizens from playing at offshore online casinos (which accept Nigerians), including those featured right here on this site To attain a gambling license in Nigeria, operators must be approved by the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML), and the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP).

Some operators are also required to secure a Capital Importation Certificate, and liaise with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)

to get a Tax Identification Number and register for Value Added Tax (VAT).

Bear in mind, however, that only games that comply with Section 57 of the nation’s National Lottery Act (2005) can be offered legally, which include lotteries, sports betting / pools and bricks and mortar casinos. According to the Act, a “lottery” or “lotteries” includes any game, scheme, agreement, system, plan, promotional competition or device for the distribution of prizes by lot or chance, or as a result of the exercise of skill and chance or based on the outcome or sporting events, or any other game, scheme, agreement, system, plan, competition or device, the President may by notice in the Gazette declare to be lottery and which shall be operated according to a license. Many lotteries in Nigeria are licensed by the Lagos State Lotteries board, which regulates gaming firms that run lotteries and/or games of chance, which include public lotteries,

sports betting, interactive games, scratch card games and promotions / competitions.

TYPES OF GAMBLING IN NIGERIA 1. LOTTERIES Nigerians love their lotto draws which is why the nation has a number of licensed and regulated lottery operators. The National Lottery Act of 2004 began regulating a national online lottery game, Lotto Nigeria. The aim of the Nigerian National Lottery is to raise funds for the development of National Sports and other good causes for the nation. To play the Nigerian Lotto you must pick 6 numbers between 1 and 49. Predict the winning numbers and you’ll win the jackpot. Predict 3,4 or 5 correct numbers and you’ll win the corresponding pay-out. The addition of Quick Lotto, another nationwide online lottery, is a Nigerian initiative with daily/weekly lotto draws and instant scratch games. These comprise daily Quick 5 lotto draws 39

and a weekly Mega Hammer draw.

With the rise of smartphone usage in Nigeria, players can now enter lotto games using their phones.

A few of the most recognized lotteries in Nigeria include: GAB LOTTO This firm has point of sale (POS) terminals in shops and outlets throughout Nigeria. You can buy tickets for its fixed odds lottery a shot at winning large jackpots. Its games comprise Banker, Three (3) Direct (NAP3), Two Sure (NAP2) and Permutation. Gab Lotto works closely with federal and state lottery boards to ensure transparency and responsible play is practiced in the lottery industry.

ANAMBRA STATE GAMING COMPANY Launched in 2016 as a joint venture between the Anambra State Government and Global Gaming Co. Ltd, the ASGC is the official gaming operator of Nigeria’s Anambra state. It operates state lotteries, sports betting, raffle, pools, slots, casinos and various other gaming offerings.

SUPERIOR GAMES LTD This Nigerian gaming company is licensed under the Lagos State Lotteries Law 2004, and regulated by the Lagos State Lotteries Board. It has two main brands - Big Games and Superior Bet. Big Games consists of 3 fixed odds lottery games: Super Games, Mega Millions and Global Games, while Superior Bet allows punters to bet on various sports, including virtual dog and horse racing, and tennis, basketball and football matches.

SPORTS BETTING COMPANIES IN NIGERIA 40

Like many other countries, Nigeria has a rich betting culture as droves of Nigerians bet regularly on sports, particularly the nation’s national sport, football. Because of Nigeria’s tumultuous political history, only in the last decade or so has the West African nation begun to embrace sports betting in its various forms. For instance, Nigeria’s first sportsbook was only registered around 2007, and since then the pastime has exploded. In 2014, for instance, reports emerged that Nigerians - predominantly punters aged between 18 and 40 - were spending a staggering N1.8 billion on sport betting every day, and that figure is even higher today. In fact, it’s thought that over 60 million Nigerians partake in betting. That equates to just over a third of the country’s entire population, and today that figure has risen due mainly to the massive growth of the internet. As of 2015, more than half of its citizens had access to the internet, and where you find the internet, you’ll find online sportsbooks.

A new generation of Nigerian sports betting fans were fast discovering the ease, convenience and speed of online bookmakers - both Nigerian and international.

Where once they had to trek to a betting shop or kiosk, now their computer or smart device has become the kiosk.

In fact, online bookmakers have changed the face of sports betting in Nigeria forever. While many punters still prefer shops, many others have become loyal to betting websites as they are plentiful, safe and easy to join and use. Plus they offer competitive odds and betting lines. Thanks to our trusty team of reviewers, below you’ll find the best Nigerian sports-

books. Each is licensed, regulated and reputable, and crammed with betting markets - including many for Nigerian sports, as well as a host of generous sign up and reload bonus offers and free bets: BEST SPORTSBETTING / BOOKMARKERS IN NIGERIA 1. BETWAY 2. 10BET 3. BET9JA 4. MYBET 5. NAIRABET 6. PINNACLE NIGERIAN LAND BETTING SHOPS / KIOSKS You’ll find a host of sports betting shop operators / agents in Nigeria, including the four below which are extremely reputable and popular: 1. 9JaPredict As one of the largest and most successful land sports betting platforms in Nigeria, 9jaPredict has many agents across the nation that process all types of sports and other bets. Agents for this Nigerian betting company require a space in a busy area as well as printing and computer equipment, staff and fast internet connectivity.

2. GOLDEN BETS A popular Nigerian land bookmaker, this firm specializes in fixed odds betting as well as a choice of other gambling games. Golden Bets agents require good sports knowledge, access to betting fans, a connection to the internet, and computer and ticket-printing equipment. All bets are processed via the Golden Bets site.

