BiG Africa Summit 2025 to Spotlight Africa’s iGaming Growth

The BiG Africa Summit is set to showcase the expansion of the Southern African iGaming sector when it takes place next month in Gaborone, Botswana. Organiser Eventus International has described the event as "the premier platform to illuminate the region’s success stories and future opportunities."

Scheduled for February 17–20 at The Grand Palm Hotel Casino Convention Resort, the summit will bring together senior decision-makers and industry innovators to discuss recent developments and the future of iGaming on the continent.

Key Developments in Southern Africa’s iGaming Sector

The event follows significant regulatory advancements and operator successes across Southern Africa.

South Africa

South Africa has made strides in regulating online gaming, with The Democratic Alliance (DA) introducing the RGB 2024 to establish a provincial licensing system, regulate advertising, and ensure compliance with the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA). Additionally, Judy Hermans, Chair of the Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry, and Competition, has called for legislative reforms to address the unregulated iGaming market.

Licensed operators have reported a 41% surge in wagering activities during the first half of 2023/24, with sports betting leading the market. The Springboks' Rugby World Cup victory has further fuelled interest in sports betting across the country.

Zambia

In September 2023, the Zambian government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, introduced a National Gaming and Lotteries Policy and a bill to establish a National Gaming and Lotteries Board. This aims to enhance regulatory oversight and align Zambia’s gaming sector with international standards.

Angola

Angola’s Council of Ministers approved a new gaming law in 2024, replacing its 2016 legislation. The law introduces a five-year online gaming licensing system, aiming to attract local and international investment by simplifying the regulatory framework.

Local operators in Angola are also launching innovative marketing campaigns and loyalty programmes, boosting engagement among bettors. Delegates at the BiG Africa Summit will have the opportunity to explore these strategies and learn how to tailor their approaches to local audiences.

Botswana

In October 2024, the Botswana Gambling Authority awarded 16 new licences, including 10 betting licences and 6 limited payout machine licences, signalling strong local industry growth.

As Portia Gaone Diteko, Responsible Gaming Manager and Chairperson of the BiG Africa Summit, notes, Botswana is evolving alongside other Southern African nations in iGaming. This creates new opportunities for software developers, operators, and regulators.

"Attending this summit will expose Africa to those opportunities and allow people to actually make their mark," organisers said.

What to Expect at BiG Africa Summit 2025

The summit will feature expert-led discussions, networking sessions with key decision-makers, and insights into the African market’s consumer base, regulatory landscape, and growth potential. Attendees will gain valuable strategies to strengthen their presence in Southern Africa’s booming iGaming industry.