GAMING
NOVOMATIC AFRICA LAUNCHES LOCAL ASSEMBLY FOR PANTHER LPMS, DRIVING INNOVATION AND GROWTH
NOVOMATIC AFRICA LAUNCHES LOCAL ASSEMBLY FOR PANTHER LPMS, DRIVING INNOVATION AND GROWTH
Funding Shortfall and Surging Demand Drive Financial Strain at Responsible Gambling Foundation
PEERMONT AND SUN INTERNATIONAL WALK AWAY FROM ACQUISITION DEAL
InsaGames Launches with UltraLite, High-Performance Gaming Solutions for Emerging Markets
Gold Rush Consortium
Awarded R180bn South African Lottery Licence
HABANERO’S STRATEGIC VISION FOR IGAMING GROWTH IN AFRICA
Publisher & Editor
Roy Bannister
Associate Publisher Luke Bannister
Executive Publisher Ingrid Keulder
Editor-at-Large
Bill Healey
ACCOUNTS & Administration
Fax: 086 648 1634
Email: afrogame@mweb.co.za
PUBLISHER & Advertising
Headstart Productions P.O.Box 607 Langebaan 7357
Fax: 086 648 1634
Cell: 082-468-8622
e-mail: afrogame@mweb.co.za
LAYOUT AND DESIGN
Nicole Cook
Email: nicole.graphicd@gmail.com
PRINTED BY
Headstart Productions
GAMING FOR AFRICA is a bi-monthly magazine focused on casino operators and the manufacturing sector of the African gaming industry. We publish informed comment, and cover developments in legislation, new products, marketing and sales, promotions and general casino resort tourism trends in Africa Information published in GAMING FOR AFRICA or views or opinions expressed by writers are their own and not necessarily endorsed by the owner, publisher or editor of GAMING FOR AFRICA. While reasonable care is taken to report on events and occurrences in an accurate manner, we cannot accept any responsibility for inconveniences arising from misinformation. We welcome unsolicited articles and photographs but cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage. Press releases are published in good faith and the publishers assume that information provided is correct.
Gaming for Africa is a trade publication aimed at the b2b casino and gaming industry in South Africa and across the African continent where legalized gambling is permitted. As such all advertising and editorial in this publication is aimed at professionals within the gambling industry, and not the general gambling public. Gaming for Africa endorses and promotes responsible gambling and proudly subscribes to the aims and initiatives of the legalized gambling industry thorugh the National Responsible Gambling Programme. National Responsible Gambling Counselling Line – 0800 006 008
South Africa’s gambling and entertainment landscape has been shaken recently by two high-stakes developments, both revealing the tension between commercial ambition and regulatory realities.
The collapse of Sun International’s R7.3 billion acquisition of Peermont stands out as a stark reminder of how bureaucracy can override boardroom intent. What was poised to be a seismic consolidation in the casino and hospitality space has been undone, not by a lack of strategic alignment, but by a missed deadline from the Competition Tribunal. While ‘deal fatigue’ and regulatory delays are cited as mutual reasons for termination, it may be seen in the context of online growth eclipsing land-based performance, and with a new-online industry CEO, Sun International shareholders may be more than happy not to bring on any more land-based operations.
At the same time, the announcement that the Gold Rush Consortium will take over the National Lottery has prompted intense scrutiny, not just because of the sheer scale of the R180 billion contract, but due to lingering questions around transparency and governance. With politically connected individuals at the helm, the new era of Lotto operations must prove that public trust won’t be a casualty of privatization.
Behind these headline deals, a quieter but arguably more pressing issue continues to grow: the financial fragility of the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF). Despite record income this year, the Foundation is grappling with an R18.3 million shortfall, and this at a time when calls for help have surged by over 1,400%. These figures are sobering. They reflect a growing human cost that accompanies the boom in gambling activity, and they raise tough questions about compliance within the industry and the long-term sustainability of harm-reduction efforts.
In this issue, we dive into these unfolding stories, examine the regulatory crossroads, and ask what responsible growth truly looks like in South Africa’s gambling ecosystem.
Roy Bannister
Sun International’s ambitious R7.3 billion acquisition of rival casino and hotel group Peermont has officially been terminated after the Competition Tribunal scheduled its hearing too late for the deal to proceed legally.
Sun International’s ambitious R7.3 billion acquisition of rival casino and hotel group Peermont has officially been terminated after the Competition Tribunal scheduled its hearing too late for the deal to proceed legally.
The Tribunal set the hearing date for 2 October 2025 - over two weeks after the deal’s 15 September longstop deadline - effectively derailing the transaction. Both parties confirmed the termination, citing regulatory delays and growing “deal fatigue.”
In a statement, Sun International said the long delay, coupled with the Tribunal’s inability to hear the matter before the deadline, left them with no choice but to abandon the acquisition. “Accordingly, as the hearing date is after the regulatory longstop date, the parties have mutually agreed to the immediate termination of the Proposed Transaction,” the company said. The Competition Tribunal’s approval was one of the final conditions precedent to the deal.
The Competition Commission, however, pushed back against claims that it was responsible for the delays. It said earlier hearing dates had
been available, including one in May 2025, but these were not utilised due to unresolved disputes between the parties over discovery documents. The Commission maintained that the drawn-out legal wrangling between Sun and Peermont contributed significantly to the hold-up.
Speaking to Business Report, Sun International CEO Ulrik Bengtsson acknowledged that protracted delays had worn down both organisations. “Deal fatigue had set in due to the time delay, and considering the impact this was having on both groups, it became a key factor for the termination,” he said. Bengtsson added that Sun International had made “multiple approaches” to the Tribunal to expedite the process and hold closing arguments before the deadline, but it had not been feasible given the Tribunal’s packed schedule.
The breakdown of the deal comes after 18 months of preparation. The proposed acquisition was first announced in February 2024, with a shareholder circular distributed the same month. The matter was formally referred to the Competition Tribunal
We are proud to announce that TCS John Huxley Africa has achieved a Level 1 BBBEE Contributor status.
