FICA and the Gaming Industry: Why Compliance Is Now as Essential as Accounting
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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
The Shifting Landscape of Gambling in Africa
Africa’s gambling industry is undergoing a period of accelerated transformation, marked by growth, diversification, and heightened regulatory oversight.
Recent data from Statistics South Africa highlights a sharp rise in income from gambling services - an upward trend echoed by the National Gambling Board and Stats SA’s household surveys. While this growth underscores gambling’s expanding role in the economy, it also raises pressing social questions about sustainability and consumer protection.
On the corporate front, Sun International’s solid performance for the first half of 2025 illustrates the resilience of major operators in the face of macroeconomic headwinds.
Under the leadership of new CEO Ulrik Bengtsson, the group is leveraging its diverse portfolio - from land-based casinos and resorts to online platforms and limited payout machines - while pursuing an omnichannel strategy that reflects global shifts in player behaviour.
The iGaming sector continues to chart its own path. Fraud rates across African platforms have dropped by 14.7% in the past two years, even as global levels rise. Yet challenges remain, particularly around customer verification.
At the same time, regulatory developments are reshaping the business environment. Amendments to Schedule 1 of FICA now place gaming suppliers - ranging from slot machine vendors to electronic monitoring providers - under stricter compliance obligations traditionally reserved for banks and financial services.
Elsewhere on the continent, Equatorial Guinea has signaled its intent to become a serious player in digital gaming by awarding its first-ever Online Gaming Master License.
This milestone introduces a new framework for licensed online casinos, sports betting, and digital products, further embedding regulated gaming into Africa’s evolving economic fabric.
Against this backdrop of growth and regulatory evolution, the conversation around responsibility has never been more urgent. The Responsible Gambling Summit 2025, set for 13–14 November at Emperors Palace, will bring together regulators, operators, and policymakers to confront these issues head-on.
As the industry expands, so too must its commitment to safeguarding players and fostering sustainable growth.
The African gambling story is one of dynamism and complexity - balancing opportunity with responsibility, innovation with regulation. As we track these shifts, one thing is clear: the sector is no longer peripheral, but a central part of Africa’s economic and social landscape.
Roy Bannister
Legacy Becomes a Liability: The Hidden Drag on Africa’s Gaming
the ‘PEAK’ of Player Retention
Register Now for Responsible Gambling Summit: Emperors Palace, Johannesburg - 13-14 November
SOFTSWISS Exec Tackles AML and Compliance in SA iGaming
Light & Wonder Unveils Lion Link Fortune: A Bold New Chapter
Stats SA Data Shows Rise in Gambling
Gambling and betting are on the rise. Not only is this supported by data from the National Gambling Board, but it has also emerged in economic and household findings from Stats SA.
Statistics South Africa’s latest survey on the personal services industry shows a disturbing trend: the extraordinary growth in income from gambling services.
The personal services industry includes the education, health, entertainment and recreation sectors. Five years ago, in 2018, services in health and education generated about 70% of the income in the personal services industry. That decreased to 56% in 2023.
The results of the latest survey, conducted in 2023, show that recreational, cultural and sporting activities (the category that includes betting and gambling services) generated 37% of the total income generated by the personal services industry, which was estimated at R688-billion. The bubbles in the chart above show the services in the sporting and other recreational activities category only (ie, not cultural). The total income for this category is estimated at R209-billion in 2023. The gambling and betting services, which are in shades of green, grew from a combined income of R25-billion in 2018 to R191-billion in 2023.
For more read StatsSA’s data story Appetite for gambling and betting grows
Graphic courtesy of www.outlier.co.za
Betway’s African Markets Deliver $225m Record Quarter
Betway’s parent company, SuperGroup, has reported its highest-ever quarterly revenue, hitting US$579.4 million in Q2 2025, with Africa emerging as the standout growth engine.
The continent, alongside the Middle East, contributed $225 million of Betway’s $355 million core revenue - underscoring Africa’s growing dominance in the group’s portfolio.
CEO Neal Menashe credited the results to
“strong execution in key markets, a packed global sports calendar, increased deposits, high customer retention, and margin expansion.”
SuperGroup’s operations outside the US delivered $162 million EBITDA, while a $5.4
million US loss brought adjusted EBITDA to $156.7 million. Menashe added that the decision to exit the US market reflects the company’s focus on “capital efficiency and long-term profitability,” with Africa now firmly at the centre of its growth strategy.
