Morocco’s National Lottery Authority strengthens global gambling role in Switzerland
National Lottery Authority’s Younes El Mechrafi re-elected as only African representative, reinforcing leadership in global sports betting integrity.
Morocco.- Morocco has strengthened its influence in international gambling governance as the country’s state-run lottery and sports betting operator, La Marocaine des Jeux et des Sports (MDJS), secured another three-year term on the Executive Committee of the United Lotteries for Integrity in Sports (ULIS). The decision, made during ULIS’s General Assembly on September 16 in Switzerland, reinforces Morocco’s role in shaping global standards and tackling illegal betting.
The assembly also confirmed the reappointment of MDJS Director General Younes El Mechrafi as the sole African representative on the committee. With this renewed mandate, MDJS solidifies its influence in global sports betting integrity, working alongside members from Europe, Asia and North America to combat illegal operators and strengthen regulation.
El Mechrafi, also Vice President of the World Lottery Association (WLA), said, according to Moroccan news outlet Le7 TV: “In a context marked by the proliferation of illegal operators and the involvement of organised crime, our mission is more essential than ever. MDJS will continue to defend a responsible, transparent and united gaming model, in the service of Moroccan sport and the general interest.”
Lottery Authority tackles global betting threats
ULIS, launched in 2015 by the WLA and European Lotteries Association, was set up to police global sports betting, spot suspicious activity and combat illegal operators. Over time, it has also focused on dismantling criminal networks and promoting education and prevention initiatives. As a founding member, El Mechrafi provides a strong African voice in these efforts.
MDJS is Morocco’s only legal sports betting provider. Illegal international platforms remain a major threat, fuelling tax evasion, financial losses, addiction and organised crime.
To counter these risks, MDJS takes part in the Macolin Convention and the Copenhagen Group, working with regulators and enforcement bodies including the International Olympic Committee, FIFA, UEFA, the FBI and Interpol.
Profits from MDJS go to the National Sports Development Fund, supporting sports infrastructure, federations, athletes and national competitions.
Through its renewed ULIS mandate, Morocco confirms its leadership in responsible, transparent and cooperative gambling regulation both across Africa and globally.