3. MERRYBET This is of one the most recognizable and reliable land bookmakers in the nation, with shops and

kiosks throughout the country.

Agents can adapt their own retail spaces or arrange for a branded kiosk from Merrybet. That and the required printing, internet and computer equipment allows them to process high levels of bets.

4. SUPABETS A kiosk, shop, office or sports bar in a busy area and a security deposit of N20,000 qualifies operators to become a Supabets agent.

That, plus a bank of laptops or PCs, a thermal printer, a fast and reliable internet connection, a barcode scanner and a special virtual horse and dog racing decoder gets the betting kiosk up and running.

The biggest advantage of land Nigerian betting shops is that they are more social than online sportsbooks because they let you personally interact with the shop staff as well as your fellow punters.

Many betting fans feel the atmosphere found in kiosks and shops is unrivalled.

NIGERIAN ONLINE BETTING SITES There are many worthy Nigerian-based online sportsbooks to choose from. They’re specially geared to Nigerians by offering a host of betting lines, and they allow deposits, wagers and cash outs in Naira, the local currency.

Here are some of the best: 1. NAIRABET This is one of the most popular internet bookmakers in Nigeria, with its huge selection of local and global sports and events to bet on. These include football, darts, snooker, mixed martial arts, American football and many others. It also offers in-play betting, virtual and casino games, and a generous 100% bonus on accumulator bets.

2. NAIJABET This is one of Nigeria’s most popular online sports betting sites and for good reason - it’s a ‘one stop Nigerian online gambling shop.’

Over and above its vast range of domestic and global sports betting markets , this Naira-based sportsbook also offers live betting (inplay betting), pools betting, casino games and even virtual gaming facilities.

3. 360BET This Nigerian online sportsbook is renowned for its generous odds, and huge platter of global football markets. For instance, you can bet on club football from Argentina to Japan, Nigeria to South Africa and every other football nation in between. It also offers dynamic live betting, airtime betting, virtual football and virtual racing.

4. SUREBET247 This is rock solid Nigerian online sportsbook that offers punters a great choice of domestic and international sports markets and lines, highly competitive odds, coupled with a stable and reliable platform catered especially to users of computers and smart devices. This Nigerian sportsbook is trusted by thousands of online punters.

OFFSHORE ONLINE SPORTSBOOK THAT WELCOMES NIGERIANS Not all international bookmakers online accept Nigerians, but many of the best do. This is great news for Nigerian punters because it means they can access many of the world’s best betting sites, including: 1. WILLIAM HILL Nigerians can access premier land

and online sportsbook William Hill on their computers or smart devices. Launched in 1934, William Hill is still one of the most popular sportsbooks in the UK, Europe and farther afield, including Nigeria. Its sports lines are unrivalled, and it offers live in-play betting plus bold welcome bonuses.

2. BET365 Launched in the UK in 2000, bet365 has the distinction of being a privately owned gambling company that has grown into one of the largest in Europe. With an array of sports and other betting markets from all over the world, it is a great betting site for Nigerians seeking fast, reliable and competi41

tive odds and wagering action.

3. UNIBET Based in Sweden, Unibet was founded in 1997 and has evolved into a betting force across most of Europe and beyond. With a staff of almost 1000, this Nigerian-friendly sports betting site is reported to have over 9 million registered users who can access its lines and markets 24/7 via their computers and/or smart mobile devices.

4. BETFRED Founded in England in 1967 by Fred Done, BetFred is a highly successful land and online sports betting operation. Complementing its more than 1000 betting shops across the UK is its online site that offers all manner of sports and various other betting markets, and caters to avid punters all over the world - including those in Nigeria.

NOTE: The biggest advantage of offshore online betting sites that accept players from Nigeria is that most are long-established and thus highly trustworthy. This 42

means that their reputations are beyond compare, as are their offerings, odds, facilities and levels of service and reliability.

CASINO GAMBLING IN NIGERIA Officially licenced casinos are legal in Nigeria and despite the Gaming Machines act of 1977, they can operate slots and other gaming machines. There are many operating casinos in the country, the most are located in Lagos. The most notable casinos in Nigeria are the Federal Palace Casino and the Le Meridien Eko Hotel and Casino, both located in Lagos. Online gambling is not regulated, offshore casinos accept players from Nigeria. Nigeria has three premier land-based casinos where you’ll find a selection of slots and table games to help you while away the time. Two of them are located in the capital Lagos, and one in the city of Abuja.

BACKGROUND ON NIGERIAN LAND CASINO Given Nigeria’s somewhat turbu-

lent past, it is unsurprising that its land casino industry is fairly new, having been established as recently as 1999. Despite gaining its independence from the United Kingdom in 1960, Nigeria’s fragile new coalition government only lasted six years before a violent and bloody civil war broke out, which raged from 1967 to 1970. Between 1970 and 1999, Nigeria was ruled with an iron fist by series of military dictators, few of whom had the country or its citizens’ best interests at heart.

It was only just before the new millennium that democracy finally reigned in the country, which paved the way for reforms, including the amendment and addition of various gambling laws and Acts. Although Nigeria has 36 states, to date only two of them are home to licensed land casinos - Lagos and Abuja. It is puzzling why more land casinos have not been established in other states, but it likely has something to do with the fact that in most parts of Nigeria, lottery games and sports betting and pools still reign supreme as the gambling types of choice.