“This milestone marks a significant step in our transformation journey. Having progressed from Level 3 in 2023, to Level 2 in 2024, and now to Level 1, we continue to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to meaningful transformation,” says Liza Wagner, Head of Operations for TCSJOHNHUXLEY Africa.
“This achievement is the result of focused effort, collaboration, and a shared vision across our team. It reflects our dedication to
building an inclusive, empowered future. For our customers, this recognition also offers substantial procurement benefits and supports their own empowerment goals. It further strengthens our position as a trusted and strategic partner delivering long-term value through inclusive growth.”
We remain committed to maintaining this level and building on this success in the years ahead.
in October 2024, but a full hearing would only have occurred a year later - a delay seen by many as emblematic of broader bottlenecks within South Africa’s competition regulatory framework.
This isn’t the first time the Competition Tribunal has been criticised for drawn-out processes. In recent years, deals such as Vodacom’s acquisition of fibre firm Maziv and Blue Label Telecoms’ move to take control of Cell C have also faced lengthy delays - sometimes exceeding nine months. While the Tribunal insists that 99% of mergers filed between April and December 2024 were handled within statutory timeframes, critics argue that high-profile and complex deals continue to face untenable delays that risk collapsing strategic transactions.
The collapse of the Sun-Peermont deal is likely to intensify scrutiny on the competition authorities’ capacity and procedures. It also marks a significant missed opportunity for consolidation in the South African hospitality and gaming industry, which continues to battle the effects of subdued consumer spending and a slow post-Covid recovery.
by Toni Karapetrov, Head of Corporate Communications for Habanero
Africa has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting and high-potential regions in the global iGaming landscape. With its rapidly growing mobile penetration, a youthful, tech-savvy population, and increasing regulatory maturity across key markets, the continent presents a dynamic opportunity for forward-thinking providers like Habanero.
Driven by a data-led approach, Habanero has identified Africa as a vital component of its long-term expansion strategy.
One of the defining characteristics of Africa’s iGaming market is its mobilefirst nature. Connectivity limitations and a wide variety of devices pose unique challenges, but Habanero has turned these into opportunities. Having operated in emerging markets for many years, the company has refined its game development process to deliver lightweight, fast-loading, and visually engaging content that performs well across all types of devices. This ensures that all players — regardless of connection speed or device capability — enjoy a consistent, high-quality experience.
Mobile optimisation is more than a technical requirement for Habanero; it’s central to how the company engages players and builds retention. Every game is
crafted with smaller screens and seamless performance in mind. But just as important as technical performance are the gameplay mechanics, bonus features, and user interfaces that enhance the player experience. Habanero’s aim is not only to make its games accessible but to ensure they are genuinely enjoyable and replayable — critical factors in a region where mobile is the dominant platform.
Understanding Africa’s complexity is also key. The continent is far from a monolithic market, and Habanero approaches each territory with a localised mindset. Localisation goes beyond simple language translation; it encompasses cultural nuance, regulatory compliance, and user preferences, from device types to design aesthetics. Working closely with local partners, Habanero adapts themes, adjusts features,
and meets compliance requirements to ensure relevance in each market. This flexibility and attention to detail are what enable the company to thrive across such a diverse landscape.
In a region that’s attracting increasing competition, Habanero stands out by focusing on quality over quantity. The company has always prioritised strategic, sustainable growth over rapid expansion. It consistently delivers premium content that resonates with both players and operators. Its commitment to polished, playable, and balanced games — combined with strong local partnerships and a deep understanding of market dynamics — has given Habanero a solid edge. By focusing on content players genuinely enjoy and trust, Habanero continues to carve out a meaningful presence in Africa’s growing iGaming ecosystem.
by Pramodh Munbodh – Legal and Compliance Director umAfrika Gaming Technologies
umAfrika Gaming Technologies (Pty) Ltd recently completed its annual BEE verification, conducted by verification agency EmpowerLogic (Pty) Ltd, and attained a BEE Level ONE Contributor status for the eighth time in ten years (It was Level TWO for two years). It was verified against the Amended Codes 2013 and 2019 for Large Enterprises (Generic).
The rating not only underscores the company’s commitment to the letter and spirit of BroadBased Black Economic Empowerment but also presents it as an attractive empowerment partner by enabling benefits to its customers’ BEE scorecard
via the procurement element of their scorecard.
South African organisations procuring from umAfrika can recognize benefits in terms of their BEE procurement scorecard.
Customers eager to partner with umAfrika
to enhance their BEE procurement scorecard by procuring from umAfrika Gaming Technologies may contact Pramodh Munbodh, Legal and Compliance Director, at pramodh.munbodh@umafrika.co.za for more information.
As the iGaming industry continues to boom, leading provider of innovative turnkey iGaming solution, VeliTech, has made a significant impact within months of entering South Africa. At the helm of this expansion into the country is Petro Magos.
Avisionary entrepreneur, with exceptional marketing acumen and decades of experience in the gaming sector, Magos brings a unique blend of strategic insight and industry flair to his role as the Regional Representative for VeliTech South Africa and CEO of PlayX1, the regional licensed distributor of VeliTech in South Africa.
“Joining VeliTech was a strategic and values-aligned decision,” Magos said. “There’s a growing demand in Africa for innovative, all-in-one platforms that offer CRM, games, payments, and data-driven marketing tools. VeliTech is purpose-built to meet this need.” Magos began his career in 1991 at the iconic Sun City resort, where he worked in marketing and completed an IMM diploma. During this time, he was immersed in the gaming sector, gaining invaluable and firsthand customer engagement insight, which provided him with knowledge that would prove invaluable throughout his career.
His entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch Magos Media, a full-service marketing agency that has served leading gaming clients across Southern Africa for over three decades, making the transition to iGaming a natural progression.
“What’s fascinating about South Africa’s gaming evolution is how we’ve balanced traditional casino experiences with cutting-
edge digital transformation,” Magos notes. “The market has matured significantly with local operators demanding world-class technology solutions,” said Magos.
