Women’s Day highlights call for stronger female leadership in African gaming
African gaming and lotteries organisations use South Africa’s National Women’s Day to highlight women’s roles in regulation, leadership, technology and industry development.
South Africa.- South Africa’s National Women’s Day has put the spotlight on women’s growing role across Africa’s gaming and lotteries industry, with industry bodies highlighting their contributions to leadership, regulation, technology, entrepreneurship and industry development.
This year marks 70 years since more than 20,000 women marched to the Union Buildings on August 9, 1956 to protest apartheid pass laws. The public holiday has been observed on Monday, August 10, as the anniversary fell on a Sunday.
The African Lotteries and Gaming Association (ALGA) said women continue to help “shape policy, strengthen institutions, advance responsible regulation, and create meaningful impact across communities throughout the continent.” Reflecting on the legacy of the 1956 Women’s March, ALGA added: “Progress is achieved when voices unite behind a shared purpose.”
The theme of influence was also central to a message from Women in Gaming Africa (WiGA), which highlighted women leading businesses, building careers, challenging convention and helping shape gaming across South Africa and the wider African industry.
WiGA said progress should extend beyond increasing the number of women entering the sector, with greater opportunity, visibility, mentorship and leadership needed. “Progress isn’t just about getting more women into the room. It’s about making sure their voices are heard when they get there,” the organisation said.
Through its Women in Gaming and Lotteries Africa (WIGLA) initiative, ALGA also highlighted women working across regulatory offices, boardrooms, gaming floors, lottery organisations and community initiatives.
WIGLA said women are contributing as regulators, executives, technology innovators, entrepreneurs and professionals. “Their leadership is not only transforming an industry; it is creating pathways for more women to enter, thrive, and influence the future of gaming and lotteries across the continent,” WIGLA said.
WIGLA CEO Annalisa Samuels said true strength begins within, rooted in “character, our convictions, and our willingness to remain authentic in every space we occupy.” She said women continue to lead with purpose, uplift others and create lasting impact across generations.
The Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB) said National Women’s Day was an opportunity to recognise the strength, resilience and contribution of women while stressing the importance of creating spaces where women are supported, respected and able to thrive.