LAND CASINO GAMBLING LAWS IN NIGERIA Because there is no specific or sole gambling act in Nigeria that determines and dictates the status of gambling as a whole in the West African nation, one must look to various Acts that specify what constitutes permitted and non-permitted land casino games and practices. For instance, Chapter 22 of the Criminal Code Act (implemented in 1999) specifies that “unlawful” games include Roulette, dice games (with the exception of backgammon), card games that don’t require skill,

chacha and other cowries (shell) games. Presumably, any games that do not fall under this category must be permitted in land casinos in Nigeria. The Act goes on to say that any person caught operating a common (unlawful) gaming house is guilty of a misdemeanour and is liable for a one thousand naira fine and/or two years in prison. This includes of making/accepting bets on the outcome of races, fights, games, sports, matches or exercises.

NIGERIAN CASINO RESORTS AND HOTELS At the time of writing, the Nigerian Government has only licensed three casino / hotel resorts, which are the Federal Palace Hotel and Casino, the Le Meridien Eko Hotel & Suites and the Transcorp Hilton Abuja.

1. FEDERAL PALACE HOTEL AND CASINO Owned and operated by hotel and casino giant Sun International, this premier 5-star Victoria Island casino resort with 10 categories of rooms is the place to go in Lagos for both local and visiting gambling fans. In its tastefully decked out casino, you’ll find 106 state-of-the-art slot machines to choose from, as well as a Blackjack, Hold’Em Poker and American Roulette tables. Slots are available 24/7 while table games are available 19h00 to 04h00, Monday to Sunday. If you’re a Sun International Most Valued Guest (MVG) cardholder, you’ll be able to enjoy a slew of regular and generous casino promotions. If you’re a gambling novice, however, you can take advantage of Federal Palace Casino’s Learners’ Night, where you’ll be instructed on casino game rules, tips, etiquette and

even strategies to increase your chances and skill levels.

2. LE MERIDIEN EKO HOTEL AND SUITES Located on the picturesque and elite Victoria Island, Le Meridien Eko Hotel & Suites is one of THE places to be seen in Lagos, which is why it is often frequented by the who’s who of the city. Adjacent to the hotel, which comprises 600 rooms with 8 restaurants and bars, and close to the massive convention centre (which is reportedly the largest of its kind in Nigeria), is the casino which is open from 10am daily, and boasts a plush and welcoming décor. It features 17 exciting poker and table games, all of which you can play in Nigeria’s own Naira currency. The casino is staffed by a host of friendly, efficient and professional dealers, croupiers and waiting staff, all of whom speak English. They have been specially trained to make your Nigerian land gambling experience as easy, comfortable and entertaining as possible.

3. TRANSCORP HILTON ABUJA Part of the renowned Hilton Casino dynasty, this 600-room hotel is widely considered to be one of the gems of the accommodation landscape in Abuja, the esteemed capital of Nigeria. Located near the centre of the city, the hotel is a fitting and elegant add-on to the city, and one that attracts a large number of tourists and locals each year. Part of the reason for this is its elegant casino, which has a small but entertaining pick of games. These include 40 gaming (slot) machines and 9 table games (Blackjack and Roulette), all of which are manned by friendly and professional dealers who are all fluent in English.

MOBILE GAMING IN NIGERIA These days most reputable online casinos have mobile versions which are pretty much identical in every way except they offer fewer games. What this means is that most Nigerian-friendly online casinos have mobile counterparts that can also be accessed and enjoyed by Nigerian virtual casino fans. Most of our recommended online casinos that accept players from Nigeria are mobile-friendly and are thus accessible by the main mobile operators in the country, including MTN. All you need to access and play at Nigerian-friendly mobile online casinos is a late model smart phone or device like a tablet, fast and secure internet connectivity (via Wi-Fi, 4G, 3G or LTE) and the means and method to fund your online casino account quickly and securely. Because most mobile online casinos have web-based HTML5 games, you can play them from anywhere in Nigeria (that has mobile and internet access) on pretty much any make or model of device regardless of its operating system (Android, Apple iOS or Windows) for the ultimate in gaming privacy, flexibility and convenience.

ILLEGAL GAMBLING IN NIGERIA There are a number of illegal gambling houses spread throughout the country, from unlicensed slot machines to underground casinos. However, under these circumstances if you were to lose your playing funds or winnings suspiciously, there is no recourse, which is why you’re better off sticking to licensed casinos and betting operations n 43

• Monkeys can learn to use the money. Capuchins that were taught to exchange silver discs for treats began budgeting for foods they liked, buying more of something when the price dropped and started gambling.

Eventually, rich monkeys even figured out they could pay each other for sex.

• Gambling for cash is illegal in Japan. Instead, balls won from games are exchanged for prizes or tokens. These items are then exchanged for cash at a place nominally separate from the parlor.

• A gambler named Archie Karas went to Las Vegas with $50, gambled it up to $40 million over the next two years, only to lose it all in three weeks.

• The sandwich was supposedly invented by the Earl of Sandwich, who was so addicted to gambling that he refused to leave the table for meals and demanded something he could eat with one hand. It caught on amongst other players, who ordered “the same as sandwich” thus, “the sandwich”.

• “Hell on Wheels” was originally used to describe the itinerant collection of flimsily assembled gambling houses, dance halls, saloons, and brothels that followed the army of Union Pa-

cific railroad workers westward as they constructed the First Transcontinental Railroad in 1860s North America.

• Iranian tennis showman Mansour Bahrami fled to France where he tried to meet the higher living costs by gambling all his savings in a casino. He lost everything on the first night.

• Because gambling is illegal in South Carolina, beach tourists have the option to pay companies to take them into international waters (outside state jurisdiction) via boat in order to gamble.

