LONACI-backed national platform launched to combat illegal gambling in Côte d’Ivoire
Government approves public-private partnership to centralise all LONACI-regulated games, enhance oversight and curb illegal gambling.
Côte d’Ivoire.- The government of Côte d’Ivoire has taken a major step to strengthen regulation of the country’s gambling sector. At its Council of Ministers on October 1, a decree was adopted approving a public-private partnership (PPP) contract with AFITECH CI to establish a national centralisation platform for the regulation of games of chance, concessioned to the National Lottery of Côte d’Ivoire (LONACI).
The decree was published on the Presidency of Côte d’Ivoire’s official website, providing an authoritative account of government decisions and policies announced during the Council of Ministers meeting.
The communication states: “The Council adopted the decree approving the Public-Private Partnership Contract for the Financing, Design, Supply, Implementation and Operation of a Centralisation Platform for the Operation and Regulation of games granted to LONACI. This decree approves the agreement signed with the operator AFITECH CI and commits its implementation in accordance with the legislation in force regarding Public-Private Partnership Contracts.”
A report by Le Mandat Express described the platform as “a new national centralisation platform for games of chance licensed to LONACI”, with objectives including strengthening oversight of monetary flows, protecting minors, combating illicit gambling and preventing gambling addiction.
Rapid growth and digital boom in gambling
The move comes amid rapid growth in the gambling sector. Estimates from LONACI and industry operators place the 2025 sports betting market at CFA50bn (€76m), with annual growth exceeding 15 per cent since 2022.
The accelerated digitalisation of the gambling sector has transformed how players engage with games, a trend noted by industry experts. Sidick Bakayoko, Founder of Paradise Game, said: “Today, online betting attracts more and more consumers, mainly because of its accessibility. Thanks to digital technology, it is easier and faster to place bets. Players even feel they have more control over their choices compared to traditional games of chance.”
The LONACI Foundation continues to invest in social initiatives. In October 2025, it distributed FCFA900m (€1.37m) to support 16 community projects, including health and water infrastructure, demonstrating the lottery’s contribution to social development.