Sun International Produces Solid Results Amidst Structural Shifts in Gaming Industry
- Continuing income up 6.7% to R6.1 billion, excluding the Table Bay Hotel; Continuing adjusted EBITDA up 1.1% to R1.6 billion, excluding the Table Bay Hotel, with adjusted EBITDA margin at 25.4%;
- Momentum continued in the Sunbet group business, with income up 70.7% to R874 million; - 62.4% of the R1.7 billion cash generated by operations converted to free cash;
- Adjusted headline earnings up 5.9% to R555 million;
- Interim gross cash dividend of 172 cents per share – up 6.8%.
Sun International delivered a solid performance for the six months ended 30 June 2025, navigating macroeconomic headwinds and structural shifts in the gaming sector. The results underscore the strength of the group’s diversified portfolio and its increasing focus on an omnichannel approach.
New Chief Executive, Ulrik Bengtsson, takes over a well-capitalised and diverse business, whose market-leading assets include land-based casinos, online gaming, resorts and hotels, and limited payout machines.
“I am delighted to have joined Sun International at such a pivotal time. Overall, the group has an excellent collection of assets, and all four business portfolios have their own set of clear opportunities. I look forward to working with teams across the businesses to position the group for its next phase of growth,” remarked Bengtsson.
The group’s continuing income increased by 3.2% to R6.2 billion (including the Table Bay Hotel) compared to the six months ended 30 June 2024. Excluding the impact of the Table Bay Hotel (“TBH“) lease cessation, group continuing income increased by 6.7%. Group continuing adjusted EBITDA declined by 3.8% to R1.6 billion. Excluding the impact of the TBH lease cessation, group continuing adjusted EBITDA rose by 1.1%. The group’s adjusted headline earnings grew by 5.9% to R555 million, translating to adjusted headline earnings of 229 cents per share, a 6.5% increase over the prior period.
The Sunbet group maintained its upward trend, with income increasing by 70.7%, driven by increased volume of activity and deposits. The urban casinos had a muted performance with income declining by 1.4%. Some operational challenges in combination with a casino market that is under pressure will require the group to re-assess their approach to this business segment. Excluding the TBH, resorts and hotels revenue was up 4.3% to R1.3 billion on the prior period, driven by the recovery of conferencing and events. The Sun Slots strategy bore positive outcomes with income improving by 2.2% to R701 million compared to the prior period.
The Table Bay Hotel is undergoing a substantial refurbishment and will re-open in December 2025 as
The InterContinental Table Bay Hotel, Cape Town. The hotel will be managed by Sun International under a hotel management agreement.
The group has consistently demonstrated its capability to generate significant cash flow through its diverse portfolio and is in a strong financial position with debt (excluding IFRS 16 lease liabilities) at R5.0 billion, down from R5.2 billion at 31 December 2024. The debt levels take into account the payment of the 2024 final net dividend of R591 million. Net interest cost decreased by 15.1% from the prior period as a result of the lower debt and interest rates.
Aligned with its stated dividend guidance of distributing 75% of adjusted headline earnings per share, the board has declared an interim gross cash dividend of 172 cents per share, amounting to R444 million. This dividend reflects a 6.8% increase over the prior period and underscores the group’s commitment to delivering sustainable value to its shareholders.
Urban casinos, which remain the cornerstone of Sun International’s land-based operations, reported income of R3.2 billion, representing a 1.4% decline. As the land-based casino market continues to be under pressure, the group is re-assessing its approach to this portfolio of businesses. The business delivered an adjusted EBITDA of R1.0 billion, pre-management fees, with a margin of 31.7%, down from 33.1% in the prior period.
The group has implemented a new operating model to position the urban casino portfolio as integrated entertainment destinations. Investment is being directed towards casino floor optimisation, service enhancements, product innovation, as well as improved marketing to better convert footfall. This, in combination with a sharpened focus on customer acquisition and retention strategies is expected to support income in the medium term.
The Sunbet group delivered another standout performance, with income up 70.7% over the prior period to R874 million. Income growth was primarily driven by a 128.7% increase in slots income, generated by increased customer activity and deposits.
The Sunbet group delivered an adjusted EBITDA of R292 million, pre-management
fees, a substantial uplift from R166 million in the prior period, translating to an improved adjusted EBITDA margin of 33.4%. This margin expansion reflects operational leverage, disciplined cost management, and strong customer engagement across their products. Activity across all the product verticals has shown a strong increase over the prior period.