Magos’s deep love for all things TECH distinguishes his strategic leadership. As the world grows and morphs into data-driven, digitally-coupled entity, Magos is inspired by opportunities presented and enhanced through innovation.
His tech-oriented mindset aligns perfectly with the VeliTech product philosophy, which integrates cutting-edge CRM tools, platformspecific games, AI and Machine Learning-tools, and seamless integration with payment and crypto gateways.
VeliTech is known for its powerful product suite, including VeliEDGE, a no-code CRM system tailored to player retention and behavioural tracking. Under Magos’s leadership, VeliTech SA is already powering notable platforms and is set to expand further into community-driven, localised content and payment integration solutions.
The entrance of VeliTech into the South African market at the beginning of 2025 has been nothing short of remarkable. The company’s Machine Learning-driven ecosystem is already demonstrating notable results for African operators, boasting 8x Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) growth and a 15% boost in Daily Active Users (DAU).
Leading brands like Choplife, and CASONGO have reaped the benefits of this iGaming infrastructure from VeliTech, which integrates over 30,000 games globally, 100+ sports betting options, and service to over 40 million users worldwide.
The company was recently recognised at the prestigious Sigma World Africa Awards 2025, where VeliTech claimed the title of Best Casino Provider.
As Regional Representative for VeliTech South Africa, Magos oversees the implementation of the company’s integrated suite of products, including a turnkey solution, VeliGames game aggregation, and VeliPlay (crash & instant game development studio).
Under his leadership, VeliTech SA has already built key relationships with notable operators and is set to expand further into community-driven, localised content and payment integration solutions.
Magos believes that success in the African market demands more than tech excellence; it requires genuine relationship building. “The human element continues to be irreplaceable,” Magos insists. “We’re not just deploying software; we’re helping operators connect meaningfully with their communities through responsible, innovative gaming experiences.”
With a deep respect for responsible gaming and a passion for innovation, Magos is poised to help shape the future of iGaming on the continent.
NOVOMATIC Africa proudly announces a major operational milestone: the local assembly of its popular Panther FV623D and FV624D Limited Payout Machines (LPMs) is now fully underway in South Africa.
This strategic development marks a critical step in the company’s commitment to regional growth, operational agility, and technological excellence.
The initiative was born out of post-pandemic global supply challenges, where machine delivery lead times were significant. To address this, NOVOMATIC Africa made the strategic decision to localize certain production capabilities—shortening timelines, reducing dependency on international shipments, and contributing to the local economy and empowerment.
Investing in Local Infrastructure and Capability At the helm of the project is Mohamed Abdullah, Technical & Operations Manager, who leads a team of highly skilled, internationally trained technical professionals.
After extensive planning and cross-border collaboration, NOVOMATIC Africa equipped a dedicated assembly area within its new Midrand facility. The space was enhanced with the necessary tooling, shelving, and safety systems to handle high-volume pre-assembly processes, including monitor and bill validator modules.
This ambitious three-year journey—culminating in
South Africa’s first locally assembled Panther LPMs— was not only a triumph of logistics and innovation but also a testament to human expertise, resilience, and visionary leadership.
To ensure full compliance and alignment with both NOVOMATIC AG (Austria) and local regulatory standards, the project included:
• Acquisition of an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
Safety Test Machine
• Establishment of robust quality control protocols
• Integration with the NAG central database
• Development of a structured pre-assembly line for key components
“Investing in people has been the most important part of this journey,” said Mohamed Abdullah. “Yes, we’re building machines. But more importantly, we’re building capability—equipping our team here in South Africa with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to meet global benchmarks.”
NOVOMATIC Africa’s investment in local production is more than a tactical solution—it’s a long-term strategic move aimed at strengthening the company’s footprint across the continent.
As demand continues to grow, the company remains focused on building a resilient, skilled local workforce and continuing its mission to deliver highquality, technically advanced gaming machines for Africa’s evolving gaming landscape.
TCSJohnHuxley has been awarded a gaming-related vendor licence by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The gaming products and services supplier is now authorised to provide its live gaming solutions to licensed commercial gaming operators across the country.
“We are absolutely delighted to have secured our GCGRA Gaming-Related Vendor licence,”
comments Tristan Sjöberg, TCSJohnHuxley executive chairman. “This is a testament to our long-standing commitment to compliance and innovation.
“The UAE represents a significant and exciting new market, and we look forward to a
long and successful future doing business here, contributing to the development of a world-class gaming industry.”
The company stated that, with its vision for a regulated commercial gaming sector, the presents “considerable opportunities.”
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InsaGames, a proudly South African-based iGaming start-up, today announces its official global launch, introducing a dynamic new offering to the international iGaming landscape. Specialising in the development and distribution of top-tier, data-efficient mobile gaming solutions, InsaGames is uniquely positioned to meet the specific needs of emerging markets — producing captivating content that creates real value for both operators and players.
With a focus on Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East, the company’s mobile-first, data-savvy technology allows players to enjoy premium quality entertainment without the burden of high data costs or the need for high-end devices.
Headquartered in Illovo, Johannesburg, InsaGames is powered by a cross-continental team that blends deep local insight with world-class technical expertise. This unique combination enables the company to achieve new standards in gameplay engagement, performance, and accessibility — all tailored to regions where bandwidth constraints and connectivity issues are common. With titles up to three times lighter than the industry average, InsaGames ensures its games remain responsive and engaging, especially in areas facing realworld challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and high data costs.
InsaGames launches with a robust portfolio of 13 ultra-lite Instant Games, spanning genres including crash, casino, slots, sports, casual, and number-based formats. This follows a successful soft launch and sustained rollout of its games with leading operators across 23 countries in Central and West Africa, as well as the Caribbean.
Most recently, a landmark partnership with OdiBets in Kenya marks InsaGames’ official entry into East Africa — with further launches underway across Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, eSwatini, Mozambique, and Lesotho.
“We saw a clear gap in the market for
games designed around the specific realities of emerging regions,” says Sanele Mopai, Head of Online at InsaGames. “Our products are mobile-first, ultra-lite, and fully optimised for players in markets where bandwidth and device limitations are a daily reality.
