Eswatini MulaSport betting licence renewed under ongoing oversight
MulaSport Betting’s licence has been renewed in Eswatini while the ACC reviews a R300m (€15.6m) transaction, highlighting a regulated and transparent gambling sector.
Eswatini.- MulaSport Betting has secured the renewal of its operating licence from Eswatini’s Gaming Board, even as the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) reviews a financial transaction linked to the company.
The Gaming Board reportedly travelled to Nelspruit, South Africa, three weeks ago, where they met MulaSport Director Khaya Magagula. They returned and approved the licence renewal. “When asked why they met the MulaSport Director in Nelpruit, they claimed it was a coincidence,” according to the Swaziland News.
The renewal comes amid an ACC investigation into a financial transaction exceeding R300m (€15.6m). Maphevu Mkhatjwa, Acting Commissioner of the ACC, wrote to Khangeziwe Mabuza, then Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, requesting MulaSport Betting’s accounts for review.
A letter cited by Swaziland News states: “The Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) is conducting an investigation pertaining the allegations of corruption connected to MulaSport Betting. In terms of Section 11 and 13 of the Prevention of Corruption Act 3 of 2006 (POCA), you are kindly requested to assist and provide us with the Management accounts of MulaSport Betting (Pty) Ltd as per your terms and conditions, company accounts 4.3. for the period year 2024.”
Probe continues amid licence renewal
As the licence was renewed, the ACC continues its review of the transaction linked to MulaSport Betting.
The flagged transaction prompted action by the Central Bank of Eswatini (CBE), which alerted both the ACC and the Eswatini Financial Intelligence Unit (EFIU). This shows the financial oversight built into the country’s regulated gambling sector.
Khaya Magagula, MulaSport Betting Director, said: “I am not aware of the investigation.” Documents indicate that Clement Sihlongonyane and corruption detective Henson Mavimbela are leading the team reviewing MulaSport Betting. Their work ensures the company complies with regulatory standards.
While the investigation continues, the renewal of MulaSport Betting’s licence shows that Eswatini supports a legal and well-regulated gambling industry, allowing licensed operators to continue under supervision and protecting public confidence in gaming.