The group‘s limited payout machine business, Sun Slots, delivered adjusted EBITDA of R161 million, with a margin of 23.0% compared to 23.6% in the prior period. Sun Slots remains a strategic business in the group’s gaming portfolio. Sun Slots’ primary focus is to optimise its existing portfolio given its scale and the breadth and depth of its market offering by targeting the optimal sites in key regions and a coordinated rollout of Type-B licences.
When Legacy Becomes a Liability: The
Hidden Drag on Africa’s Gaming
Potential
Africa’s gaming and iGaming industry has always been defined by bold moves. Operators have adapted rapidly to local contexts, regulatory shifts, and the rising tide of mobile-first consumers. The continent’s gaming legacy is one of agility and innovation—moving fast, seizing opportunity, and building businesses that thrive in a competitive, often unpredictable landscape. But not all legacy is good legacy.
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SYNOT, the ‘PEAK’ of Player Retention
The iGaming market is one of the most dynamic and competitive industries today, where player loyalty can shift in an instant with just a single click. In this environment, retention has become the cornerstone of sustainable growth. To meet this challenge, SYNOT Games continues to evolve PEAK – a retention tool built to help operators predict and prevent churn while enhancing player engagement. For a comprehensive overview, Product Manager Katarína Ružičková takes us through the tool’s key features, its latest innovations, and the business value it brings.
“In the highly competitive online gambling sector, operators face the constant challenge of keeping players engaged in a world full of instant alternatives. Delivering the right tools to operators is crucial, as effective retention strategies directly impact long-term growth and profitability,” explains Katarína Ružičková, PEAK Manager at SYNOT Games.
Platforms increasingly recognize that without advanced retention solutions, they risk higher churn, rising acquisition costs, and a weaker market position. PEAK was explicitly designed to address these challenges, providing operators with a smarter, datadriven approach to predict, understand, and ultimately prevent player loss.
PEAK ADVANCES
“PEAK has quickly evolved into a multi-channel tool, already offering operators a wide range of powerful features designed to boost player retention and deliver memorable experiences. From competitive elements to surprise rewards and unique bonus mechanics, PEAK provides flexible solutions that can be adapted to different markets and player segments. Let’s take a closer look at some of its key features,” says Ružičková.
Tournaments are one of PEAK’s most potent tools. Operators can run multiple campaigns simultaneously, tailoring them to different player segments. Flexible scoring formulas, such as total win multipliers, consecutive wins or losses, or bet amounts, enable the creation of inventive competition formats. With multilingual support and customizable graphics, casinos can design tournaments that feel both local and exclusive.
“Tournaments give our partners enormous freedom to design highly engaging player experiences. The ability to personalize events helps them create something that truly stands out in the market and builds long-term loyalty,” she adds.
The second highly anticipated feature is Prize Drop, which brings an additional layer of excitement to standard gameplay by awarding random rewards while players play. Whether it’s free spins, cash prizes, or other perks, the element of surprise keeps players engaged for longer.
“Our goal with Prize Drop was to give casinos the freedom to configure their drops however they wished
and make the reward process not only thrilling but also completely effortless. With automatic payouts, players receive their prizes instantly, no extra steps required,” Ružičková points out.
Of the three major features that have been available in PEAK until now, this year’s addition was Dream Dial, a solution that adds even more thrills to the PEAK ecosystem. When starting a new session, players can spin the wheel and instantly get rewards such as free spins, cash, or even physical prizes. Importantly, Dream Dial does not require players to place bets, making it inclusive and entertaining for both casual and loyal users.
“Dream Dial was designed to attract and reward a wide audience. It’s a great way to add unexpected joy and entertainment. With quite a simple idea of the wheel of fortune, we managed to create a complex tool which gives players the instant reward gratification system,” Katarína Ružičková concludes.
NEW ADDITIONS
“Being competitive on the market and striving to create solutions that will keep SYNOT Games always one step ahead of the competition requires constant development and refinement of our products. PEAK is no different, which is why we have developed two new features that enhance player engagement and retention - Challenges and Qualifications,” explains Ružičková.
Challenges are a new type of promotion designed to transform standard gameplay into a structured, gamified experience. Operators can create multistage quests with up to five progressive steps, set customizable goals based on bets, wins, rounds, or win/bet ratios, and offer a wide variety of rewards –
from free spins and cash bonuses to tickets or even physical prizes.