We’ve already seen 40% month-on-month growth in turnover across our live markets — a clear demonstration of the significant value we’re delivering to our partners.”
The East African launch with OdiBets Kenya marks a major milestone for InsaGames. “What impressed us most was the diversity of InsaGames’ portfolio and the intuitive, lightweight gameplay,” says Benedict Murithi, Head of Marketing at OdiBets. “Our priority is delivering seamless, high-quality entertainment to our players — and InsaGames has achieved exactly that.”
Looking ahead, InsaGames is set to continue its growth with a steady pipeline of new titles due for release next month. The company will also introduce integrated promotional tools — including jackpots, free spins, and cash drops — designed to incentivise players and operate effortlessly within its data-lite environment.
In a market where content is often retrofitted for new audiences, InsaGames takes a ground-up approach — prioritising local needs, player behaviour, and ease of play. Its in-house game studio also offers bespoke content creation, allowing operators to codevelop games tailored to reflect cultural nuance,
language preference and local relevance— offering partners a powerful tool to enhance engagement and long-term retention to secure market dominance.
By combining technical excellence with a deep understanding of local players and their on-the-ground realities, InsaGames has transformed common market inefficiencies into competitive advantages — helping operators differentiate themselves and deliver more competitive, mobile-first entertainment.
“Our localisation-first approach, backed by a highly skilled and experienced team, positions InsaGames as the Partner of Choice for operators looking to unlock new opportunities and drive growth in high-potential, underdeveloped markets,” says Mopai.
supply of cards from one to eight decks or can deliver composite hands of one or more cards in turn.
Not only is it simple to use and easy to maintain, it is unquestionably reliable and can be setup for all kinds of can easily increase game speed, hand rate, utilization and ultimately revenue from almost any casino card game.
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The award-winning, global iGaming technology provider SOFTSWISS leveraged its keynote platform at the opening of the recent Africa Tech Week to formalise its South African market ambitions, highlighting cybersecurity resilience as central to its strategy. Deputy CSO Artem Bychkov warned that with cyberattacks escalating alongside digital adoption, companies entering African markets must be builders – not just participants – in secure digital ecosystems.
Artem Bychkov, Deputy Chief Security Officer at SOFTSWISS, addressed delegates with a warning: Africa’s booming digital economy is being matched – and in some cases outpaced – by cybercriminal innovation. South Africa now ranks among the top three countries globally in cybercrime-related losses, with R2.2 billion lost annually. “As the continent becomes more connected and digitally empowered, so too does the cyber risk. But with the right architecture, we can build resilience from the ground up,” said Bychkov.
Bychkov spotlighted established as well as emerging threats – from malware-as-a-service and supply chain infiltration to deepfake-driven KYC fraud – and positioned SOFTSWISS as a company whose track record in technical stability and innovation is vital for the African market.
“Cybercriminals adapt fast. So must we,” he added. “There’s no substitute for a comprehensive security programme. People, processes, and technology must align under a long-term vision.”
SOFTSWISS has accelerated its African strategy, with enhanced adaptability for African operators. This strategy has already yielded acclaim: SOFTSWISS recently received the ‘Innovation of the Year’ award at the Sports Betting East Africa+ Summit – a recognition that its customisable solutions are both reliable and transformative, even in newly entered markets.
SOFTSWISS’ presence at Africa Tech Week underscores its ambitions to support Africa’s digital future not only through gaming platforms but also through a broader ecosystem of secure digital services. From device-level MFA and behavioural analytics to real-time monitoring and secure-bydesign development, the company is bringing global cybersecurity standards to the continent – and evolving them to meet local realities.
SOFTSWISS is an international technology company with over 15 years of experience in developing innovative solutions for the iGaming industry. SOFTSWISS complies with a number of gaming licences and provides comprehensive software for managing iGaming projects. The company’s product portfolio includes the Online
Casino Platform, the Game Aggregator with over 30,000 casino games, the Affilka Affiliate Platform, the Sportsbook Software and the Jackpot Aggregator. In 2013, SOFTSWISS revolutionised the industry by introducing the world’s first Bitcoinoptimised online casino solution. The expert team, based in Malta, Poland, and Georgia, counts over 2,000 employees.
Dragon Trio, one of Light & Wonder’s most exciting slot game releases, is rapidly gaining momentum across African markets. Combining engaging features, vibrant visuals, and a strong performance track record, the game is capturing both player interest and operator confidence.
Dragon Trio represents a new chapter in three-pot slot gaming. With a range of dynamic features such as Hold & Spin, Multiplying Wilds, Prize and Reel Expansion Boosts, and random prize drops, the game offers an immersive and rewarding player experience.
Its layered gameplay mechanics are crafted to sustain interest, delivering a balance of entertainment and anticipation that encourages extended time on device — a key driver in many gaming environments.
Feedback from operators across the continent has been overwhelmingly positive. In several cases, Dragon Trio has outperformed expectations and been prioritized over other popular titles based on direct player feedback and in-casino assessments.
While detailed performance metrics remain proprietary in some regions, the consistent increase in demand and planned installations indicate a strong reception across a variety of African properties.
The game’s success in Africa is closely tied to its alignment with regional player preferences. Features that offer perceived persistence, high volatility, and frequent win opportunities resonate particularly well. The game’s design, which includes appealing themes and broad denomination configurations, has proven effective in meeting the diverse expectations of local audiences.
Light & Wonder continues to collaborate closely with its partners on the ground, using player insights and operational feedback to ensure its products meet the specific needs of African gaming floors.
The footprint of Dragon Trio continues to grow across the continent, with new installations underway and additional markets being targeted for rollout. Its performance globally — including strong rankings in recent industry reports — only reinforces its value as a top-tier slot offering.