• The first slot-type machine was invented in 1891, but was very different than the machines we know today. The game was based off of poker hands, and players would pay a nickel and pull a lever which would spin five

‘drums’ (reels) that contained 50 card faces. Payout on successful spins was not dependent on the machine, but rather the bar that owned it. Prizes could be whatever bar owners wanted it to be, such as a free beer for getting a pair or cigars for a royal flush.

• You may notice in baccarat and some other the games the “shoe” that is used to store cards. This concept was thought up in Cuba in the 1950s by casino owners who suspected that their dealers were helping out players in exchange for tips.

Having the shoe, plus increasing the number of decks used, cut down dealer cheating and increased the house’s profit.

• Roulette is also known as “The Devil’s Game”. The primary reason behind it being called the devil’s game is that all the numbers (0 to 36) present on the wheel sum up to 666, which is famously known as the devil’s number or the “number of beast”.

• Back in 3,000 BC, dice cubes were uncovered from Egyptian tombs. It is believed Egyptians enjoyed playing Backgammon-type games and gambling was already part of daily life during that time, as was in Mesopotamia.

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Online sports betting market

is the future and the future is here!!

Chairman Betland – Dotun Ajegbile, have an interview session with Adeleye Awakan regarding Betland as a brand in Nigeria, background, the goal and what’s install in the coming years and being one of the legend in the sports betting scene in Nigeria.

T

he name Dotun Ajegbile is legendary to the Nigerian sports betting landscape as his pioneering work during the early days of Sports Betting in Nigeria along with a few other visionaries was the foundation on which the present day success of the sport betting industry rest upon. Betland as a brand is registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria (CAC); was originally launched in 2013 but stopped operations in 2015 due to internal management issues. Betland is officially licensed by the Lagos State Lotteries Board (LSLB) to engage in the business of Sports Betting in the state.

The New Betland was officially launched November, 2019 and from that period till date has been a better alternative to punters with its exciting products and Omni-Channel platform that caters to the need and yearnings of all customers bridging the links across all market segmentations.

Adeleye Awakan: The suspension of major sports leagues in Europe as upended the gambling industry, especially sportsbook operators, due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the restriction of movement in previous

months. From a business perspective, what impact did it has on company sales?

Dotun Ajegbile: The COVID-19 Pandemic sure has a negative impact on the sport betting market in Nigeria especially on the day to day retail operations of the brand as it affect Shops Retail Operations; most sport betting shops were on lock down and as a result of this, much emphasis was placed on Online Markets.

The introduction of Online Virtual Gaming Experience such as Simulated Virtual Reality Football Leagues; La Liga, EPL, Serie A, UEFA Champions and Europa League, Virtual Sports and Online Casinos further promotes Betland online market reach to many active and newly registered online customers as a result of this forthright thinking market innovations and it helped stabilized the brand operation and gave room for continuity of the day to day business activities as far as promoting and selling the brand markets are concerned to our teeming customers far and near during the COVID-19 pandemic total lockdown of movement of people and trading activities at the popu-

lar traditional trading and working environment.

Adeleye Awakan: The ease lockdown in Nigeria and resumption of some major sports leagues in Europe, how has Betland reacted to this? And how as sales been like in comparison to when restriction of movement?

Dotun Ajegbile: The easing of the lockdown had a positive effect on Betland shops retail operations by increasing our daily sales turnover no doubt, and in the long run it has also enabled us to refocus our brand loyalty program towards all our loyal customers; online, shops and the punters alike.

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Adeleye Awakan: What is Betland doing to mitigate the effect of the Covid-19 crisis to remain afloat in business as we have often seen many companies are placing their workers on furlough? Why some is sacking even some are facing bankruptcy?

Dotun Ajegbile: At Betland, as a result of the COVID-19 experience, we have also re-strategized our business model by applying the 80-20 Rules; 80 percent of Betland’s brand awareness and marketing drive is geared towards Online Gaming Solutions and 20 percent to Shop Retail expansion policy. The future of the sport betting market lies in online gaming services and the future is here!

Adeleye Awakan: Marketing is one department betting companies have reduced in their budget due to the health crisis. Some brands have been doing continuous marketing to retain their customers that are dormant during the suspension of significant football leagues regarding this. What is Betland doing to keep its customers?

Dotun Ajegbile: At Betland, we are doing lot of promos online and in shops by using our Social Media handles and trading platform to engaged with our active and targeted customers to stay committed to Betland and also come onboard the Betland Train. We are also working on introducing customer’s affiliate programs that encourages every Betland customers becoming stakeholders and offering them tangible returns in promoting the “Betland Brand” to all and sundry, also we are working with major sport betting marketing brands such as Betgenius, Sportrader and others to come up 48

with highly innovative marketing solutions that are customer-centric using data analytics and AI to meet up with the yearnings and aspirations of all punters home and abroad.

players as an operator. Did Betland witness something of that nature?

While some say the shift to online is even close than first projected due to the health crisis, can you share your perspective on this?

Adeleye Awakan: Influencer marketing is the prevailing trend in Nigeria now in which several sportsbook brands have been going into agreement with the notable ambassador in Nigeria. Does Betland have any intention of going into this direction anytime soon or in the future?

Dotun Ajegbile: At Betland, we are a futuristic brand. From time to time we expense lot of resources on industry research and exploring the future of this industry especially here in Nigeria and beyond. Saying online market is the future of this business is stating the obvious. A reality that Betland had already foresaw some years back even before the advent of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and locked down.