“By providing clear objectives and milestones, Challenges motivate players to return more frequently and interact more with the platform, while enabling operators to design short or long-term promotional arcs,” she observes.
The next upcoming feature, Qualifications, allows operators to create tiered promotions where players must meet specific criteria to unlock a Main Event, typically a high-value or limited-reward promotion.
“This feature provides a clear progression path, with real-time progress bars, automated reward distribution, and seamless integration with various promotion types. Operators can run cost-effective pre-promotions, chain qualification phases, and offer instant prizes, all through an intuitive back-office setup. Qualifications ensure that players remain engaged while providing operators with maximum flexibility to drive retention and loyalty efficiently,” according to the manager.
LOOKING AHEAD
As PEAK continues to expand, SYNOT Games is committed to delivering even more innovative features that empower operators and enrich the player experience. The focus remains on creating tools that not only drive engagement but also establish lasting player loyalty in an increasingly competitive landscape.
“Our vision for PEAK is to keep evolving it into a comprehensive engagement hub. Every new feature is designed with both operators and players in mind, ensuring that PEAK stays ahead of market trends and sets new standards in retention,” concludes Katarína Ružičková, PEAK Manager at SYNOT Games.
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The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF), in partnership with the Eastern Cape Gambling Board, KwaZulu-Natal Economic Regulator Authority, Limpopo Gambling Board, Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, and the National Gambling Board, will host the Responsible Gambling (“RG”) Summit 2025 on 13 – 14 November 2025 at Emperors Palace, Kempton Park, Gauteng.
This high-level Summit will convene regulators, operators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to address the future of responsible gambling in South Africa.
Summit Objectives
Facilitate dialogue across the gambling sector on responsible practices.
Deliver a solutions-driven platform where resolutions are converted into stakeholder
action plans, with progress monitored and reported at the biennial Summit.
Advocate for legislative and regulatory reforms to strengthen responsible gambling measures.
Enhance collaboration between regulators and operators to support sustainable and effective industry practices.
Following the success of the Responsible Gambling Awards 2024, entries are now open for
the Responsible Gambling Awards 2025.
The Awards will recognise organisations and initiatives that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and measurable impact in promoting safer gambling.
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SOFTSWISS Exec Lends Expertise on Money Laundering and Compliance in SA’s iGaming Sector
As South Africa’s digital gaming market continues its rapid expansion, international tech company SOFTSWISS has announced its Head of Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Eleni Panagiotopoulou, will be a guest lecturer for a new global training programme by Sumsub Academy.
The announcement comes as digital sectors across South Africa face increased exposure to sophisticated financial crime, which cost the country an estimated R3.3 billion in 2023 alone. The free online course, which launched on the 15 September 2025, is designed to equip compliance professionals with the latest knowledge to navigate these evolving risks.
Drawing on her extensive experience across the iGaming industry, Eleni will contribute to a specialised module focusing on the online gaming environment. Her sessions will explore how money laundering risks can manifest in digital settings and how operators can strengthen their compliance frameworks to ensure safer and more transparent operations.
Speaking ahead of the course launch, Eleni said: “iGaming is a fast-paced and dynamic sector, and South Africa is a key growth market. With this expansion comes a responsibility to ensure robust compliance frameworks are in place. AML isn’t just
a regulatory issue; it’s about building a sustainable and trustworthy industry. I look forward to sharing practical insights that can help local professionals navigate the complexities of financial crime risk and build safer gaming environments.”
Natalie Buraimoh, Head of AML Product at Sumsub, added: “We’re pleased to be working with leading partners like SOFTSWISS to bring additional iGaming expertise into this course, helping professionals address some of the sector’s most complex AML challenges.
After ten years of helping businesses navigate compliance, we know how quickly AML requirements evolve, and our aim is to deliver accessible training that professionals at every level can apply in their daily work.”
The Sumsub Academy AML Fundamentals course brings together leading experts from across the financial crime prevention space, including specialists in fintech and payments. Participants who
complete the programme will receive a shareable AML certificate.
For SOFTSWISS, this collaboration highlights the company’s commitment to supporting the South African market by sharing global best practices. As the local iGaming ecosystem matures, this expertise is vital for fostering sustainable growth and responsible operations.