The game’s performance isn’t just regional — it’s global. According to the May 2025 Eilers & Krejcik report, Dragon Trio has been ranked:
• #4 among Top Indexing Core Games in Western Europe
• #5 among Top Indexing Core Games Overall
These rankings reflect the game’s ability to drive strong results and consistent player engagement across varied markets. Its recognition in this widely respected industry benchmark highlights Dragon Trio as a world-class product with significant international traction.
Operators looking to capitalize on this momentum are encouraged to connect with their Light & Wonder account executive or reach out to the regional sales team for further information and availability.
Blaze LED surface technology provides an exciting addition to any gaming floor. Available for Roulette, Sicbo, Money Wheel and now Craps, Blaze uses patented technology to deliver unique ‘attract sequences’ and custom-themed animations while also highlighting winning numbers.
Players instantly benefit from seeing winning numbers clearly highlighted and with the improved visibility of these sections gaming staff can easily monitor game procedures from a distance.
With a choice of single or double table configurations depending upon game-type and with acrylic or cloth layouts available, Blaze offers an array of options to meet any casino’s need.
Blaze Benefits
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Across major African betting markets like Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa, the vast majority of bettors are spending modest amounts -often under $10 per month - reflecting a culture of lowstakes, high-frequency gambling. However, data from Geopoll in 2025 also reveals the presence of a smaller but consistent segment of high-stakes players, with some individuals reporting monthly spends exceeding $500. This duality underscores both the accessibility and depth of Africa’s booming sports betting industry.
Average monthly spend by African Country
Ghana: Spending patterns show variety. 43% reported spending less than $10 monthly. 38% spend between $10 and $25. Smaller groups spend more: 9% between $25 and $50, 7% between $50 and $100, 4% between $100 and $500, and 1% reported spending over $500. This indicates common small-stake betting alongside a segment of high-stakes bettors.
Kenya: The majority (58%) reported spending less than $10 per month. Higher spending brackets included: 23% between $10 and $25, 7% between $25 and $50, 6% between $50 and $100, 5% between $100 and $500, and 3% spending over $500 monthly. This reflects predominant low-stake gambling but also a small group of high-stakes bettors.
Nigeria: In 2025, almost half of the
respondents (49%) spend les that $10, another 24% spend between $10 and $25. 10% of those who bet spend between $25 and $50, followed closely by 8% who spend between $50 and $100. 7% reportedly spend above $500 and a smaller 5% spending between $100 and $500.
South Africa: 48% reported spending spend between $10 and $25 and another 33% spend less than $10 per month. Higher spending includes 10% between $25 and $50, and another 4% between $50 and $100. 5% of those surveyed spend between $100 and $500, and a smaller 2% spend above $500. This shows most bettors are in low-to-mid spending ranges, with a smaller segment betting higher stakes.
Tanzania: The vast majority (79%) reported spending less than $10 per month.
In stark contrast, a notable 8% spend between $10 and $25. Smaller groups spend more: 6% between $25 and $50, 3% reported spending over $500. 2% between $50 and $100, 1% between $100 and $500. This indicates common small-stake betting alongside a segment of high-stakes bettors.
Uganda: Almost a similar trend to that of Kenya, more than half (51%) reported spending less than $10 per month. Higher spending brackets included: 36% between $10 and $25, 5% between $25 and $50, notably; 5% spend over $500 monthly. We also see that 2% spend between $50 and $100, and a smaller group 1% between $100 and $500, and . This reflects predominant low-stake gambling but also a small group of high-stakes bettors.
The data is supplied courtesy of Geopoll, visuals also courtesy of Geopoll.
SYNOT Games, a prominent developer of online casino content, has announced a strategic partnership with Aardvark Technologies, a provider specializing in solutions for both online and retail iGaming. This collaboration designates Aardvark as a key aggregation partner, aiming to strengthen SYNOT’s presence across Africa’s fast-growing and heavily regulated markets. Building on their previous successful cooperation, the partnership will enable both companies to better navigate complex regulatory environments, utilizing Aardvark’s expertise and advanced omnichannel platform to expand distribution and market reach throughout the continent.
This alliance signifies a significant step in SYNOT Games’ broader goal to establish a dominant position within Africa’s regulated gaming industry.
According
to Martina Krajčí, the company’s Chief Commercial Officer, the partnership is a cornerstone of their long-term strategy to become a leading player in these emerging
markets, leveraging Aardvark’s operational strengths to accelerate growth and market penetration across diverse African jurisdictions.
Richy Emah, Sumsub’s Regional Business Development Director for North/West Africa has been honoured with the Rockstar Award – Digital Identity Innovative Leadership at the recent Regtech Africa event.
“I’m incredibly honored to have received the Rockstar Award – Digital Identity Innovative Leadership on behalf of Sumsub,” Richy said. “This award is a powerful recognition of our team’s dedication to advancing financial inclusion across Africa through cutting-edge digital identity solutions.
I believe that access to financial services starts with trust and identity. We’re proud to support institutions across the continent in building a more inclusive, transparent, and tech-powered future.”
About Sumsub
Sumsub is a full-cycle verification platform that secures the whole user journey. With Sumsub’s customizable KYC, KYB, Transaction Monitoring and Fraud Prevention solutions, you can orchestrate your verification process, welcome more customers worldwide, meet compliance requirements, reduce costs, and protect your business.
Sumsub has over 2,000 clients across the fintech, crypto, transportation, trading, e-commerce and gaming industries including Bitpanda, Wirex, Avis, Bybit, Huobi, Kaizen Gaming, and TransferGo.
The awarding of South Africa’s R180-billion National Lottery licence to the Gold Rush Consortium has sparked a political firestorm, with opposition parties raising concerns about transparency, political interference, and potential conflicts of interest.
Led by prominent KwaZulu-Natal businessmen Sandile Zungu, owner of AmaZulu Football Club and former Vice-Chancellor of Mangosuthu University of Technology, and Moses Tembe, the Gold Rush Consortium has emerged as the preferred bidder to take over operations of South Africa’s National Lottery from incumbent operator Ithuba at the end of May 2025.
The eight-year contract, worth R180 billion, places one of the country’s most lucrative and influential state-run ventures in private hands, a move already generating significant political scrutiny.
