African Gaming Regulators Convene in South Africa for GRAF Conference

Provincial Regulation Takes Center Stage

The North West Gambling Board hosts the rotating conference this year. GRAF was established in 2003 to unite regulatory bodies addressing shared challenges, including online betting growth and consumer protection. The North West Province oversees nine licensed casinos, including Sun City. These facilities generate revenue for local communities through tourism and taxation.

Expected participants include representatives from South Africa, Ghana, Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria. Former GRAF chair Joseph Adongo explained the collaboration rationale at a previous forum. “The unique regulatory hurdles in African gaming demand collective action to build trust and sustainability,” Adongo stated. The speaker lineup remains unannounced, but likely includes NWGB executives.

Previous Conferences Address Digital Transformation Challenges

The 15th GRAF edition in Durban, South Africa, during April 2024 covered sports betting security and responsible gambling. Over 150 delegates attended sessions where South Africa’s National Gambling Board discussed policy changes. Botswana representatives shared financial crime prevention approaches.

The 14th forum in Gaborone, Botswana, in 2023 focused on post-pandemic recovery. Digital migration discussions helped members like Tanzania update remote gaming licenses. Conferences facilitate policy development and responsible gambling practice promotion. Regulators update fraud prevention approaches and ensure transparency. Outcomes include shared data privacy guidelines adopted after prior events. These support illegal site combat efforts and industry employment.