Dotun Ajegbile: Influencer marketing has its own plus and minus as we are all aware, for us at Betland, our targeted Brand Ambassadors for now are our loyal customers; by leaving no stone unturned towards offering them the best of customer service, highly innovative products and market options, prompt settlement of winnings, highly effective customers loyalty program such as the Betland Affiliates Program; These marketing and promotional efforts guaranteed more returns than putting money in the pocket of one or two individual (Influencers) who has no passion for the brand, who doesn’t have a clue what the sport betting market is all about, that is not to say we are completely oblivion of what Influence Marketing can also bring to the table if per chance we are fortunate enough to cross path with an influencer’s of repute that ticks all the box, why not?

Adeleye Awakan: Perhaps some stakeholders, experts in the gambling industry, are projecting a shift for customers in Africa during the lockdown, especially betting online garner tremendous traction from

While our rival brands are focusing on web solutions, we are more interested in having an Omni-Channel Trading Platform that harmonize the best of both world; Web and Mobile Platform Technology for our users and customers alike.

We have already had a breakthrough in working with POS, Mobile Phone and Computers in servicing the need of all our customers at the touch of a button.

We are rolling out all these features any time soon. Betland is a winning brand in all ramification; little wonder we pride ourselves as the preferred Bet! Adeleye Awakan: There has been the issuance of license tussle in the last couple of years between the National Lottery Regulatory Board and Lagos State Lotteries Board on the position of where do you have the right to operate in the country.

Regarding this, the state government blocked specific companies from advertising in the Lagos. Because there don’t have a Lagos State gambling license, while the Federal license

issuance (NLRC) National Lottery Regulatory Commission made a press release to this said as long as you have (NLRC) license, you could advertise anywhere in Nigeria and operate. Some experts say Nigeria is the biggest loser if we don’t find a lasting solution to this. From your perspective as an operator, what do you think is the lasting solution to this menace between two regulatory boards?

Dotun Ajegbile: On licensing tussles between the NLRC and States Lottery Board; it is more of every government agencies wanting to have their own slice of the national cake (Sport Betting is the New Crude Oil).

For us at Betland, it is a challenge but not an obstacle towards achieving our corporate goals and objective in this industry. As a pioneering and active member of the ANB (Association of Nigeria Bookmakers) – We are engaging and working relentlessly with all stakeholders to make the business environment favorable to all parties in the short and long term such that it is a win-win situation for all stakeholders.

Adeleye Awakan: In recent years, several international betting brands have established themselves in the Nigerian gambling scene, offering online operations. Do you see them as a competitor since the shift to online is imminent in Africa? Share your opinion on this.

Dotun Ajegbile: Betland is not a docile brand, we are a very competitive brand. The business world today thrives on competition and any brand who is not ready to compete can as well just pack up and leave! Betland is here to compete

and win…. We are a winning brand!

Adeleye Awakan: in the next five years, where do you see the Betland brand in the Nigerian gaming Industry?

Dotun Ajegbile: Realistically in the next five years, we are targeting to become the leading sport betting brand in Nigeria and Africa – That’s the goal.

Adeleye Awakan: As one of the legend in sports betting business in Nigeria, what advice do you have for some investors out there that are interested in the Nigerian gambling market?

Dotun Ajegbile: As an investor, it helps more if you truly understands the basic concept of life and business development (Resources management and tapping

into business opportunities wise).

You have got to be passionate and stay committed to the goal of why you are in this business and be in sync with your corporate vision for the business.

It is a very profitable business venture but you have got to give it time to grow; usually between 2-5 years gestation period.

When you water the plant, surely it will grows – We are talking about a market of an estimated N2 Billion Naira Daily Turnover Market (2017 Nigeria Sport Betting Market Survey Report) There is enough to go round for every serious and goal oriented brand.

Lastly, it helps you more when you can partner with a winning brand, instead of starting your brand from scratch. n 49

East Africa Sees a Rise in E-Gaming

Globally, e-gaming is a phenomenon that is developing rapidly, and by the end of 2018, the amount of money that the sector generated totaled to US $125.4 billion, a sum that was 15% higher than that which was generated in the previous year. The Global Games Market Report also indicated that the number of gamers who were attracted within the sector stood at 190 million.

Peris Wambu

H

owever, within the east African region, the growth is becoming exponential, and one of the major contributing factors is the fact that the gaming ecosystem is one that is emerging, as it consists of communities of gamers and organizations, some of which include the Africa Game Developers Community. In the continent, it is the first of its kind 52

as it includes friends and developers of games, most of who have their roots in east Africa.

Africa Game Developers as a gaming community was an initiative that was started under Ludique Works, an organization that headed by Nathan Masyuko, Lillian Nduati, and Douglas Ogeto. The fact that it started in Jan-

uary 2018 did not limit its membership, as by mid the same year it had more than 150 members from over ten countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda, Ghana, Cameroon, Zambia, and many more. The main aim of the organization was to ensure that the games that are developed within Africa are commercialized more than how it happens.

In collaboration with Liquid Telecom, the community holds meetings on a monthly basis where some of the issues covered entail demos, talks, and the showcasing of various developed games.

Some of the games that the members have developed include Recce Squad and The Orchard from Kenya, and Kukulu from Ethiopia.

The developer of The Orchard, David Kamunyu, is one who taught himself the art of game developing. The game is meant for PCs, where one needs to engage with foresight and logic as means of restoring an old farm into being productive once again. The game is not clear-cut as one may think, as the player needs to make sure that they govern their general well-being that entails personal health, abide by the seasons of Kenya in such a way that they successfully grow crops and get yields from animals. The yields need to be taken to the market in a timely manner as a means of ensuring that one gets the most profits from the same, or also get money from elsewhere, as the intention is to ensure survival.