Gold Rush was selected from a shortlist of eight entities in what has been described as a highly competitive and politically charged bidding process. Other contenders included Thebe Investment Corporation, Hosken Consolidated Investments (led by Johnny Copelyn and Yunis Shaik), the Umbulelo Consortium (led by Afrirent Holdings), and Giya Games.
However, the decision has not been universally welcomed. Opposition parties including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and Build One South Africa (BOSA) have condemned the process, questioning the integrity of the adjudication and alleging political favouritism.
BOSA has formally submitted a Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) request demanding full disclosure of the tender evaluation process. “South Africans have a right to know whether this process has been conducted above board,” said BOSA spokesperson Roger Solomons. “We are calling on Minister Parks Tau to release all panel member declarations, scoring sheets, and evaluation criteria immediately.”
The controversy follows what sources
describe as a “protracted and politically fraught” bidding process, during which the involvement of politically exposed individuals and high-level business figures raised red flags. Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau had initially delayed the licence decision, citing the need to ensure that all applicants were “fit and proper persons” and free of political conflicts.
Nonetheless, with the handover imminent, critics warn that the scale and complexity of the operational transition from Ithuba to Gold Rush may risk system disruptions. Lottery terminals, digital infrastructure, data migration, and call centres must all be overhauled and integrated, a task that typically requires six to twelve months of preparation.
While Gold Rush has remained silent amid the backlash, the pressure is mounting on government to defend the decision and ensure the public that the national lottery – a crucial funder of social development initiatives – is in safe, apolitical hands.
The National Lottery Commission (NLC), already tainted by previous corruption scandals involving senior officials and grant mismanagement, now faces the added challenge of navigating the political fallout while maintaining continuity of service and public trust.
South Africa’s National Lottery has reached a new milestone in operational excellence.
On 1 June 2025, ITHUBA Holdings, the temporary license operator of the South African National Lottery, has achieved one of the smoothest system transitions ever recorded in the lottery industry, both locally and internationally, one of the fastest system migrations probably ever seen in the global lottery industry - delivering a full transition to a new core technology platform in under two hours with zero downtime.
This achievement was powered by Paytronix, a 100% Black-owned South African ICT company, and marks a significant step in the country’s move toward full technological sovereignty in lottery operations.
“The speed, precision, and scale of this migration demonstrate what’s possible when strong planning, local capability, and bold vision come together,” said ITHUBA
• Seamless switchover across all major South African
banks, including Capitec, FNB, ABSA, Standard Bank, Nedbank, and others.
• Real-time integration with mobile network operators MTN and Vodacom.
• Continuous functionality across the National Lottery website, mobile apps, and e-commerce platforms. Uninterrupted access via more than 250,000 retailer terminals and handheld devices nationwide.
Despite receiving confirmation of a 12-month Temporary Licence only on the evening of 31 May 2025, ITHUBA and Paytronix delivered the full-scale migration overnight. This flawless transition ensured millions of South Africans could continue to enjoy uninterrupted access to National Lottery games— both online and at retail.
This project marks a notable shift away from legacy foreign systems toward an entirely homegrown infrastructure model. The decision to develop and operate the technology in-country
reflects a broader strategy of vertical integration, enabling faster innovation, tighter governance, and greater value retention within the national economy.
Regularly audited by the National Lotteries Commission of South Africa, both ITHUBA and Paytronix operate under strict regulatory oversight, with full transparency and no adverse findings reported to date.
This marks more than a simple systems upgrade—it sets a new benchmark for how National Lotteries can harness local capability to deliver worldclass outcomes, offering a blueprint for global best practice.
As South Africa continues to set benchmarks in performance, inclusion, and innovation, the successful migration of its core lottery infrastructure stands as a global best practice. South Africa is not only playing its lottery - it’s now running it, end to end.
The South African Competition Commission has recommended the approval of Canal+’s proposed acquisition of MultiChoice Group, in a deal that could have significant ripple effects across Africa’s media and entertainment landscape.
While the focus of the €2.5 billion takeover has largely been on television brands like DStv and SuperSport, it is the inclusion of SuperSportBet - the sports betting platform launched by MultiChoice and Nigerian gaming company KingMakers - that could prove to be one of the most transformative aspects of the deal.
SuperSportBet, introduced in 2024, was designed to be a cutting-edge platform combining sports and casino betting, with a strong emphasis on responsible gambling. Developed with KingMakers, which owns the popular BetKing brand, the platform has quickly gained traction among sports fans by leveraging the brand power of SuperSport, Africa’s premier sports broadcaster.
Its launch was hailed by MultiChoice as a step toward transforming the African entertainment experience by integrating sports viewing with realtime engagement through betting.
The takeover by Canal+ is expected to supercharge SuperSportBet’s growth. With Canal+’s deep pockets, international infrastructure, and commitment to expanding digital services across Africa, SuperSportBet stands to benefit from greater distribution reach, increased investment, and tighter integration with broadcasting assets. Industry analysts view this as a strategic entry by Canal+ into the rapidly growing African online gaming market, which has been experiencing explosive demand driven by mobile connectivity and a young, sports-obsessed population.
In a joint statement following the Competition Commission’s recommendation, Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada and MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela praised the decision as a key milestone toward building a pan-African media and entertainment champion. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to investing in local content and
creative industries, but also signaled that digital innovation- including gaming - will be central to the combined group’s strategy moving forward.
SuperSportBet offers betting on a wide range of international and domestic sporting events, including top-tier football and rugby competitions. The platform includes built-in features to encourage responsible use, such as loss limits, timeout settings, and self-exclusion tools. According to SuperSportBet general manager Barrie Swart, the platform aims to differentiate itself in a competitive and saturated market through both technology and brand trust.
Pending final approval from the Competition Tribunal, the Canal+-MultiChoice deal could mark a turning point not just for broadcasting in Africa, but for the continent’s gaming industry as well. As traditional entertainment converges with digital interactivity, SuperSportBet is emerging as a key asset in the future of African media.