About SOFTSWISS
SOFTSWISS is an international technology company with over 15 years of experience in developing innovative solutions for the iGaming industry. The company’s product portfolio includes the Online Casino Platform, the Game Aggregator with over 35 000 casino games, Affilka Affiliate Platform, the Sportsbook Software and the Jackpot Aggregator. In 2013, SOFTSWISS revolutionised the industry by introducing the world’s first Bitcoin-optimised online casino solution.
Light & Wonder Unveils Lion Link Fortune: A Bold New Chapter in a Beloved Franchise It’s
Time to Find Your Fortune!
Light & Wonder is thrilled to announce the launch of Lion Link Fortune, the latest evolution of its acclaimed Lion Link family— one of the company’s top-performing slot franchises. This exciting new release builds on proven gameplay favourites while introducing fresh, engaging features designed to captivate players across the EMEA region.
A Fresh Twist on a Proven Hit
Lion Link Fortune brings an enhanced version of the popular Hold & Spin mechanic with the introduction of the Fortune Hold & Spin, offering players new layers of excitement and deeper engagement. Available in four captivating themes—Dragon, Ox, Rooster, and Tiger—this new title combines stunning visuals with innovative gameplay.
Offered on Light & Wonder’s cutting-edge Kascada Dual Screen, Kascada Slant, and Cosmic™ cabinets, Lion Link Fortune provides flexible deployment options tailored to operator needs.
Key Features and Value Propositions:
Builds on the successful Lion Link franchise by adding a secondary Hold & Spin feature—Fortune Hold & Spin—introducing new strategic layers for players.
A Fortune jackpot that can only be won within the Fortune Hold & Spin feature, heightening the stakes and excitement.
Each Free Games theme offers unique mechanics with mystery stack symbols:
Dragon and Ox: symbols lock in place after landing.
Rooster and Tiger: symbols move across the reels after every spin (right to left for Rooster, left to right for Tiger).
The “pearls” feature introduces dynamic visual effects and enhanced gameplay elements— they can fly up and may split contributing to the Fortune Jackpot and increasing the changes to trigger the Hold & Spin, creating more action and excitement.
Lion Link Fortune represents an evolution in gameplay design and player engagement, reinforcing Light & Wonder’s commitment to delivering premium gaming experiences that operators and players love.
Executive Quotes
Marco Bettio, Senior Director Product Management EMEA, Light & Wonder
“With Lion Link Fortune, players are in for an engaging experience with the introduction of the new Hold & Spin mechanic, which adds a fresh layer of excitement while maintaining the familiar gameplay they already enjoy. The addition of the Fortune Jackpot offers players an extra opportunity of big wins. The innovative split pearl feature adds a unique twist, which will drive strong player interest across casino floors throughout EMEA.”
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Emperors Palace Unveils Africa’s First Casino Wizard VIP™ Table Games
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Christiaan Els, Managing Director TCSJOHNHUXLEY Africa and Kamal Parbhoo, Slots Manager, Emperors Palace Casino seen at the launch of an African first.
Habanero Delivers Wild Win Potential in Indiana Wolf
Habanero, the premium slots and table games provider, has expanded its diverse portfolio with its latest release, Indiana Wolf, offering up to 589,824 ways to win.
Set on a dynamic 5 reel, variable layout, Indiana Wolf introduces symbolsplitting mechanics that can significantly expand the amount of paylines available on any spin.
The Free Games round brings additional intensity, with the top three centre symbols guaranteed to split on every round.
Matching symbols that land within the 3x3 block beneath them can increase an active multiplier, while up to 50 Free Games can be activated for extended gameplay as players look to land a huge maximum win of 17,627 in the extremely volatile game.
By integrating Habanero’s Jackpot Race™ mechanic with the Buy Feature, the new title offers operators a versatile game that enhances both prolonged playtime and player retention.
The launch of Indiana Wolf follows the success of Daruma Impact and MX Mania, reinforcing Habanero’s commitment to delivering varied and engaging titles to regulated markets worldwide.
Toni Karapetrov, Head of Corporate Communications at Habanero, said: “Indiana Wolf combines beautifully crafted bold designs with innovative mechanics, giving operators a title that stands out with ample ways to win.
“The striking features and significant win potential reflect our focus on producing slots that offer both excitement and strong commercial value.”
About Habanero
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Africa’s iGaming Sector Cuts Fraud but Faces Ongoing Verification Challenges
Africa’s iGaming sector continues to chart a unique course in the fight against fraud, recording a 14.7% reduction in fraud rates over the past two years, even as global levels rise.