At the end of the year 2017, the game gained recognition in various events that are organized internationally, including A Maze that is hosted in Johannesburg South Africa, where the main intention is to have a showcase of alternative and independent games, and also virtual simulation. The other event was The Game Mixer as planned by the Goethe Institute in Johannesburg that was intended at the promotion of professional exchanges between developers of various games. David was also emergent among the top five best game developers with the platform referred to as Digital Lab Africa Competition.

Another rising star in the sector of game development is Kenyan CukiaKimani, a current student of Computer Science and Digital Arts from a university in Johannesburg.

In 2015, he was the winner of the Amaze award for the game that he developed with a colleague known as Ben Crooks called Boxer. The game was also part of a selection of various international awards that include the Utrecht Indigo of 2016, the 2016 edition of the Chicago Bit Bash, and the Birmingham Leftfield 2016 edition.

The Region is experiencing a Rise in Gaming Tournaments NAICCON 2017 was the first international multiplayer video game competition in Africa, where the number of participating teams using PC and consoles were 16, emanating from Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. More than 3500 inventive minds were attracted, most of which came from the comic book, animation, and gaming industries.

Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, also experienced the largest pool of prizes, as it received Ksh. 1 million in the second edition of the gaming tournament that was created

by Pro Series Gaming, where one of the games that featured was Mortal Kombat XL.

At the same time, gaming using PCs is also shifting to theatres, where fans and supporters, newcomers and enthusiastic gamers are being offered with a platform where they can have viewership that is exemplary, not mentioning the fact that they are getting to use large LED screens accompanied with live commentary. As such, organizers are also getting a better source of making money, not forgetting the owners of the cinemas, and some of the agencies that rent out their sound and video equipment. The entire eco-system is a bee-hive of activities that has resulted in the creation of many job opportunities for various people and agencies, including people who deal with creating animations, music composers, modelers of various user interfaces, creators of sound effects, customers support employees, and many other positions. In all these David is mainly dealing in making sure that local music is assimilated into the game The Orchard, while also bringing on board local advertisers that include hotels and local clothing brands. The main intention is to promote the commercialization of the games with a feel that is African.

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engaging in gaming activities. In the year 2016, researchers from Oxford University found that the addictive nature of online gaming cannot be compared to that of gambling. In most cases, gamblers may not stop themselves from gambling once they start engaging in the vice, while online gamers are always engage in the games to an extent that they may forget that they have to engage in some other life activities.

Liquid Telecom leading in the promotion of E-Gaming As the industry is rapidly developing, Liquid Telecom has played a key role in the commercialization of e-gaming, with specific interest in games that are developed locally. The past four years have seen the company being the main sponsor of a gaming community from Uganda through the website www.gamersnights.com, where people engage in multiplayer gaming. The company has mainly supported in the form of hosting the gaming servers, besides providing internet connectivity, something that is crucial for the sake of having seamless online playing of video games.

Liquid Telecom is has also been the main partner in major regional online gaming activities, especially in the provision of internet connectivity as a way of ensuring 54

the experience is modern for the gamers. The main intention of providing such support is the fact that the management believes in the industry as one that can create many jobs for the youth, while also ensuring the region experiences infrastructural development and in the creation of content locally.

Despite all these positives, there are issues to worry about considering that there are problems that come in with a lot of online gaming. For instance, addiction is a major problem, as of June 2018 the World Health Organization (WHO) came up with the identification of gaming addiction as a mental disease, and as such there were plans for coming up with public health strategies for the same. The nature of dependence on the game is mainly driven by the fact that people abandon other duties for the sake of

The addiction can also be seen from a positive perspective, where professional gamers and talented enthusiasts spend most of their time in gaming, not for the wrong reasons, but rather as a means of earning a living.

Besides that, making a name for yourself in the gaming world is as essential as making money, as that is also a means of making connections of getting sponsorships with gaming companies that seek potential gamers to promote their products.

In that case, the fact that the internet infrastructure is one that is rapidly developing when compared to other regions in the continent means that East Africa is a region that is leading with regards to the development of Africa as an ecosystem of online gaming. The opinion that Africa is lagging behind with regards to online gaming is gradually becoming a powerhouse that will be the envy of many other industries globally.

With the spread of internet coverage increasing by the day, there is a possibility that the industry players will have to do more to provide the increasing number of enthusiasts with platforms where they can showcase their skills and create more content. n

Ghana Mobile Money

Penetration-Propel iGaming Betting In the past few years, mobile financial service’s phenomenal growth in subSaharan Africa has defied all expectations. The genesis of mobile money as been credit to the Fintech revolution. Its appeal quick adoption, initially in Kenya and now, in over 30 African countries, has primarily been due to its democratization of financial service. The digital transformation the region has been experiencing in the last few years has seen sectors such as the iGaming and the e-commerce boom in Africa.

Adeleye Awakan

G

hana is one of the countries in the region that is experiencing such a bang.

With a report published in 2019, According to iGaming Intelligence Specialist H2 Gambling Capital, the African online gambling market’s total value reached an estimated US996 million in 2019. It is showing continuous growth since the company started following 56

its value in 2012. However, the transformation of mobile money is evident in Ghana recently become the fastest mobile money market penetration in Africa, according to a World Bank report June 2019, with the total registered accounts increasing six-fold between 2012 and 2017. The country’s experience merchant fresh perspective on its digital transformation

demonstrates that technology can help modernize the financial system and support greater financial inclusion.