More than 100 national, regional, and local retailers turned out for the leasing launch of GrandWest Mall on 19 June, signalling strong interest in the new 22,000m² community shopping centre being developed by Flanagan & Gerard in partnership with Sun International. The centre will be located at GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World in Cape Town, one of the city’s most visited landmarks.
With an investment of approximately R600 million, GrandWest Mall will be two-thirds owned by Flanagan & Gerard and one-third by Sun International. It will offer a curated mix of essential and lifestyle retail, including two supermarkets, two pharmacies, fashion outlets, specialty food retailers, health and beauty stores, as well as restaurants and coffee shops. The single-level centre will be integrated with GrandWest’s children’s entertainment zone, reinforcing the precinct’s appeal as a family-friendly destination.
Sun International CEO Anthony Leeming said, “We believe that our investment in the GrandWest Mall will add enormous value to GrandWest and will become a vital asset for the broader Goodwood area. As the experience with our Boardwalk Mall in Gqeberha has proved, we have full confidence in our partner Flanagan & Gerard to deliver a world-class retail development that will enhance our GrandWest visitor experience.”
Designed with sustainability and accessibility in mind, the development will feature backup power, water-saving features, indigenous landscaping, natural lighting, and convenient on-grade parking. GrandWest Mall is also expected to generate about 2,500 jobs during construction and 2,000 permanent positions upon completion, prioritising local contractors and materials.
Mervyn Naidoo, General Manager of GrandWest, said, “We run a 24/7 operation averaging over 16,000 visitors a day, so we have been regularly asked to add a retail element for the convenience of our surrounding communities. Now I am delighted that we can finally give them what they have long asked us for – the high-end GrandWest Mall shopping experience.”
The mall adds to an already vibrant GrandWest complex, which features Cape Town’s only licensed casino, a large arena, cinemas, hotels, restaurants, and even the city’s only ice rink. GrandWest draws around 500,000 visitors per month, and the addition of the new retail hub is set to further cement its status as a premier entertainment and leisure destination in the Western Cape.
• Extensive range of sizes and designs available to suit every game
• Double sided displays attract more players to a table and increase marketing potential
• LED lighting for added attraction, win celebration lighting sequences, game trends or table minimums
• Ora Luxe features attractive laser cut frames with inset LED lights
• Adjustable pole with three height options
• Optional integrated USB LED micro-pc board for full control of the LEDs
Premium slots and table games provider Habanero has summoned elements of magic to unravel the mystery of Wilds in its latest release, Mystic Rings.
Played on a 5x3 grid with 50 paylines, Mystic Rings is set in an enchanted forest, unleashing the power of the magical imbued rings and letting the Wilds reign supreme.
The potential to lock in the different wilds, including Middle Wilds and Corner Wilds, conjures up excitement, with players chasing a max win of up to 10,000x.
In addition, landing three scatters awards up to 15 free games, during which Wilds can explode across the reels in different forms, including locking, expanding, or Corner Wilds. Extra spins are also earned by securing wilds in place on the final spin, unlocking even more lucrative rewards.
Mystic Rings follows successful releases Daruma Impact and MX Mania, boasting immersive gameplay in the whimsical world of magic, further demonstrating its ability to produce a diverse range of games.
Toni Karapetrov, Head of Corporate Communications at Habanero, said: “We are delighted to launch our latest release, Mystic Rings. By adding a diverse array of themes to our
portfolio, Mystic Rings continues to showcase the magic of our games.”
With some of the industry’s most talented designers, developers and mathematicians, Habanero has quickly become one of the industry’s leading suppliers of slots and table games. It has earned a reputation for delivering consistency and quality thanks to its stable of great products and an intuitive back office.
Focusing on creating the most engaging and entertaining content for online, mobile and land-based casinos. It is now certified in 20+ jurisdictions, has more than 150 slot games, a wide range of table and video poker games, a number of varied and original marketing tools, as well as a unique trademarked jackpot system.
The Habanero management team is spread throughout the world and has more than four decades of experience in betting and gaming.
South Africa’s National Responsible Gambling Foundation has issued interim data revealing a sharp rise in operational costs and a significant shortfall in industry contributions. Despite hitting a record income of R40.9 million in 2025, boosted by the growing betting sector, the Foundation fell nearly R18.3 million short of expected collections based on national Gross Gambling Revenue (GGR) figures. At the same time, escalating demand for counselling services - including a 1,463% spike in calls and an 81% jump in treatment costs - has placed mounting pressure on the Foundation’s financial resources.
The gap between what gambling operators are expected to contribute and what is collected raises concerns about sector compliance and sustainable support for responsible gambling initiatives.
The Foundation is funded by the South African gambling industry, which consists of the following subsectors: casino, betting, bingo, LPM and bookmakers. The industry funding is curbed at 0.1% of the industry’s GGR (i.e., money staked less money paid out in winnings).
and what the Foundation is actually collecting. In the 2023/24 financial year, the National Gambling Board published national GGRs of R59.3 billion. Based on this, the Foundation’s NRGP income collections for the year under review were expected to be in the range of R50 million and above. However, the Foundation only managed to collect about R41 million, showing a shortfall of R18.3 million. This highlights some of the challenges the Foundation is faced with, as there are some operators and regulators who are not committed to
Figure 1: Actual versus Expected NRGP Collections * 2025. Figures are unaudited and will be available in September 2025 after the financial statement audit.
The National Responsible Gambling Programme’s (NRGP) income collections increased due to the growth of the betting sector and have reached over R40 million for the first time in the Foundation’s history. However, it is important to note that there is still a significant difference between expected NRGP collection (based on GGRs published by the National Gambling Board)
the contributions towards the National Responsible Gambling Programme and benefit commercially from using the National Responsible Gambling Programme’s toll-free counselling line and tag line for advertising compliance as outline in the National Gambling Act 2004. The Foundation continues to work with some Provincial Licensing Authorities to assist with real-time GGR confirmations to maximise NRGP income collections.