The findings, published in the State of Identity
Verification in the iGaming Industry 2025 report, underline the region’s progress while also exposing the challenges that still stand in the way of a fully secure and seamless player experience.
Globally, fraud is escalating. Rates have nearly doubled from 0.70% in 2023 to 1.39% in early 2025, with 82.9% of surveyed operators reporting a rise in fraud. But the picture varies sharply by region, where Latin America’s fraud rate surged by nearly 32%, while mature markets like Europe and North America also saw increases, though less dramatic. Africa, uniquely, moved in the opposite direction thanks largely to targeted investment in verification technology and stronger compliance processes. However, the proportion of fraud among verification attempts remains relatively high across the continent (at 2.55% this year), stressing the need for advanced fraud protection measures to be implemented at every stage of the player journey.
Verification: Gains but Gaps Remain
While the continent’s verification pass rate—a key indicator of both user experience and compliance strength—improved modestly from 65.76% in 2023 to 68.98% in 2025, it remains well below the 80–90% averages achieved in regions such as Europe, North America, and Latin America. The slower progress highlights an urgent need for African operators to close this gap if they are to retain players and grow sustainably. In the report, industry professionals share
practical advice on how operators can improve pass rates, from streamlining KYC journeys to adopting reusable and non-document verification methods.
New Fraud Patterns Demand a New Playbook
The report identifies several shifts in the fraud landscape requiring urgent action:
• The 4am Window: Fraud attempts spike between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m. local time, a period when many compliance teams are offline.
• Beyond Sign-Up: 41.9% of operators now say fraud attempts peak at the deposit stage, not during initial registration.
• AI-Powered Crime: Deepfake-based fraud rose 700% globally between 2024 and 2025, forcing operators to contend with more sophisticated attacks.
Innovation and Regulation Reshape the Industry
Verification technology is evolving in response. Average KYC completion times have dropped from 32 seconds to 25 seconds globally, aided by innovations such as non-document verification, reusable KYC, and portable digital identities. Meanwhile, a tightening regulatory landscape across Africa matches these advancements.
In South Africa, the enforcement of the Travel Rule— effective April 2025—requires crypto platforms to collect and transmit originator and beneficiary data for all transactions, while the National Gambling
Amendment Bill proposes expanded powers for a new regulator to block payments to unlicensed iGaming operators. In Kenya, the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act is being updated to combat illegal gambling apps, with increased biometric registration requirements and mandatory integration with government databases like the eCitizen portal. Meanwhile, in Nigeria, the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) has intensified oversight by suspending licenses, prosecuting unregistered platforms, and mandating stricter KYC processes to prevent fraud and underage betting.
Collectively, these shifts mark a regional pivot toward stricter, tech-driven compliance frameworks— and operators that fall short risk losing their market foothold.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Africa’s Momentum
“African operators have proven that robust verification isn’t a barrier to growth—it’s the foundation for it,” said Hannes Bezuidenhout, VP of Sales for Africa at Sumsub. “But the same AI-driven threats testing mature markets are at Africa’s doorstep. To stay ahead, operators must build continuous, real-time verification and AI-backed fraud prevention tech into the entire player journey.”
By integrating advanced tools like biometric checks and AI-powered anomaly detection into a unified workflow, the industry can continue to protect revenue while delivering the seamless and secure experiences that players demand.
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Equatorial Guinea Awards First Online Gaming Master License
Equatorial Guinea has taken its first formal step into the regulated online gambling sector, granting its inaugural Online Gaming Master License to Cyprusbased Mascott Capital Partners.
The move opens the door for licensed online casinos, sports betting, and other digital gaming products under a new national framework.
The announcement was made by Minister of Tourism and Tourism Infrastructure, Antonio-Pedro Oliveira Burupu, acting under Law 2/1995 and amendments in Law 10/2017. Government officials called the development a “pivotal moment” for economic diversification and digital sector growth.
Mascott Capital Partners will operate a proprietary platform to process license applications, monitor compliance, and approve international gaming companies seeking market entry. Under the system, all operators must work through Mascott to access the market, adhering to strict age verification, anti-money laundering (AML) protocols, operational audits, and responsible gaming measures.