In Ghana, the proportion of those using mobile financial service are people poorly served by the traditional financial sector. The 2017 Global Findex database indicates that access to formal financial ser-

vices rose from 41% of adults in 2014 to 58% in 2017. These are primarily attributed to mobile accounts, with 20% of digital-wallet users being previously unbanked.

These now represent about 40% of all accounts holders compared to 13% in 2014. Still, mobile money rise, which many factors explain the rapid progress of mobile money use in Ghana. First, the healthy penetration rate of mobile phones, about 128% of the population, the widespread acceptance of mobile money services is standard, particularly in rural areas. Secondly, the popularization of sports betting is a mainstream culture of the average young Ghana population where betting using a mobile device as skyrocketed in recent years, especially during the lockdown caused by the outbreak of COVID-19, sees demand for online service increased.

One sector that benefited is the iGaming industry, where most gaming companies accept payment from mobile money merchants. Thus, this success can be said to the government’s reform put in place to capture the financial exclusion population and enable transactions between other mobile money services possible.

The reform 2015 e-Money Issuer Guidelines shifted to a more flexible approach that previously restricts gaming companies and non-bank actors. The new regulatory process sees new players in the provision of financial service.

More scope for experimentation, such as mobile network operators, took it to a greater height and created a framework adapted to users’ and operators’ needs.

the development of innovative payment technologies. According to the World Bank Economic update, the expansion of agent distribution network from around 6,000 agents in 2012 to more than 150,000 in the 2015-was key to unprecedented growth for sectors such as gaming companies that allow more cash-in and cash-out opportunities and overall convenience of using mobile money. In May 2018, Ghana launched one of Africa’s first interoperable systems, allowing transactions between different mobile telephone service providers. The interoperability payments reached $57 million by the end of March in 2019. By 2020 the vol-

ume of mobile money interoperability (MMI) transactions jumped over 444 percent in the first half of this year. Compared to the same period last year, especially during the lockdown in Ghana, according to the Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement Systems (GhIPSS) Half year performance report, MMI transactions from January to June stood at 13.8 million compared to 2.5 million recorded in the same period last year. The user adoption of mobile banking is also increasing, but has been limited by restricted merchant acceptance 2.7 million cards have been issued and 7.7 million transactions handled, representing 2% of Ghana’s GDP.

The Ghana authorities took other vital initiatives in supporting 57

Although most payments are immediately cashed out, 53% have residual value. Ghanaians have so far used mobile wallets principally for transferring money to a person (peer-to-peer).

In contrast, payments for other products and services such as gaming firms and e-commerce platforms, among others, according to Bank of Ghana data, the total value of all mobile money transactions reached $26 billion in 2017 compared to $6.5 billion in 2015. Consequently, the range of mobile-accessible goods and services has successfully expanded to the purchase

of mobile communication credits, payments to the online betting account, public service bills, and salaries. Thus, with the mobile money penetration and the surge in iGaming betting growth, especially during the country’s lockdown. In recent years, the Ghana Gaming Commission realize that a move to regulate the sector is paramount after seeing other neighboring West African countries like Nigeria. The success there has achieved seeing the number of gaming companies that have established iGaming operations. The potential revenue there could be derived from the sector.

Regarding this, the 2006 Act that regulates all forms of sports betting, casino gambling, and other related game of chance under the Gaming Commission in charge was formed under the Interior’s ministry. The 2006 Gaming Act 2006 (Act 721), the Act legalizes all forms of Games of Chance in Ghana except Lottery. The Act empowers the Commission to discharge its functions to acquire and hold any movable or immovable property and enter into contracts or other transactions. The gaming industry in Ghana was previously regulated under the Lotteries and Betting Act, 1960 (Act31), the football pools Authority Act 1961 (Act78), while the Gambling Machines Decree 1973 (NRCD 174) and Casino Licensing Decree 1975 (NRCD 320) until the Gaming Commission’s establishment.

Hence the Act did not address the unique iGaming betting in Ghana.

Even though this move to regulate iGaming has been in contention in recent years with several stakeholders advocating for change in the country’s gaming Act to cater for the proper regulation of the iGaming and gambling in Ghana.

Despite the shortcoming of the Ghana gaming Act, significant sports betting and casino companies have established their operations in the country, such as Betway, offering online service to meet the young Ghana population’s demands. In which the proportion of the population has access to mobile subscriptions coupled with mobile money acceptance has grown exponentially, and we can say the success so far is due to reforms to mobile money service in the country as proliferate iGaming betting and gambling in the country. n

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History of Blackjack,

the most popular casino game

Who of us, remembering the westerns - once a very popular movie genre, do not remember a wild west dives called saloons with inherent game tables, where skilled tricksters and naive ranchers wasted their time playing cards accompanied by whiskey glasses. Sometimes it was poker and sometimes it was Blackjack.

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his second card game, due to its specificity, made it easier to cheat. Whether it was cards hidden in the sleeve or an ace tossed up or so called overlay, each such “skill” made a trail of bodies. Soon after, the place of saloons began to be taken over by casinos as a kind of place for fun and games. Casinos wanting to encourage more people to play, decided to create a special promotion. If someone hit a black ace and jack during the game, not only did he win the standard stake, but

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he could count on a special win.

Such a promotion made Blackjack suddenly one of the most important domains of American landbased casinos. Although the promotion was abolished after some time, the name became popular and the term Blackjack is used to this day.

When it comes to the origins of this game, it is difficult to precisely determine the place and time in which it was invented. However, there are several hypothe-

ses that often overlap. According to some of them, the beginning of Blackjack was the card game “chemin de fer” and “french ferme”.

