ALGA calls for stronger digital gaming regulation in Africa
The group questioned whether existing frameworks can keep pace with rising digital participation, and how player education can be improved without compromising privacy.
South Africa.- The African Lotteries and Gaming Association (ALGA) has highlighted the need for practical steps to strengthen regulation as digital gaming expands across the continent. In The ALGA Ledger, its weekly newsletter, the group stressed the importance of updating regulations to keep pace with rapid online growth, while protecting players, promoting fair markets and addressing cross-border challenges.
Africa’s gaming market is valued at around $2.29bn in 2026 and is expected to grow to $4.10bn by 2031, driven largely by mobile access in new markets. This growth presents opportunities but also exposes the industry to risks from offshore operators and inconsistent national regulations.
ALGA questions whether existing frameworks can keep pace with rising digital participation, whether enforcement tools are effective beyond national borders and how player education can be improved without compromising privacy.
The group sets out five core elements for effective regulation in Africa’s gambling sector. These include strengthening licensing frameworks so that only compliant operators enter the market; improving cross-border cooperation to tackle offshore platforms; promoting data-led monitoring with privacy safeguards; supporting public education on financial literacy and risk and encouraging industry accountability through transparent compliance mechanisms. These measures aim to address gaps in current systems as the industry evolves.
In earlier remarks, ALGA CEO Musa Mngadi highlighted the disconnect between traditional rules and the realities of digital gaming. He said: “We cannot continue applying land-based laws, regulations and tax regimes to a growing digital gaming market.”
Mngadi also pointed to the need for cross-border data sharing and collaboration to curb illegal activities that differ by country.
Alongside its regulatory and advocacy efforts, ALGA uses its platform to host dialogues and build cooperative networks that strengthen responsible gambling and financial behaviour.
Recent events include the BiG Africa Summit, held in February in Gaborone, Botswana, where ALGA reinforced collaboration on policy alignment and sustainable growth. At the event, Mngadi addressed the need to move beyond piecemeal talks towards coordinated cross-border efforts, including pilot sandboxes for innovations and standardised regulations.