Officials have positioned Equatorial Guinea as an offshore licensing alternative to jurisdictions such as Curaçao, Nevis, and Anjouan — aiming to combine investor-friendly conditions with adherence to international standards. The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to create new revenue streams for public services while maintaining robust compliance enforcement.
The move follows the country’s removal from the FATF grey list on 29 October 2023 after demonstrating progress in its AML/CFT regime. However, the FATF continues to monitor the nation, citing concerns over asset declaration transparency and corruption — areas that could impact its competitiveness in an increasingly crowded grey-market licensing landscape.
Authorities have stressed that compliance responsibility lies with license holders, with strict penalties for breaches.
Nigeria Launches ‘SafePlay’ National Self-Exclusion Tool to Tackle Gambling Harm
Nigeria, one of Africa’s largest gambling markets, has launched SafePlay, a national self-exclusion portal aimed at reducing gambling-related harm and supporting vulnerable players.
Developed by the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, the platform allows consumers to voluntarily block themselves from gambling services and access a range of support resources. During its recnet launch event at the Regen Luxury Suites in Ikeja, Lagos, industry stakeholders highlighted the tool’s potential to educate players, prevent excessive gambling, and connect individuals to recovery services.
SafePlay goes beyond blocking access - it links users to specialist organizations, counselling services, and harm-prevention tools, guiding them towards long-term solutions. This includes integration with BetBlocker, a free, localized platform that enables at-risk players to exclude themselves across multiple gambling operators.
With Nigeria’s gaming industry continuing to expand rapidly, authorities say the introduction of a unified, national self-exclusion system marks an important step toward responsible gambling regulation and consumer protection.
Liberia FIA Fines Casino for Major Anti-Money Laundering Failures
The Financial Intelligence Agency of Liberia (FIA) has fined 50/50 Casino Inc. six million Liberian dollars (L$6,000,000) for what it calls a “significant lack” of Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) controls — a failure the agency says exposes the country to money laundering and terrorist financing risks.
The penalty follows a risk-based AML/CFT inspection of Liberia’s gaming sector conducted October 9–15, 2024. Inspectors found 50/50 Casino in gross violation of the AML/CFT Act of 2021, including failure to carry out customer due diligence, absence of a risk-based compliance program, weak customer onboarding procedures, and ineffective transaction monitoring.
The FIA cited breaches of Section 15.3.2 of the law, which requires casinos to identify and verify customers and implement safeguards against financial crime. In addition to the fine, the FIA has ordered 50/50 Casino to submit a detailed remediation plan by September 1, 2025, and fully address all identified deficiencies by November 1, 2025. The agency warned it will take further supervisory action if compliance is not achieved.
FICA and the Gaming Industry: Why Compliance Is Now as Essential as Accounting
South Africa’s gaming industry thrives on innovation, precision, and the trust of clients who expect integrity from every supplier.
Yet, beneath the flashing lights and high-value deals, a quieter but equally powerful reality is reshaping how businesses in this sector must operate: the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA).
With recent amendments to Schedule 1 of FICA, suppliers of high-value goods—defined as items of R100,000 or more in a single sale or series of related transactions—are now clearly included as Accountable Institutions.
For gaming suppliers, this covers a wide range of equipment: slot machines, jackpot systems, electronic monitoring tools, gaming chips, casino furniture, displays or bundled installations. If you are in the business of selling such goods, you are expected to comply with a regulatory regime that was once seen as the domain of banks and estate agents. Named vs. Nature-Based Compliance Some industries—like attorneys, estate agents, and trust companies—are named directly in the Act. Others, such as high-value goods dealers, are included because of the nature of their business. This distinction matters. If you supply gaming equipment above the threshold, you may not have thought of yourself as a regulated entity, but in the eyes of the FIC, you are. And the legislation is evolving. The way it is written can sometimes feel vague and open to interpretation, which makes it vital to seek professional advice to ensure you are not overlooking obligations. Compliance is not a “tick-box exercise”—it requires careful consideration of how your specific business model aligns with the law. Why “Paper Only” No Longer Cuts It A common misconception in the industry is that simply having a Risk Management and Compliance Programme (RMCP) drafted is sufficient. It isn’t. Regulators are increasingly clear: they want to see RMCPs actively implemented—embedded into your day-to-day operations, updated periodically, and tested for effectiveness. If your compliance file is something you only pull off the shelf when asked, you are already at risk.
