GRAF invites entries for 2026 Regulatory Excellence Awards
Regulators applying for the award must provide examples of initiatives, programmes or achievements implemented during the past two years, together with evidence of their impact.
Mozambique.- The Gaming Regulators Africa Forum (GRAF) has opened nominations for its inaugural Regulatory Excellence Awards 2026, inviting regulators, operators, suppliers, technology providers and other gaming stakeholders across Africa to submit entries.
The awards, which opened for nominations on July 3, recognise individuals, organisations and initiatives that have demonstrated leadership, innovation and excellence in gaming regulation across the continent. Nominations close on July 31 at 18:00 SAST.
According to GRAF, the awards highlight contributions to regulatory excellence, responsible gambling, player protection, integrity, industry development and cross-border cooperation within Africa’s gaming sector.
The winners will be announced during the GRAF Gala Dinner and Regulatory Excellence Awards Ceremony on September 17, as part of the GRAF 2026 Conference in Mozambique. Finalists are expected to be announced on August 31.
Among the nine award categories is the Regulatory Excellence Award, which is presented to a gaming regulatory authority that has demonstrated leadership, governance, innovation and effective oversight of gaming activities within its jurisdiction.
Regulators applying for the award must provide examples of initiatives, programmes or achievements implemented during the past two years, together with evidence of their impact. GRAF said judges will assess entries based on factors including regulatory leadership, governance, player protection initiatives, stakeholder engagement, regulatory innovation and measurable outcomes.
Other categories include the Responsible Gambling Excellence Awards for regulators, operators and organisations, the Regulatory Innovation Award, African Regulatory Cooperation Award, Industry Contribution Award, Leadership Excellence Award and Emerging Leader Award.
GRAF said nominations may be submitted by individuals, organisations, regulatory authorities, industry stakeholders or through self-nomination. After nominations close, an Awards Committee will review submissions, verify eligibility and develop a shortlist before shortlisted nominees are invited to submit supporting evidence for assessment by an independent judging panel.
According to the awards guide, nominees must operate within, or demonstrate an impact on, Africa’s gaming sector and comply with applicable laws, regulations and licensing requirements in their respective jurisdictions. Achievements submitted for most categories must have been implemented or have demonstrated significant impact within the 24 months preceding the nomination deadline.
GRAF said the awards were established to promote innovation, strengthen regulatory cooperation, encourage responsible gambling and showcase initiatives that contribute to a safe and sustainable gaming sector across Africa.
