In a pioneering move, Crucial Compliance took the lead in addressing the repercussions of gambling in Africa. CEO Paul Foster embarked on a journey to Rwanda and South Africa to introduce “Safe Gambling Hackathons,” an innovative approach to combat gambling hazards.
The events garnered significant attention, with esteemed attendees including CEOs of betting firms, government officials, regulators, and members of the public.
The urgency to assess the escalating dangers of betting in Africa cannot be overstated. According to a report by Africa News in 2022, individuals engaged in gambling highlight its potential as a means to attain financial freedom (Africa News, 2022). A South African government survey revealed a notable 14% annual growth in sports betting from 2008 to 2016, despite a decrease in the overall number of gamblers to a third of the adult population.
This influx of gambling activity in the region emphasizes the need for player protection, prompting Crucial Compliance to take action. The organization aims to connect top betting operators in Africa with their services and foster fresh ideas from the local community. Moreover, Crucial Compliance actively engages with and supports the surrounding market sector.
More than 100 professionals attended two events hosted by Crucial in Kigali and Johannesburg. It was also supported by betting operators, Regulator teams and Local government. With the bid to grow more, Crucial will push its devotion to globalise and widen its network all through Africa and beyond.
The CEO of Crucial, Paul Foster, noted the following:
“Despite people having thoughts of venturing into Africa as futile, they’ve already strategised on exploiting the area. We have also noticed how betting can be hazardous in the popular culture. Hence, we took time to explore Rwanda and South Africa. As from previous checkings, both countries showed willingness to change in attitudes of gamblers in the industry. We look forward to working with authorities, government and operators, in affecting the society in good form. More innovative series are to come in Nigeria, Rwanda and South Africa in April. We’re inviting likeminded persons who have interest to alter the faults of gambling to be on board with us.”