The Often-Overlooked Employee Screening
Requirement The Act does not just focus on your customers—it also applies to your people. FICA requires that accountable institutions screen their employees to ensure they are fit and proper for their roles and are not themselves potential compliance risks. This is an area where many businesses fall short, simply because they are unaware of the obligation or underestimate its importance. How You Invoice Matters Here’s another often-missed detail: the way you structure your invoicing can directly affect your compliance. For example, whether a transaction is viewed as a single sale or a series of related sales can determine if it triggers high-value goods dealer status under FICA. With the right advice, you can streamline your invoicing in a way that not only clarifies your obligations but also helps reduce unnecessary red tape in your reporting processes. The Stakes for Gaming Suppliers Failing to comply is no small matter. Penalties can run as high as R50 million, and the consequences extend far beyond fines. Reputational damage, strained client relationships, and even licensing complications could follow. The compliance spotlight on the gaming sector is only growing brighter, and suppliers cannot afford to be caught unprepared. Compliance Support Is Now Business-Critical It’s time to shift how we think about compliance. A serious business would never try to operate without proper accounting systems and software. The same should now be said of FICA support services and compliance software. Without them, you are effectively flying blind in a regulatory landscape that grows more complex every year. At Be Compliant, our approach is built for businesses like yours. We provide:
- Annual verification of FIC and goAML registration.
- Periodic RMCP revision, ensuring your
compliance programme remains current.
- Our BCOS KYC compliance software, which integrates with the Department of Home Affairs, CIPC, and the Master of the High Court portal.
- Staff training, via site visits, online modules, and video content.
- Assistance with annual compliance returns.
- Employee screening tools as required by FICA.
- Automated customer due diligence, including daily rescreening for targeted financial sanctions and politically exposed persons.
- Customised media screening to streamline adverse media checks and save hours of wasted research. Our unique approach means your Risk Matrix is built directly into our software, turning compliance from a headache into a manageable, integrated part of your operations. Final Thought FICA compliance is no longer an optional extra or an afterthought— it is a strategic necessity. In the same way that accounting safeguards the financial health of your business, compliance safeguards its legitimacy and reputation. For suppliers in the gaming industry, the time to act is not tomorrow, but today. Be Compliant – helping gaming suppliers stay ahead of regulation, so you can focus on powering the industry.
Be Compliant is a professional service business focused on the compliance needs of law firms, estate agents and other firms. Our services are delivered mainly in the businessto-business environment, with long term client relationships underlying our activities. The South African regulatory environment has become far more challenging in recent times and Be Compliant provides the skills, know-how and training to make adoption of compliant systems, processes and procedures as painless as possible.We service clients in Gauteng and the Western Cape, with services stretching as far as North-West and Mpumalanga
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Sun International Produces Solid Results Amidst
Structural Shifts in Gaming Industry
Continued from Page 4
The resorts and hotels sector in South Africa has experienced growth following a slow start to the year,
driven by a resurgence in conferencing as the country hosts the G20 Summit and improved occupancy rates. The group’s rooms and food and beverage revenue, excluding the TBH, achieved good growth, with an
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increase of 9.9% on the prior period.
Excluding the TBH, adjusted EBITDA for resorts and hotels, pre-management fees, was R221 million, down 12.0% from R251 million in the prior period, resulting in an adjusted EBITDA margin of 16.8%, down from 19.9%.
Bengtsson remarked “Over the coming months we will re-assess our approach to both driving improvements in growth and optimising returns. My focus is on the long-term competitiveness of Sun International as a digitally-led, market-leading omnichannel gaming company of scale, enabled by competitive products, smart omnichannel solutions, engaged teams, and improved execution.
“Following the mutual decision not to proceed with the Peermont acquisition, the group benefits from a strong balance sheet which provides optionality around the deployment of our capital. We will look at our capital allocation policy to ensure that, in the future, we have the right balance between returns to shareholders, investment in the business, and value accretive M&A.
Sun International is a business with a diversified portfolio that has clear and distinct opportunities to drive growth. The group is well-positioned for sustainable growth, supported by the optimisation of urban casinos, strong momentum in digital conversion for Sunbet, selective expansion in Sun Slots, and the usual seasonal rebound in resorts and hotels. On an ongoing basis, we will continue to improve the infrastructure and casino offering and seek growth in selective regulated African markets for Sunbet, ” Bengtsson remarked.
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WMS Gaming Africa (National Licence) (011) 542 2760 (011)
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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