Malawian gaming regulator hosts workshop on new gaming rules
Operators are urged to run awareness campaigns to educate the public about gambling risks.
Malawi.- The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) is stepping up its regulatory oversight to ensure gaming operators adhere to the rules governing the country’s betting industry.
On March 10 through 12, the MAGLA hosted a three-day workshop in Mangochi to update stakeholders and promote compliance with the newly introduced gaming regulations in the country.
The event brought together operators, media representatives and other key stakeholders from the gaming and lottery industry. It enabled them to discuss and understand their obligations under the new rules.
During the workshop, Rachel Mijiga, MAGLA’s director general, stressed the need for operators to comply with regulations, especially those focusing on the protection of minors. She classified minors as under-18s and emphasised that they must not be allowed to enter gambling premises or take part in gambling.
Mijiga said: “This regulation is non-negotiable. We are taking a firm stand against exposing children to gambling. Anyone found contravening this law will face serious consequences, including an individual fine of K20 million.”
The new regulations cover areas such as sports betting, national lottery, player protection, online gaming, advertising and electronic monitoring.
Under the new rules, operators are urged to run awareness campaigns to educate the public, especially the youth, about gambling risks. They are also mandated to integrate with MAGLA’s new electronic monitoring system to ensure greater transparency and compliance.
Charles Piri, Betway’s chief operations officer, welcomed the new regulations. He said: “We fully welcome these developments. Betway is committed to complying with the new regulations, and we will ensure our staff is thoroughly trained on the new rules.”
