African regulators target cross-border gaps in illegal betting at ALGA CEOs Forum 2026
Regulators are seeking stronger cooperation, data sharing and coordinated enforcement to tackle unlicensed betting across African markets.
South Africa.- African gaming regulators are seeking stronger cross-border cooperation and improved data sharing to tackle illegal online betting at the ALGA CEOs Forum 2026.
The four-day forum, running from September 1-4 in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, brings together gaming industry leaders, regulators and policymakers from across Africa.
Different licensing requirements across African jurisdictions remain a concern for regulators dealing with cross-border betting platforms. ALGA CEO Musa Mngadi said discussions are focused on aligning regulatory intentions and developing practical solutions to longstanding challenges in the industry, according to Channel Africa.
Africa’s gambling and lottery market faces pressure from rapid growth in online betting, illegal operators, inconsistent regulation, consumer protection concerns and weaknesses in responsible gambling measures.
Mngadi warned that the current growth in online gambling was not sustainable, saying gambling revenue was placing pressure on other sectors expected to make productive contributions to national economies.
He called for a coordinated approach to governance, regulation and fiscal policy, saying governments should recognise fiscal policy as a central part of effective gambling regulation.
Tackling illegal betting networks
Mngadi said any platform operating without a licence in South Africa should be regarded as illegal. Revenue generated through unlicensed platforms often leaves South Africa without contributing to taxes or public welfare, according to Mngadi.
Regulators are considering stronger enforcement measures, improved data sharing and coordinated controls to prevent illegal platforms from moving money outside African economies.
Technology could also assist authorities through measures such as blocking illegal websites. However, Mngadi said effective action would require regulatory frameworks allowing enforcement agencies to implement available technological solutions within existing laws.
Gaming Tech Summit Africa (GTSA) has also partnered with ALGA for the CEOs Forum, bringing a technology-focused industry platform into discussions involving regulation, innovation and responsible growth.
The forum includes chief executives from regulatory boards, with discussions focused on moving beyond general recommendations towards implementation and accountability.
Mngadi said agreements reached during the opening day showed progress towards coordinated action across participating jurisdictions.
ALGA wants the remaining sessions to produce accountable action plans, clearer responsibilities and practical steps for strengthening cooperation among African regulators.