These were two similar games by the combination of which another one was created. In some regions it was also called “vingtet-un”, which simply meant 21.

This game is today considered the ancestor of Blackjack. The Blackjack roots can also be found in several European card games, including the French “Vingt-Un” (21), “Trente et Quarente” as well as the Spanish “One and Thirty”, or the Italian “Baccara” otherwise known as “Seven and a Half”, which are similar to modern Blackjack. In Poland, it is known best as the 21 or “eye”.

When gambling was legalized in Nevada in 1934, Blackjack was offered as the game most commonly found with one or two cards. However, this was the beginning of the great triumph of this game. Many non-gamblers have noticed this game after the publication of Roger Baldwin’s article “Optimal Blackjack Strategy” from the American Statistic Association.

However, the real stir was caused

by Edward O. Thorp’s book entitled “Beat the Dealer: Strategy for the Game of Twenty-One”. Apart from statistical information and a description of the game itself, the book also presents the card counting method that had been used until now. It has been proven that you can consistently beat the dealer by “card counting”. At that time, computer experts such as IBM’s Julian Braun were running several computer game models programmed to be played by millions of hands. This also confirmed Thorp’s claim that the dealer could be beaten. After these publications, hysteria engulfed the gambling world, people started visiting casinos and masse to play this very game, which theoretically could be won by the player. The popularity of this work is also evidenced by the fact that it quickly jumped to the top of the New York Times bestseller list.

Casino owners tried to remedy this by introducing changes to the rules of the game, but faced such opposition from players that they had to abandon their actions. Their only weapon was to increase the number of decks in the game and thus make it difficult for players to count. And that was all they could do.

Technological changes brought the first electronic versions of Blackjack to computers at the end of the 20th century, and today this card game is present online in many casinos and gambling sites. When computers were put to the fight against casinos in the 1970s, the fun started.

An optimal game strategy was developed without the need to

count cards. Using this strategy allowed to reduce the house advantage to zero. If a player follows the basic strategy and makes no decisions in isolation, the theoretical return to player (RTP) for standard Blackjack rules is 99.63%. This is a very high return and will usually be the highest of any casino game both online and offline, so it’s no surprise that Blackjack is such a popular game.

However, even though the RTP in Blackjack is so high, the single win is small, with a maximum bet of 3: 2 (on a Blackjack hit).

Compared to slots, where players sometimes win several thousand times the amount staked, players rarely win large amounts in one session.

Of course, the basic strategy does not guarantee a sure win.

In fact, even if all guidelines are followed, the RTP will always be below 100%. It is extremely important to stick to this strategy even if there is a streak of worse results. Players who play according to the basic pattern in longterm settlement always come out better than players driven by instinct. Likewise, it is a common mistake to think that Basic Strategy should only be used on the first two cards - that’s not true. It

should be used when making any decision.

Blackjack played with one deck, in which the dealer does not draw on a “light 17”, and the doubling of the stake is available on each card, except for the split - guarantees an RTP of 100%. This means that the casino has no advantage over the player here.

Classic Blackjack consists of 4 decks, no side bets, the betting limit is between 1 and 3000 and the rest are normal rules (i.e. the dealer does not draw on all 17s, doubling is available on 9, 10 and 11). In this case, the basic strategy should be used and the only difference with this variant of Blackjack is that the player can play against other players - just like in a real casino. On public tables, up to 3 players can play simultaneously. However, this does not affect the basic strategy for either player. At these tables, one player may only play one hand.

Counting cards in blackjack is a type of strategy that assumes that when more high cards are left to deal than low cards, the mathematical advantage in play is temporarily with the player, not the casino. An experienced play-

er can recognize this situation by constantly observing the ratio of high cards to low cards. The player takes advantage of this moment by significantly increasing the amount of his stakes. In the event that the ratio of high and low cards is equal or there are relatively more low cards than high cards to be dealt (i.e. when the mathematical advantage in the game is on the casino’s side) - the player only places the minimum bets. This way, in the long run, the player’s winnings will be higher than the losses, giving the player a statistical advantage over the casino. The card counting players use the basic strategy, often with minor changes depending on the change in the so-called true value.

ing Blackjack he came out richer by over four million dollars. Over the next few months, he made an unpleasant surprise to the owners of Borgata Casino, winning around five million dollars over three visits.

From the players who have made their reputation for beating Blackjack casinos the most famous is Don Johnson from the USA. Johnson’s amazing streak began in December 2010 at Ceasars Casino in Atlantic City, from where after a few hours of play-

The series culminated in an incredible 12-hour game at Tropicana Casino in Spring 2011, during which the former Oregon jockey earned nearly six million bucks. In the hottest part of the game, the dealer would start the next hand every minute! And al-

though a crowd of anxious onlookers gasped behind Don’s back, glued to the glass pane separating the professional tables from the public room, he remained calm. Neither the scantily clad waitresses nor the bars of tokens piled up in front of him disturbed him. He won $ 1.2 million in three consecutive hands!

When he reached $ 5.8 million, the casino managers ran out of patience and - what a lack of upbringing - he was asked to leave the premises. Earlier, a similar situation had happened to him in Borgata and Ceasars.

It is not surprising - Don’s lucky streak meant that the Tropicana casino closed the month in the red for the first time in its history, and its boss lost his job!

Currently, we have the opportunity to play Blackjack both with the computer and in more and more casinos using live rooms, which are a combination of a standard casino table with electronics. This game is still the most popular in casinos around the world, players take an unequal battle with the casino hoping for success. Maybe someone will repeat Don’s feat? n

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