The Foundation has realised a significant shift in its operational needs from 2024 due to the growth of the gambling industry. The Foundation’s inbound
calls through the toll-free counselling line (0800 008 006) increased by 1,463% between 2023 and 2025. In the past, the toll-free counselling line was clogged by non-problem gambling counselling-related queries and from May 2024, the Foundation started diverting these calls to allow problem gambling-related calls to access the counselling call centre with ease.
This intervention put in place proved to have worked to some extent. The Foundation started realising an increased number of problem-gambling related inbound calls, which has led to increased successful referrals being made and anonymous telephone counselling sessions being conducted. In the 2025 financial year, there was a 61% increase in several successful problem gambling referrals made and over 100% increase in telephone counselling services offered. However, this success has come at a huge financial cost to the Foundation.
The increased number of inbound calls has led to a 191% increase in the telephone bills (from R1.17 million in 2024 to R3.3 million in 2025). In addition, the successful problem gambling referrals have also led to more counselling and treatment sessions being administered to problem gamblers.
In 2025, there was a 79% increase from 2024 on the number of counselling and treatment sessions administered and an 81% increase in counselling and treatment costs used during the same period (R2.8 million in 2024 to R5.1 million in 2025).
Of importance to note has been a significant increase in the number of problem gamblers recommended for Psychiatric Evaluation during the year under review. On average in the previous two financial years, about 12 problem gamblers were recommended for Psychiatric Evaluation, with about 7 being admitted per year. In the year under review, 27 problem gamblers were recommended for Psychiatric Evaluation and 18 were admitted, representing a 157% increase. This has also increased financial pressure on the Foundation’s financial resources.
(Data extracted and summarised from SARGF report for length)
MPUMALANGA
LIMPOPO
KWAZULU-NATAL
Nathan Oliphant (CEO)
Mr Bheki Mlambo (CEO) 013 750 8000 013 750 8099 www.mer.org.za
Mr. Mdoda Eric Mbhele (Chairperson) (013) 750 8000
Mr. Elijah Tijane (Chairperson)
Mr Gregory Makoko (CEO)
Mr Mxolisi Zwane (Chairperson) 011 581 4800
Mr Steven Ngubeni (Chief Executive Officer)
Ms Sibusisiwe Ngubane (Chairperson)
033 345 2714 086 501 8126 www.kzngbb.co.za
Ms Portia Baloyi (CEO) 033 345 2714 086 501 8126 FREE STATE
Mr Dhilosen Pillay (CEO)
Mr Dhilosen Pillay (Chairperson)
CASINO ASSOCIATION OF SA Adv. Themba Ngobese CEO
051 404 0300 051 404 0322 www.fsgb.co.za
051 405 5483 051 875 2460
011 011 9032 +27(0)11 011 9091 www.casasa.org.za (OUTSIDE SOUTH AFRICA DIAL 0927 – PLUS AREA CODE WITHOUT 0)
Botswana Gambling Authority www.gamblingauthority.co.bw
Ghana Gaming Commission www.gamingcommissiongh.com
GRAF
Gaming Regulators Africa Forum www.gamingregulatorsafricaforum.com
Kenya Betting Control & Licensing Board www.presidency.go.ke/index.php/betting-controland-licensing-board
3 Point Gaming (National Licence) +27 11 468 1315
ACE (African Casino Equipment) (Pty) Ltd (National Licence) (011) 514 5000 (011) 514 5060
Aruze Gaming Africa (Pty) Ltd (National Licence) (011) 466 3388 (011) 466 3389
Atomic Gaming (National Licence) (011) 514 5100 086 558 5564
Bally Gaming Africa (National Licence) (011) 571 7500 (011) 571 7508
Bergmann Automaten GmbH (011) 887 0553 (011) 786 4720
Biddcom Software (National Licence) (010) 221 1371 +27 86 649 4210
Bingo Vision (Pty) Ltd (011) 608 0335 (011) 608 0328
Casino Specialised Services (Pty) Ltd (National Licence) +27 83 255 7545 0862243463
Coin Security (011) 315 2711 (011) 315 2722
Cotswold Micro Systems Ltd (011) 493 6246 (011) 493 2568
Custom Gaming Solutions (National Licence) 0860 664443 086 555 4677
DRGT™ Africa (National Licence) 087 701 0470 086 689 5445
Electronic Vending Services (National Licence) (011) 708 2542 (011) 708 2596
GameSmart (Pty) Ltd (National Licence) (012) 663 2273 (012) 663 2683
GTECH S.p.A. (Spielo International) (National Licence) +49 57 412 409 9950
GVV (National Licence) 011 823 6278 0865 002 611
IGT - Africa (National Licence) (011) 317 1000 (011) 317 1017
Money Autotech (Pty) Ltd (011) 466 2821 (011) 466 2822
MP Gaming (National Licence) 076 991 8013 086 563 4775
Novomatic Africa (Pty) Ltd (National Licence) (011) 847 9700 (011) 315 1579
Omega Gaming (Pty) Ltd (National Licence) (011) 745 0777 (011) 466 1038
Paul-Son Gaming Supplies Inc +1 702
Playmeter Leisure Services (Pty) Ltd (National Licence) 083 448 4444 (011) 728 0231
Red Hot Games (National Licence) +27 10 444 0184
Route Gaming Solutions (Pty) Ltd (National Licence) (011) 787 7744 (011) 781 8649
SA Gaming (011) 887 6035 (011) 887 5641
TCS John Huxley (National Licence) (011) 315 7910 (011) 315 7912
Tsoaranang Holdings
UmAfrika Technologies (Pty) Ltd (National Licence) (011) 997 4200 (011) 608 0030
Viscount Portfolio (Pty) Ltd
Viva Bingo (011) 314 1720 (011) 314 1811
Vukani Gaming Corporation (Pty) Ltd (011) 268 6420 (011)
WMS Gaming Africa (National Licence) (011) 542
Malawi Gaming Board www.magla.org.mw
Tanzania Gaming Board www.gbt.go.tz
Uganda Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board www.lgrb.go.ug
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